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Iona Tiny House

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Iona Tiny House

Putiki, Manawatū-Whanganui


Iona Tiny House is 2 hours and 15 minutes from Wellington, 5.5 – 6 hours from Auckland and about 2 hours from New Plymouth.

Set in Whanganui on the banks of the Whanganui River, Iona Tiny House is a relaxing and tranquil haven, whilst at the same time, just a 5-10 minutes walk to the restaurants and bars on Victoria Ave. A stay here offers something a little different from our usual remote locations - a true 'city escape'.

A labour of love by the owner, a local architect, Iona Tiny House is completely unique. Made from the timber hull of the historic vessel, Iona, every luxury and modern convenience has been considered. There’s a cedar hot tub for an outdoor soak under the stars and a tiny wood burner for cosying up on a winter's night. A queen-size bed is positioned perfectly for watching the river meander past.

Iona Tiny House is a place to relax, be comfortable, read, walk, sit with a glass of wine or soak in the hot tub with your beloved, watching the pretty city lights.

Iona Tiny House has been recognised with a Silver Qualmark rating from Tourism New Zealand.

Children aged 12+ only

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Eating and drinking near Escape

EATING AND DRINKING

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

A short stroll takes you to lower Victoria Avenue, the dining heart of Whanganui. Choose from a range of restaurants and bars set among beautiful heritage buildings — you’ll find your hosts’ favourites in the in-house guide. The art deco Embassy Theatre is nearby with a great movie line-up, and live music spots like Lucky and the monthly Musicians’ Club are within easy walking distance. Back at Iona, enjoy the outdoor fire or make use of the fully equipped kitchen.

For more host recommendations: grab excellent burgers and chips from REBurger on your way, or head to Burrow Cellars... a fabulous new wine bar just five minutes from the boathouse, across the river. Their platters and river views are worth the visit. If you’re here on a Saturday, don’t miss the Riverside Market for fresh sourdough, cheeses, meats and other local treats. There’s also a nearby supermarket for essentials. And if you’re after top-notch sourdough, Frank on Ridgway Street now holds the local crown (best to visit before 3 pm).

The nearest supermarket for supplies is the Countdown on the corner of Cnr Taupo Quay & Wilson Street, - a 15-minute stroll away.

Things to do near Escape

THINGS TO DO

Set close to the action (just a 5-10 minute walk to Whanganui's old town, Victoria Ave) Iona Tiny House is near enough to enjoy the action of the town but has the feel of a tranquil riverside retreat.

Whanganui is an old town steeped in Maori and Pakeha history. Whether you’re a visitor to New Zealand or a Kiwi needing a recharge, there's plenty to discover. From the iconic Sarjeant Gallery to the Maori influence at nearby St Pauls Church, to the excellent cafes, restaurants and boutique shops - there's something for everyone!

For active relaxers, enjoy the popular ‘round the bridges’ stroll, book a cruise upriver on the historic paddle steamer ‘Waimarie’ (pronounce Wai-mah-ree-ay) or get onto the river (you'll find information in the in-house guide). The tiny house sits right on the Mountains to Sea Cycle Trail – so bring your bikes, or hire an e-bike at the cycle hire opposite the house and explore.

For relaxer relaxers, just while away the hours on the deck, watching the river flow by and taking in the vibe of this uniquely designed and crafted little building. Soak in the hot tub, watch the sunset and dive into Iona’s carefully curated book and magazine collection.

Your hosts at Escape

YOUR HOSTS

When Hamish McDouall, born and bred in Wanganui, brought Aucklander Elinor back to his home town, magic started to happen. Two kids, a mayoralty, and a thriving architectural practice later, they are absolute converts to small city life. They love the ease, the way the community runs on relationships and trust and seeing Whanganui find its feet as a creative, historic town.

Elinor has enjoyed every minute of the Iona journey and is looking forward to seeing others fall in love too. ‘Welcome to Iona, and welcome home to our beautiful town on the awa’.

