Fun and Funky - fully restored genuine 1940's handmade caravan | Cabin in Great Barrier Island

“Willis” is named after her creator Arnie Willis who handcrafted her in his backyard in the 1940's. Originally built of plywood, she was re-clad in aluminium later in life. We have made every endeavour to keep Willis as close to her original state as possible, while having 21st century luxuries. The elevated unique glamping caravan is nestled amongst native bush, surrounded by bird song, stunning sea views and clear dark night skies. Private and quiet, it's a complete escape from everyday life.
Willis has been lovingly restored with a collection of retro kitchenware; a Bluetooth compatible restored valve radio; a retro Smeg fridge and classic American style booth seating.
Willis is permanently parked on a purpose built sustainable space, nestled in regenerating bush with plenty of fishing, biking and hiking opportunities. It is fully off the grid, running solely on solar; our own water source and with a composting flush toilet, but with all the mod-con luxuries.
The unique glamping caravan boasts:
- Being tastefully decorated, this unique accommodation has been designed with a retro interior theme, including a classic American style booth seating
- A comfortable queen-size bed with luxurious crisp bed linen
- Vintage wool blankets and warm luxurious bedding will keep you cosy at night
- Fully equipped cooking and eating equipment including a gas hob and retro Smeg fridge
- Lovingly restored with a collection of retro kitchenware
- A Bluetooth compatible restored valve radio

Outside includes:
- An adjacent private eco-friendly bathroom, equipped with a flush toilet and hot shower
- Soak up the serenity of the bush, with surround windows whilst you shower!
- The deck has everything you need to enjoy outdoor living
- A state of the art barbeque to use for cooking dinner
- View of the bay or the stars at night in our comfortable deck chairs
- There is an externally vented gas heater to keep you warm and cosy in winter
- Private parking

We provide:
- Coffee, tea and milk
- Handmade soap. Toilet paper. DAZZ cleaning products
- Luxurious towels
- All bed linen, towels, dish cloths and cleaning products
- Binoculars for viewing the stars at night
- A technology detox. Although we recommend you switching off and immersing yourself in nature. However, Wi-Fi is available at Willis. Cell phone coverage is limited, but our location does have a good amount of 4G connectivity available.
- Kayaks and bikes available for hire.
- We can also arrange vehicle rental hire.

This is the ideal place for a couple, friends or an individual to get away from the hustle of daily life and use as a base to explore and have an authentic Aotea adventure. The quirky space would also be perfect for writers or artists wanting a private space to write novels, paint or draw.

Check out our other eco homes on Airbnb:
Le Cabanon, off-grid tiny cabin
Borneo Bungalow in the Bush
The Look Out - Architecturally designed house with stunning views

Guest access

This is a private and secluded caravan with access via the elevated decking from the driveway. A relatively steep 500 metre 4 wheel drive access driveway will bring you to the parking. (4WD is highly recommended.) Car parking is an easy two-minute walk from the caravan.
A 10-minute walk from the chalet leads you down to the beach for a morning sea dip or a 3-minute drive from the shops, cafés and pubs. The rest of the island is easily accessible by car as well, or if you’re brave you can easily hitch around the island.
The ferry port and airport are both within a short driving distance.

This 1 Bedroom Cabin provides accommodation with Parking, View, Oceanfront, for your convenience. This Cabin features many amenities for guests who want to stay for a few days, a weekend or probably a longer vacation with family, friends or group. This Cabin is less than 1 km from Tryphena, and gives visitors the opportunity to explore it. The rental Cabin has 1 Bedroom and 1 Bathroom to make you feel right at home.

Check to see if this Cabin has the amenities you need and a location that makes this a great choice to stay in Tryphena. Enjoy your stay in Tryphena at this Cabin.