Small escapes

A tiny home holiday rental company is making the most of Marlborough’s scenery to help showcase their venture.

Singaporean rental company Tiny Away works alongside landowners to place their tiny houses on private land, including the new Te Hau Tiny House in Blind River.

The Singaporean-based business began in 2017 when Jeff Yeo, Adrian Chia, and Dave Ng realised the potential.

As people become more ecotourism and sustainability savvy, the move makes sense, says Jeff.

“Low-impact holidays and ecotourism are increasingly valued by travellers especially in New Zealand.

“Small and sustainable accommodation options like our tiny houses help entice more people out of the cities to experience and connect with the natural wonders … treading lightly on the natural ecosystems and communities they visit.”

The homes are provided to hosts at no cost, and landowners share rental revenue.

Jeff says that the company originally targeted couples from major cities looking for a break but are seeing a lot of locals looking for a quick and easy ‘staycation’ or young families looking for a truly cosy family getaway.

“It’s an ideal base for those who want to explore the local wine and food culture or the stunning Marlborough Sounds”.

With views of Cape Campbell Lighthouse, Lake Grassmere, and the North Island Coast, Te Hau Tiny House sits in the surrounds of Ward Beach, Marfells Beach, and Yealands Winery.

The house is just a short drive from Lake Grassmere Saltworks and surrounded by plenty of fishing spots for keen anglers.