The Art of Staying In

A little less screen time. A little more of everything else.

When was the last time you spent an entire afternoon without looking at your phone?

Between work, messages, social media and the constant pull of being available, it's easy to forget what it feels like to have nowhere else you need to be. Even holidays can become another opportunity to catch up on emails, take photos and plan what comes next.

At Tarata Eco Retreat, overlooking Kāwhia Harbour on the west coast of the Waikato, we wanted to create somewhere that feels a little different. Somewhere you can put your phone down, settle in and enjoy the simple pleasure of doing very little.

A Place Designed to Slow Down

Tarata was created by us, Michael, an engineer, and Kirstie, a clinical psychologist. Between us, we've spent years thinking about how our surroundings influence the way we feel, and how valuable it can be to step away from the demands of everyday life.

We wanted Tarata to be somewhere we'd genuinely want to escape to ourselves. Comfortable and thoughtfully designed, but without the distractions that so often follow us on holiday.

There's no television and no Wi-Fi. You'll still find mobile reception if you need it, but nothing here requires you to be online.

Instead, there are views across the harbour, birdsong in the mornings, a private wood-fired hot tub and plenty of opportunities to simply be.

What Does a Digital Detox Actually Look Like?

It doesn't have to mean switching your phone off for an entire weekend. For some people, it's as simple as leaving it inside while enjoying a morning coffee. For others, it's choosing not to check work emails or spending an evening together without scrolling.

There's no right way to do it, and certainly no rules at Tarata. But if you're curious about spending a little less time on your phone, here are a few things worth trying.

Put your phone somewhere out of sight

It's surprisingly easy to reach for your phone without thinking. Try leaving it in your bag or inside the cabin or tent for a few hours. You might be surprised how quickly you stop looking for it.

Give yourself permission to be unavailable

Let people know you're taking some time away. If you need to stay contactable, choose a time to check your messages rather than keeping your phone beside you all day.

Find something else to do with your hands

Make a coffee. Read a book. Play cards. Prepare a meal together. Light the pizza oven, take a long soak in the hot tub or simply sit outside and watch the tide change.

Sometimes the best part of being away is rediscovering how enjoyable ordinary things can be when you're not rushing through them.

Leave some moments uncaptured

We love a beautiful photograph as much as anyone, but not every sunset needs to be photographed. Sometimes it's enough just to sit and enjoy it.

Why Taking a Break from Screens Can Feel So Good

As a psychologist, Kirstie understands the importance of rest, attention and having time away from constant demands. Our relationship with technology isn't necessarily good or bad, but the way we use it can influence our sleep, stress levels and how present we feel in everyday life.

Research suggests that reducing certain types of screen use, particularly late at night or when it becomes difficult to switch off, may benefit sleep and wellbeing. The effects vary from person to person, and there's no magic number of hours you need to spend offline.

For us, a digital detox isn't about strict rules or trying to achieve some perfect state of relaxation. It's simply about making room for the things that can get crowded out.

The Simple Pleasure of Staying In

One of our favourite things about Tarata is that you don't need to go anywhere to enjoy your stay.

Spend the afternoon in the hot tub overlooking Kāwhia Harbour. Make homemade pizzas in the wood-fired oven. Share a bottle of wine, read a book you've been meaning to finish, or watch the stars come out after dark.

Wake slowly the next morning. Make breakfast, enjoy another coffee and take your time.

There's no itinerary to follow and no expectation to fill every hour with activities. Sometimes doing less is exactly what you came away for.

A Lighter Way to Stay

Living a little more simply is part of the Tarata experience. Our off-grid accommodation is designed to make thoughtful use of resources while allowing guests to enjoy the comfort of a beautiful, secluded retreat.

From the wood-fired hot tubs to the natural surroundings, we hope your time here encourages an appreciation for the quieter things, and for the landscape we're fortunate enough to share.

A Few Things You Might Be Wondering

Do I have to switch my phone off?

Not at all. How much you disconnect is entirely up to you.

Is there Wi-Fi?

We don't provide Wi-Fi, but there is generally 3G/4G mobile reception at the retreat, depending on your provider and conditions.

What if I need to stay contactable?

You can still use your mobile phone where reception is available. We simply encourage you to enjoy a little time away from it if that feels right for you.

Is Tarata suitable for a romantic getaway?

Absolutely. Both our Luxury Safari Tent and Cosy Cabin are designed for peaceful, private stays, with their own wood-fired hot tubs and beautiful harbour views.

Come Away for a While

You don't need to travel far or make elaborate plans to feel like you've had a proper break. Sometimes all it takes is a change of scenery, a little quiet and a few days without so many demands on your attention.

We'd love to welcome you to Tarata.