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Wild Ridge

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Wild Ridge

Wellsford, Auckland


Wild Ridge is situated just one hour north of Auckland City.

Wild Ridge stretches along a ridge line of the Dome Valley, boasting breathtaking 360° views of regenerating native bush and ocean vistas of the Hen and Chicken Islands - and even the Poor Knights Islands on a clear day.

The beautiful ark-style cabin is spread over two floors, ideal for a family of four or couples. Unwind in the open-plan living area or head upstairs to the bedrooms with a plush queen-size bed and pull-out sofa bed. The upstairs window is a lovely spot to watch the clouds roll by. To really set the mood, explore the collection of vinyl records on the record player, blast tunes from the outdoor speakers and set the mood with the fully customisable LED lighting.

Outside, you'll find a lovely bath and a private sheltered shower and seating area, offering a refreshing alfresco experience to watch the sunset. Just a few steps away is a gazebo, the prime spot for watching the sunrise. While the ridge-top location provides stunning views and a serene sense of seclusion, it also means the property is sometimes exposed to the elements, including windier conditions (adding to the wild charm!)

The area is also teeming with wildlife, with rare insects and birds calling this place home, with plenty of options for beautiful walks amongst nature right on your doorstep.

An ideal retreat for city dwellers, Wild Ridge offers a quick and peaceful escape into an untamed paradise.

Children aged 5+ only

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Eating and drinking near Escape

EATING AND DRINKING

Wild Ridge is self-catering. Just bring your own food and drink, and cook meals using the four-burner gas cooktop, oven and gas BBQ provided. You'll find all the cutlery, crockery, pots and pans that you'll need.

If you're in the mood for dining out, Matakana is just a 30-minute drive away with plenty of dining and cafe options to choose from - including Smiths. Leigh is a 40-minute drive and another great region to visit, with the Sawmill Cafe highly recommended for a small bite and a cup of coffee. In Warkworth, 20 minutes away, try Bam Boo Asian Canteen, Aldo's Italian or the Warkworth Hotel (dine in a beautifully renovated 1862 building!).

The nearest store for stocking up on food and supplies is in Wellsford, 12 minutes away.

Things to do near Escape

THINGS TO DO

Unwind with a soak in the outdoor bath or a refreshing outdoor shower, all while listening to your favourite tunes on the outdoor speakers. Inside is a collection of records to play on the vinyl record player. A large selection of board games and puzzles are also provided.

Wild Ridge is set on a 33 hectare property with access to walking tracks through the Dome Valley. If you choose to explore, a decent level of fitness is required.

Once you're at Wild Ridge, it's likely you won't feel like leaving the tranquillity. But if you do, Te Ārai is only a 20-minute drive away and offers pristine white sandy beaches. The Saturday Markets at Matakana and Mangawhai are a wholesome experience, as are the Kaipara Regional Parks.

TESTIMONIALS

“ Absolutely stunning setting and place on top of the hill! Wind down with vinyl records, the outdoor tub and all the amenities you need. Great 360-degree views and the perfect spot to watch the sunset. Super friendly host too! Can highly recommend to anyone! ”

Karri Hurskainen- 2025-03-13

20 / 20

“ Stunning view and a peaceful atmosphere. The space was well designed. ”

Ariana Yen- 2026-05-19

1 / 20

“ We absolutely loved our stay at Wild Ridge. A glorious view and the tiny house had everything we needed. We would love to stay there again. ”

Laurel Devenie- 2026-05-08

2 / 20

“ Wild Ridge is such an exquisite place! The panoramic views are epic and the sunsets are stunning! The cabin itself is very clean and well maintained. I can tell the host genuinely cared for the experience of the guests and that every detail in this place was carefully thought out. The bench on the deck overlooking the river below was a nice touch. My family really enjoyed our time here and we got to spend quality time. ”

