Skip to main content
Escape gallery image 1

Black Rocks Retreat

Escape badge

Black Rocks Retreat

Awhitu Penninsula, Auckland


Black Rocks Retreat is a one-hour drive from Auckland and 15 minutes from Waiuku on the Awhitu Peninsula.

Surrounded by farmland and rolling hills, the fully self-contained luxury cabin is set on the edge of Manukau Harbour - with stunning views across the water to the city of Auckland in the distance.

A beautifully styled bedroom has a king-size bed and ensuite bathroom. The kitchen and living area open out to a superb alfresco living space, with a large deck and comfortable outdoor sofa to relax in the evening. A thoughtfully landscaped outdoor bath is the perfect place to while away an hour or two.

A short walk through farmland takes you to the beach where you can jump in the kayaks for a paddle around the shoreline, or just enjoy an evening stroll along the shore.

Watching the sunrise across the water in the morning from your bed, and hearing the seabirds on the foreshore will make you feel a world away from the city action. Black Rocks Retreat is a restful escape from everyday life.

Includes Kayaks

Escape gallery image 19 Escape gallery image 2 Escape gallery image 3 Escape gallery image 4 Escape gallery image 5 Escape gallery image 6 Escape gallery image 7 Escape gallery image 8 Escape gallery image 9 Escape gallery image 10 Escape gallery image 11 Escape gallery image 12 Escape gallery image 13 Escape gallery image 14 Escape gallery image 15 Escape gallery image 16 Escape gallery image 17 Escape gallery image 18 Escape gallery image 19 Escape gallery image 2
Eating and drinking near Escape

EATING AND DRINKING

Black Rocks Retreat is self-catering. Just bring your own food and drink, and cook meals using the kitchen facilities and BBQ provided. You'll find all the cutlery, crockery, pots and pans that you'll need.

If you want a break from cooking at any stage, Waiuku is just a 15-minute drive away. Your hosts recommend The Kentish Hotel (New Zealand's oldest licenced hotel), Malt N Steel or Fitzy's for fish and chips.

Waiuku has a New World Supermarket for stocking up on supplies.

Things to do near Escape

THINGS TO DO

With a restful water view, board games to play, kayaks to paddle, an outdoor tub to soak in, and farmland to wander - you'll appreciate the chance to just relax and take in the vibes right there at the property.

A short walk through farmland takes you down to the beach. Enjoy a stroll at sunset.

If you're looking to explore, visit the West Coast beaches or the Manukau Heads Lighthouse. The Awhitu Regional Park offers plenty of great walking - or if you fancy something a bit more sedate, try a tasting at Awhitu Wines!

Your hosts at Escape

YOUR HOSTS

Your hosts at Black Rocks Retreat are John Renall and Deb Dragt. They are the parents of five children and grandparents of 11 grandchildren.

John and Deb are the 4th generation of the family to farm the land, which is steeped in history. John's Great Grandfather Joseph Alfred Renall (Mayor of Masterton) moved to the property in 1906 with 8 of his children.

John is a hay contractor, beef farmer and operator of large machinery - and Deb is in charge of hospitality, cleaning and taking care of the beautiful gardens on the property.

Deb and John love the stunning views of the Manukau Harbour and its ever-changing moods, the rolling hills of the Awhitu Peninsula and the peace and quiet of rural living. Setting up a special glamping retreat to share this magical spot has been a dream of Deb's for years - finally realised with Black Rocks Retreat.

Black Rocks Retreat is named for the black rocks that can be seen when the tide goes out, the result of a volcanic eruption many years ago.

TESTIMONIALS

“ Absolutely stunning spot to kick back and relax for a weekend. Hosts are lovely and the view is outstanding. Highly recommend. ”

Nick O'Hagan- 2025-08-11

20 / 20

“ Loved the bath and setting. ”

Neil Olsen- 2026-05-18

1 / 20

“ We stayed there on a spontaneous overnight trip where we both needed a mini staycation getaway. The setting and space was perfect for just that. The hosts were very accommodating. We utilised everything that came with the property. A sunset outdoor bath, stargazing on the grass and an early morning sunrise kayak in perfect conditions. I would highly recommend this place for anyone looking for a moment to relax, breathe some fresh air and get outdoors. ”

