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The Yards Karāpiro

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The Yards Karāpiro

Cambridge, Waikato


The Yards Karāpiro is just 10 minutes from Cambridge and half an hour from Hamilton in the Waikato.

Nestled among beautiful trees with sweeping views to Maungakawa in the distance, The Yards Karāpiro offers a peaceful retreat where rural charm meets comfort.

This beautifully decorated tiny home features a fully equipped kitchen, cosy bedroom with an ensuite bathroom and space to simply chill. But the real luxury lies outside—soak in the outdoor bath under the stars, unwind in the Panorama Sauna, or gather around the outdoor fire to toast marshmallows.

Wander the property’s walkways alongside tranquil ponds, climb to the top for sunrise views, or relax on the large front deck with your morning coffee. Challenge friends to a game of kubb, fire up the Weber BBQ, and let the peace and quiet work its magic.

Just a five-minute walk from Lake Karāpiro and less than ten minutes' drive from Cambridge, you’re perfectly positioned to explore—or stay put and soak in the serenity.

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Eating and drinking near Escape

EATING AND DRINKING

The Yards Karāpiro is self-catering. Please bring your own food and drink, and use the 2-burner gas hob and Weber BBQ provided to cook your meals. You'll find all the cutlery, crockery, pots and pans that you'll need.

Podium Cafe is just a five minute walk from the cabin and overlooks Lake Karāpiro.

Cambridge's food scene has something for every taste. Kick off your morning with a hot cuppa at Paddock, St Kilda Café, or Daydream Espresso. When hunger strikes, settle in for Italian at Alpino, enjoy a meal at The Clements Hotel, or grab something delicious from Hanoi Boy or Pijja's Food Truck.

The nearest store for stocking up on food and supplies is in Cambridge, just 10 minutes away.

Things to do near Escape

THINGS TO DO

Begin your escape right here on the property. Wander through regenerated farmland where decades of tree planting have created a sanctuary for native birdlife. Follow winding paths through thousands of trees, and find a quiet spot beneath the shelter belts to watch sunsets paint the sky.

Lake Karāpiro is just a five-minute walk away, offering kayaking, boating, cycling, and fishing. If you prefer, simply relax at the tiny home, gather around the campfire, unwind in the sauna, or enjoy games like kubb and a selection of board games.

Just 10 minutes away, Cambridge offers country charm with its Saturday Farmers Market in the Town Square, perfect for a weekend visit. Nature lovers will love the Maungatautari Mountain Ecological Sanctuary. Venture further to discover Hamilton Gardens (30 minutes), the immersive Hobbiton movie set tour(40 minutes), Mount Maunganui's beach and lifestyle experiences (90 minutes), or Raglan's world-class surf, vibrant arts, and exceptional dining (90 minutes). Each destination brings its own magic, but you'll always be glad to return to the sanctuary of The Yards.

Your hosts at Escape

YOUR HOSTS

Your hosts at The Yards Karāpiro are Grant and Nicky, along with Nicky's parents, Paul and Lynne, and their beloved lab furbabies, Milo and Coco.

Paul and Lynne are earthmoving contractors who purchased this dry stock farm in the mid-90s, transforming it into a sanctuary through Paul's dedication to planting thousands of trees and restoring biodiversity. Nicky works in events and experiences, while Grant brings his psychology background to their hospitality. Together, this family has created a space where farming and environmental care thrive side by side, and they're passionate about sharing the magic of their land with visitors and the wider Garland whānau.

TESTIMONIALS

“ Beautiful, restful and had everything we needed for a wonderful weekend away. ”

Lionel Town- 2026-01-07

7 / 7

“ We lucked out with the weather. Beautiful autumnal days while we were there, had that magic feel. A very pleasant change of scenery. ”

Robson McWilliams- 2026-05-20

1 / 7

“ This is the most gorgeous tiny home in beautiful surroundings. So much thoughtful detail in everything, luxurious bedding, comfortable sofa, the highest quality soaps and towels. The outdoor sauna and bathtub were a real highlight, and we made good use of both of these during our stay. Loved the tranquility and hearing nothing but the mooing of cows in the distance, it was so relaxing. Nicky was an excellent host, and we appreciated how welcome she made us feel throughout our stay, always a text message away if we needed anything. Our only regret was not booking it for another night, next time we will stay longer! ”

Claudia Holland- 2026-04-20

2 / 7

“ The Yards Karapiro was absolutely gorgeous. The accommodation was beautifully appointed and had all the amenities we required. My husband used the sauna while I soaked in the outdoor bath. So relaxing and private. ”

Trudi Gatland- 2026-03-14

3 / 7

“ An absolutely great location. Peaceful, tranquil, and yet only few minutes to Cambridge. The sauna is an awesome touch. ”

Shaun Biesiek- 2026-03-10

4 / 7

“ Nice and quiet area. Booked for a weekend away for some quiet time and it was perfect. ”

Naomi Chuzu- 2026-02-28

5 / 7

“ Amazing stay! Gorgeous space and super relaxing. We loved it so much. ”

Maria Vella- 2026-02-22

6 / 7

“ Beautiful, restful and had everything we needed for a wonderful weekend away. ”

Lionel Town- 2026-01-07

7 / 7

“ We lucked out with the weather. Beautiful autumnal days while we were there, had that magic feel. A very pleasant change of scenery. ”

Robson McWilliams- 2026-05-20

1 / 7

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

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