Had enough of overcrowded noisy backpackers? Then here's one you should try -- The Tree House. It's located two kilometers from the Rawene ferry terminus in the small, charming town of Kohukohu. A sandy driveway, shaded by fruit trees, leads up to the main building, and you'll pass an old school bus on the way (available as a double room). On arrival, when the owner's not there, you can ring a big old, loud school bell and someone will be there in a flash to assist you.
On the upper floor in the main building you will find two spacious share rooms (three and four beds), a living and dining room, two fully equipped kitchens (for herbs and spices, you leave money in the honesty box), and a large porch. On the ground floor there is one big and one small shower, two toilets, two wash basins, and laundry facilities. All are exceptionally clean, and because of that, backpackers staying there are happy to clean up after themselves.
While it's clean, that doesn't mean it's sterile. The rooms and communal areas are cosy -- little details in the interior design and in the mostly wooden decor make this a magic place, and immediately you feel at ease.
For those who like to read, there's a book exchange -- leave one/take one -- or have your pick of the hundreds of old National Geographic magazines stacked up in the living room. Or you can play a little tune on the on hand guitar. Or just put your feet up, enjoy the amazing view and atmosphere, and relax!
The hostel is situated in a rain forest-type environment. So a Robinson Crusoë experience will never be far from your mind, especially when you could spend a little more and sleep either in the pond, hilltop, or brook cabin -- and one night of luxury does come cheap in the Tree House.
Belinda Carlisle already said it in the '80s -- heaven is a place on earth. And we know where it is.
— Exclusive Hostelz.com Review
January 2007
Location/Contact
