If I could think of the perfect accommodation for a country girl or really anyone for that matter it’d have to be something away from the city and a rural feel. Birds chirping and animals grazing in paddocks. Something cozy and farm like but also surrounded by mountains and some sort of body of water…
Not too much to ask is it?
Well, apparently not because a very talented man, with an excellent sense of humour, was one step ahead of the game. Stuart Wright-Stow thinks big and outside the box. He combined all those wonderful things, added some imagination and funk, going against the grain and creating something super unique called Silo stay.
A building that I once associated with everything bad in life back in the days of grain farming—hot, muggy, dusty, those who have cleaned grain bins will understand, was taken and turned into a cozy and fun retreat to kick back and relax.
Located in Little River on the Banks Peninsula you couldn’t miss the silos even if you tried. When I first saw them a year or so back, I think I thought someone was selling grain bins. The idea of staying in one never dawned on me. Fast forward and there I was making tea, relaxing and journaling my thoughts in the upstairs of one.
There are 9 silos in the complex of corrugated iron. All with a fully functional kitchen, bathroom and a queen bed making it the perfect getaway! The silos are filled with bright blues, greens, oranges and reds. Funky colours that turn your head and put a smile on your face.
Visually these buildings are a work of art and are taken one step further using eco-friendly systems for lighting, water heating, and waste. They simply are the coolest units and its one of those things you have to go and experience for yourself.
The silos and the location are not to be missed. Little River is the gateway to the Banks Peninsula and the perfect spot to base yourself when exploring the area.
My stay was absolutely wonderful. It pretty much rained the whole time and the next morning I woke up to gale force winds leaving outdoor exploring of the area unfortunately off the list. Instead, I brewed some tea and read through Travel New Zealand magazines. I made dinner and cozied up under the down comforter before I got too hot (the silos stay nice and warm), laid on the feather pillows, watched a movie and fell asleep. It was a special stay for me, taking me back to my country roots. I can’t wait to go back.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
- Spark users have full coverage in the area and Vodaphone can be a bit patchy. Don’t worry though the silos do have wifi!
- A code to get your silo key is emailed to you but there is staff at the facility to assist you with whatever you need!
- there is a small shop behind the cafe, located right next to the Silos where you can get deli food, grocery items and alcohol for your stay
- there are lots of things to do and see in Little River and the exploring area! Check it out here
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This is so cool! New Zealand is definitely on the top of our list.
That’s awesome to hear! It’s so beautiful! If you need help planning let me know!