Embrace the peace at Fox hideaway
Fox Hut is the kind of getaway you didn’t know you needed. Hidden among the dense native bush that dominates the wild West Coast, you’ll find the most idyllic cabin waiting.
With views to die for and offerings that put the traditional good old Kiwi hut to shame, Fox Hut is the next level. Winter or summer, it is the perfect retreat for a romantic or solo escape.
Romantic, secluded and close to nature, you’ll leave this place rested and reconnected, ready to take on the world.
Location
There are no two ways about it, Fox Hut is not close to much, and therein lies its charm. You really want to have to go there. Halfway between Greymouth and Westport, New Zealand’s least populous region is quite the trek for most of us to reach.
A four-hour drive from Christchurch will take you through some of the most stunning countryside New Zealand has to offer – and that’s saying something.
And blink and you’ll miss it. Fox Hut is hidden in the flax off State Highway 6, just north of Punakaiki and the last vestiges of phone reception.
The space
The hut is reminiscent of the rich goldmining history on the West Coast, paying homage to the rustic cabins of ages past, with a modern upcycled twist, of course. After all, this is a prime glamping spot. Cosy luxury at its finest, you can snuggle up by the little woodburner to watch the waves roll right in on the wild coastline.
Make sure you get the wood-fired spa cranking as soon as you arrive, so you can slip into the toasty water as the sun sets and the stars begin to appear.
Inside, fall asleep tucked between thick linen sheets and among velvet pillows. Dig your toes into the thick sheepskins on the floor as you wake up to the sound of the waves, and with an extraordinary view thanks to epic floor-to-ceiling windows across the entire deck.
Stepping out
Fox Hut is definitely made for people to stick around and enjoy, so don’t feel any shame if you don’t leave the cabin for a couple of days.
However, if your feet do get itchy (and not from sandflies), there’s plenty to do and see in the area.
Since it’s next to Woodpecker Bay, head down there for long walks on the beach.
As well as an amazing, scenic two-hour bushwalk up the river, the area is home to some great tramps. If you head north towards Charleston, you can visit some of the most amazing glow-worm caves on the South Island.
A personal favourite is canoeing on Pororari River.
The food
It’s very much a bring-your-own experience. Fox Hut has a lovely little kitchen that you should definitely take advantage of. With all the trappings of a classic bach but nicer, including an outside barbecue, you have everything you need right there.
Just make sure you stock up on ingredients on your way in. The closest supermarkets are in Greymouth or Westport. Of course, you can always call into Punakaiki for some pancakes and a proper coffee for breakfast.
My favourite spot has to be the Rusty Cup coffee caravan at Fox River. It’s open often, usually closing when the sign blows over three times, and the owner is a bit of a legend.
On Sundays in the summer, head down to Fox River, where the river mouth meets the open sea, for a lovely local market.
Highlight
There is nowhere better to sit and watch the sunset over the coastline than from the wood-fired spa on the deck of Fox Hut.
It’s a truly special experience you can’t often find. Try it after dark, so you can witness shooting stars and watch SpaceX satellites whirl by, making you feel tiny and insignificant. Listen out for the local weka, as well as the native birds making their nocturnal calls.
Lowlight
Sandflies. Sometimes they are non-existent, but at other times you take your life in your hands if you show any skin There’s also no wi-fi (which is intentional). Embrace it.
Essentials
Fox Hut is tiny but packs a punch. Made up of one bedroom with a king bed with epic ocean views, there’s also a kitchen and living room that has all you need. There is a full bathroom with hot water, but the outdoor wood-fired spa is the real winner.
An adults-only accommodation, it sits near some steep cliffs and dense bush. The standard rate is around $350 a night.