TESTIMONIALS

“ Such a peaceful place. I loved lying on the bed in the sun with a cup of tea and some nibbles, watching the world go by. It was very much needed. I'm so glad I stayed here for my Wanganui trip this year. ”

Sarah-Jane Bell- 2025-09-07

20 / 20

“ It felt like a private haven bathed in northern sun surrounded by bush and close to the river, but it was an easy, pleasant walk to the Sarjeant Art Gallery. ”

Rob cherry- 2026-04-14

1 / 20

“ They are some comfy deck chairs! Everything was wonderful, cleanliness was to a high standard, and the decor was tasteful. Would definitely stay here again and will reccomend to friends and family. Thanks Elinor and Hamish! ”

Katarina Alexopoulos- 2026-04-07

2 / 20

“ Tiny house with a huge warm character. ”

Martin Schuetz- 2026-03-26

3 / 20

“ Just the right size for two in a private and peaceful setting. ”

Nancy Marsh- 2026-03-20

4 / 20

“ Iona Tiny House is a unique, creative project that is also comfortable and cosy. The riverside setting is stunning and made snug with the cedar spa pool and inside fire. ”

Wendy Laurenson- 2026-03-12

5 / 20

“ A unique stay where every little detail has been thoughtfully considered. ”

KIRSTY GARDINER- 2026-03-06

6 / 20

“ Iona Tiny House was just fabulous. It was just as it appeared on the website. It’s a unique and special place, we loved every minute of our stay. We’ll be back to stay again!! ”

Lisa Pugh- 2026-02-28

7 / 20

“ Iona Tiny House was incredible, so relaxing and tucked away by the river in the middle of a city. It has great amenities, river views, outdoor bath and a quirky but very cool and liveable tiny house. We're looking forward to staying again. ”

Rachel Sleigh- 2026-02-23

8 / 20

“ Perfect place to rest, relax and explore the lovely town of Whanganui and the surrounding area. Our first experience of a tiny home, we had a delightful time and will hopefully return in the future. ”

Sue Aitken- 2026-02-14

9 / 20

“ Very much enjoyed our stay at Iona Tiny House. The facilities were great, the location excellent, both the proximity to the Wanganui River and the short walk into the restaurants and bars on Victoria Avenue. The design aspects of Iona were wonderful. ”

Paul Brydges- 2026-02-05

10 / 20

“ Iona Tiny House is unique and quite special. It's beautifully and very cleverly architecturally designed and in such a lovely, private place looking out over the river. For us, celebrating a wedding anniversary, this could not have been better. Absolutely ten out of ten!! ”

Margaret Vial- 2026-01-28

11 / 20

“ This is a quirky beautifully designed space that has everything you need and that little bit more. Definitely recommend. ”

Kiya Nancarrow- 2026-01-24

12 / 20

“ Iona is more than just accommodation. It is heart and soul and uniqueness all tied together with refinement and comfort. We loved our weekend stay and can’t rate it highly enough. ”

Angie O’Dea- 2026-01-13

13 / 20

“ We loved our stay at Iona Tiny House. It's such a stunning home with great character. The views and location are beautiful. Communication with our host was great. We highly recommend Iona House. Thank you so much. ”

Shaia Twomey- 2026-01-03

14 / 20

“ We loved our stay at Iona Tiny House. It is a very unique and quirky property, nestled beautifully into its surroundings. ”

Anna Pfister-Tatton- 2025-11-19

15 / 20

“ Peaceful retreat overlooking the river, perfect for unwinding with a book or watching the river go by, all within easy walking distance of shops and restaurants. ”

Andrew Hilson- 2025-11-10

16 / 20

“ Perfect place to escape and ground yourself. Away from the hustle but close enough to town and what Whanganui has to offer. ”

Megan Wereta- 2025-11-04

17 / 20

“ Iona Tiny House is such a magical spot. The view and the house are beautiful and the house is so thoughtful. The bath outside is stunning and the space is super private. Loved the stay! ”

Sophie Horgan- 2025-10-07

18 / 20

“ Wonderful stay, beautiful little place! Great spot so close to town. Highly recommend. ”

Eve Wereta- 2025-09-16

19 / 20

“ Such a peaceful place. I loved lying on the bed in the sun with a cup of tea and some nibbles, watching the world go by. It was very much needed. I'm so glad I stayed here for my Wanganui trip this year. ”

Sarah-Jane Bell- 2025-09-07

20 / 20

“ It felt like a private haven bathed in northern sun surrounded by bush and close to the river, but it was an easy, pleasant walk to the Sarjeant Art Gallery. ”

Rob cherry- 2026-04-14

1 / 20

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