🌅 Finding Peace in New Zealand: Why Our Coastal Farm Has Become a Hidden Retreat for Auckland Locals
- Vanessa Owen
- Dec 2, 2025
- 3 min read
Over the past year, we’ve had the privilege of welcoming many guests from across New Zealand — especially those living in Auckland — to our quiet coastal farm near Kerikeri.What started as a simple accommodation offering has slowly become something more meaningful:a peaceful escape for people who feel overwhelmed, tired, or simply in need of a breath of fresh air.
🌿 Life in the City Can Be Heavy — And That’s Okay to Admit
Many guests tell us they love Auckland, but the pace of life can sometimes feel exhausting:
Long hours of work
Busy schedules and constant notifications
Social pressure to “keep up”
Limited time in nature
Feeling disconnected, even when surrounded by people
Some of our visitors are international students.Some are working professionals.Some are parents.Some come alone, quietly, without telling anyone.
But regardless of background, the moment they arrive, we often hear the same words:
“I didn’t realise how much I needed silence.”“It feels like time slows down here.”“I can finally think clearly again.”
🌊 What Makes Driftwood Feel Different?
We’re not a resort.We’re not a commercial tourist attraction.And we’re definitely not a place with strict itineraries.
We are simply a 120-acre private seaside farm, where the sea breeze, open fields, and quiet nights create an environment that’s hard to find in city life.
Here, people can:
Wake up to the sound of waves instead of traffic
Drink coffee while watching the sunrise over the bay
Take a slow walk without meeting a single person
Read, nap, or simply lie down on the grass
Cook their favourite food without rush
Watch the stars — really watch them
Spend a day without needing to speak if they don’t want to
It’s a place where nothing is required, and everything is optional.
🤝 A Gentle Space for Those Who Prefer Soft Communication
Many of our Chinese guests tell us they feel nervous about English.Some worry about misunderstanding.Some simply prefer quiet interactions.
We want you to know:
You don’t need perfect English here. You just need to be yourself.
We’re here if you want to chat.We’re also happy to give you full privacy.Whether you’re extroverted or introverted, talkative or silent — you’re welcome exactly as you are.
🌟 Why People Say They Feel Safe Here
Safety isn’t just physical — it’s emotional.
At Driftwood, guests often say:
“I don’t feel judged here.”
“I can be quiet and no one asks why.”
“I feel comfortable, even when alone.”
“This place feels like a reset button.”
And that’s exactly what we hope to offer:A small sanctuary where your mind can unclench, your shoulders can drop, and your breath can slow down.
🥝 What Awaits You at Our Coastal Farm
A stay here could mean:
Morning walks with ocean views
Gentle horse riding or ATV for beginners
Encounters with wild kiwi birds
Cooking simple meals at your own pace
Watching the sun melt into the horizon
Sleeping deeply in a silent room
Feeling a sense of calm you may have forgotten
You can come for one night, a weekend, or longer — many guests extend their stay once they realise how peaceful it feels.
🎁 A Small Gift for Guests from Xiaohongshu
As a thank-you to those who discovered us through Xiaohongshu, we offer:
10% OFF any accommodation booked via Xiaohongshu
Just message us anytime.
💙 A Final Note From Us
Nature heals quietly.Sometimes all it takes is space, silence, and a different view.
If you’re feeling stressed, stuck, or simply curious —we welcome you to experience Driftwood for yourself.
A gentle place.A safe place.A place to breathe again. 🌿✨

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