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About Us

MEET
YOUR
hosts

Kia ora and welcome! We’re Tanya & Tom, the people behind Totara Enclave. We’ve created this little retreat as a place to slow down, reconnect with nature, and enjoy the simple pleasures of life close to nature.

Living here ourselves on the dome at the back of the property, we love sharing the beauty of this spot — from the native bush and birdlife to the ocean views and starry skies. Whether it’s pointing you toward the best local walks, surf breaks, or cafés, or simply giving you space to unwind, we’re here to make your stay easy and memorable.

Think of us as friendly locals who are never far away if you need a hand, but happy to leave you to enjoy your own slice of paradise.

And if you spot Astra, our friendly dog, don’t be surprised if she’s on the lookout for pats.

Two people standing with arms outstretched in front of a large glass-panelled dome surrounded by native bush and fern trees on a sunny day
A white Swiss Shepherd dog sitting on leaf-covered ground in a garden, tongue out, with green shrubs and trees in the background
A panoramic coastal view of a turquoise bay with rolling surf, native scrub in the foreground, and rolling hills and mountains in the background under a blue sky.
A well-maintained lawn area surrounded by tall native trees including cabbage trees and pines, with a small wooden outbuilding on the right and a decorative garden sign on the left.

ABOUT
THE
land

Nau mai, haere mai | Welcome to Tōtara Enclave

Tucked away in Whale Bay, just above the Indicators surf break, this little sanctuary feels worlds away yet is only a short 12 minute drive from Raglan. It’s the kind of spot where you can breathe deeply, surrounded by native bush, birdsong, and sweeping views of the Tasman Sea stretching north toward Tāmaki Makaurau/Auckland.

By day, watch the waves roll in, or soak in the warmth of the sun. By night, the skies open to the Milky Way, while the gentle calls of the Ruru (native owls) echo through the trees.

At night with clear skies you can see the milky way while the the Ruru’s (Owls) call echo throughout the trees.

The property is home to four unique cabins, each with its own character, gathered around shared spaces including a toilet block, outdoor shower, and a relaxed clearing to connect with nature or fellow travellers.

At the back of the land, you’ll spot our Dome, where we live and help care for this place.

As kaitiaki (guardians) of this whenua (land), the only thing we ask is that you help us look after it too — so that its magic can be enjoyed for many years to come.

WHY
“tōtara enclave”

The name reflects the heart of our retreat and the special place it occupies in nature:

Tōtara: A native tree of Aotearoa, known for its strength, endurance, and sheltering presence. In Māori culture, tōtara is often associated with leadership, guardianship, and protection — a perfect symbol for a retreat where guests can rest, reconnect with nature, and feel nurtured.

Enclave: A small, tucked-away place, private and distinct — a hidden pocket set apart from the busyness of everyday life.

Together Tōtara Enclave reflects our little tucked-away retreat — a peaceful, protected spot where guests can slow down, reconnect with nature, and feel cared for by nature, just as the land itself is cared for by us as kaitiaki (guardians).

Pouakani, the world's largest tōtara tree, with a massive ancient trunk and sprawling buttress roots rising through dense native New Zealand forest.

Pictured: Pouakani world’s biggest Totara tree