Anna Riddell- 2026-03-05

3 / 20

“ Family glamping done right. We had the most magical stay at Wild Ridge Canopy Camping — fresh mountain air, cosy luxury, and those priceless family moments that make everything worthwhile. It truly felt like our own private paradise up on the ridge. Peaceful, elegant, and perfectly relaxing from start to finish. The booking process was completely hassle-free, and the whole experience exceeded expectations. This hidden gem (just an hour north of Auckland) is a must for anyone craving nature with a touch of luxe. Highly recommend, we’ll be back! ”

Allan Vivero- 2026-02-05

4 / 20

“ Perfection all round ! Not enough words to state how magical this place is. ”

Chenelle Thorne- 2026-02-02

5 / 20

“ Great location, awesome views and also just a great vibe. ”

Quintin Norbruis- 2026-01-12

6 / 20

“ An incredible off-grid getaway for our family of four, where we had a truly relaxing stay with the stunning view, outdoor bath, record player and fun lighting set up. Would definitely stay again! ”

Emily Cheng- 2026-01-08

7 / 20

“ Beautiful stay and lovely attention to detail throughout the home. Thank you! ”

Samantha Cortes- 2025-12-05

8 / 20

“ A nice little cabin on the hill with the best views. A nice spot for a weekend getaway if you're wanting to rest and relax. Very peaceful and so nice hearing the sounds of nature. ”

Courtney Palmer- 2025-11-10

9 / 20

“ We had an amazing weekend, awesome location and facilities, we intend to book again soon! ”

Martin Richards- 2025-10-14

10 / 20

“ Awesome views and cosy cabin. ”

Jon Walters- 2025-10-01

11 / 20

“ Trying to think of another excuse to come back and enjoy the place in summer. Loved the vinyl collection and epic sound system set-up. This made our stay extra memorable. We explored the property and soaked off in the outdoor bath. Everything was there to enjoy, no need to go anywhere. The bed was 10/10 and super warm. Thank you. ”

Margaret Ling- 2025-08-12

12 / 20

“ Special and remote location with grand views of farmland and rolling hills. Unique accommodation and very cosy. Great sound system. A short drive from Auckland makes a great excuse for a weekend getaway. ”

Alan Wong- 2025-07-31

13 / 20

“ We enjoyed staying at Wild Ridge with our kids, even if it was just one night. Loved how remote and peaceful the place was. Loved the decor and the facilities as well. We highly recommend it to couples and families with kids. ”

Yvonne Abuyabor- 2025-06-15

14 / 20

“ We felt like we were on top of the world. The views were amazing. The outdoor amenities with the covered seating area and the outdoor bath were so inviting. ”

Jane Preece- 2025-05-25

15 / 20

“ This was an INCREDIBLE stay! The views are gorgeous and the host and manager of the cabin were so extremely helpful during our entire stay. We would 400% come back and bask in the views again. ”

Anastasia Khrenova- 2025-04-08

16 / 20

“ Wild Ridge is a hidden gem, an amazing home away from home nestled in the most stunning, beautiful and restful place. It was warm, inviting, and had everything we could need to have a relaxing weekend away from the hustle and bustle of life. We will 100% be back again. ”

Holly McGoram- 2025-04-01

17 / 20

“ Wild Ridge was the perfect escape for our anniversary weekend. A short drive from Auckland, and you find yourself on an isolated ridge with 360-degree views that are breathtaking. Plus, there is great attention to detail throughout the place. Highly recommend if you need a beautiful escape! ”

Darcie Dieman- 2025-03-21

18 / 20

“ We had an amazing stay! The views were absolutely breathtaking, and the cabin itself was warm, cosy, and equipped with everything we needed. The bed was incredibly comfy. The sound system and lighting were thoughtfully designed, enhancing the experience. We thoroughly enjoyed our time here and would definitely return. Best bath ever. Tina was also wonderful! ”

Sophie Geaney- 2025-03-15

19 / 20

“ Absolutely stunning setting and place on top of the hill! Wind down with vinyl records, the outdoor tub and all the amenities you need. Great 360-degree views and the perfect spot to watch the sunset. Super friendly host too! Can highly recommend to anyone! ”

Karri Hurskainen- 2025-03-13

20 / 20

“ Stunning view and a peaceful atmosphere. The space was well designed. ”

Ariana Yen- 2026-05-19

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

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