Jessica Hamilton- 2026-05-16

2 / 20

“ Thank you so much for our two day escape. It was lovely looking over the water, just beautiful. It was great to do nothing. ”

Juanita Duncan- 2026-05-11

3 / 20

“ Your slice of paradise truly is amazing. The views over the Manukau Harbour are absolutely stunning, with boats drifting by and planes gliding overhead adding something special to the experience. Waking up to the sound of tūī and watching the sunrise from bed was pure magic. It’s peaceful, relaxing, and exactly what a getaway should be. We loved every moment and can’t wait to return. ”

Ashley Hutchins- 2026-05-05

4 / 20

“ What a great spot! Only an hour away from Auckland city, but so serene. I would visit again. Highly recommend. Oh yeah, the outdoor bath was great too! ”

Baden Woodman- 2026-04-18

5 / 20

“ This is an excellent place to stay while exploring an area close to Auckland, but not that well known. The host and facilities are top notch. ”

james Mark Jennings- 2026-04-09

6 / 20

“ Black Rocks Retreat was absolutely stunning, a beautiful space where you can truly relax and unwind. It feels peaceful and tucked away from the city, yet it’s still close enough to town for anything you might need. The bed was incredibly comfortable, and the shower was amazing, but the real standout was the outdoor bath. Spending the morning soaking, reading, and taking in the view was unforgettable. We honestly couldn’t fault our experience, highly recommend. ”

Haylee Dumbar- 2026-04-06

7 / 20

“ Black Rocks Retreat is set in a stunning location and only an hour away from Auckland. We were impressed with the whole setup and will definitely be visiting again. ”

Maddy Lehman- 2026-04-03

8 / 20

“ We met John as we checked in, and he was very friendly and gave us lots of great recommendations of stuff to do. The location was fantastic, and it was great to sit outside and enjoy the scenery. ”

Alex Kirk- 2026-03-19

9 / 20

“ Black Rocks Retreat is so underrated. We had an amazing weekend away with lots to see and do around. Manukau Lighthouse and Awhitu Wines nearby are worth the drive! ”

Ariane Ormsby- 2026-03-15

10 / 20

“ We loved our stay. So beautiful and peaceful, great for a romantic getaway. We will be back. ”

Owen Minchington- 2026-03-07

11 / 20

“ The location, view, and amenities were perfect. A great place to relax before flying back home. ”

Mitchel Morales- 2026-02-08

12 / 20

“ What a stunning place to relax and unwind! So private and well equipped, just need to work out how to control the weather! I’ll be back for sure. ”

Leah Johnson- 2026-01-22

13 / 20

“ Loved it. ”

Jeremy Hoskin- 2026-01-19

14 / 20

“ The place was cosy with an amazing view. It had all the necessities required. The host John, was kind and welcoming. Overall, it was an amazing experience and we can’t wait to go back! ”

Nehal Sunil- 2026-01-10

15 / 20

“ Black Rocks Retreat was exactly what I needed. I have a very stressful and demanding job in Auckland and wanted an immediate escape close to home where I really felt like I could switch off, relax, and forget about everything at home. John, the host, was very welcoming and very knowledgeable on the property and what to do in the area, which was helpful. The cabin has absolutely everything you need, the detail is impressive, and the views and setting are simply stunning. I will definitely be back and have recommended it to many of my colleagues, clients, and friends. ”

Dean Tuffley- 2026-01-09

16 / 20

“ Stunning location with everything you need. Friendly, helpful hosts who have thought of everything. ”

Martin Fergusson- 2025-10-30

17 / 20

“ Absolutely beautiful from the moment we arrived. Everything was perfect. ”

Megan Van Lieshout- 2025-10-11

18 / 20

“ Amazing experience. ”

Hannah Rooney- 2025-08-19

19 / 20

“ Absolutely stunning spot to kick back and relax for a weekend. Hosts are lovely and the view is outstanding. Highly recommend. ”

Nick O'Hagan- 2025-08-11

20 / 20

“ Loved the bath and setting. ”

Neil Olsen- 2026-05-18

1 / 20

Scenic coastal landscape viewed through a golden tent opening, showing lush green hillside with forest line meeting turquoise ocean waters under clear blue sky

BROWSE OUR COLLECTION

Relax. Unplug. Savour a unique holiday experience. A secret weekend escape.

A family holiday.

Whatever the reason, let nature back in – go glamping!

Find your escape