Sanctuary Within
Sanctuary Within

Our take on a woman's cave

Our take on a woman's caveOur take on a woman's caveOur take on a woman's cave

The Sanctuary is a women - only, solo - stay space to rest, reset, and step away from everyday life. 

Our take on a woman's cave

Our take on a woman's caveOur take on a woman's caveOur take on a woman's cave

The Sanctuary is a women - only, solo - stay space to rest, reset, and step away from everyday life. 

About Sanctuary Within

Pink mug on a magazine beside cozy blankets on a wooden chair.

The Sanctuary – a place to rest

The Sanctuary offers boutique accommodation in a quiet, rural setting. It is for women who want time on their own and are open to slowing down. It’s a place to think, write, and sit with what’s going on beneath the surface. It may not suit those looking for social interaction, entertainment, or a busy environment.

How stays work

Stays at the Sanctuary are offered on a donation basis. We have provided a guide on pricing below, but what's more important is that women use it with love and care for themselves, and the women who follow them. Our vision is for these homes to be made available across NZ and because of that, ALL money donated above the running costs goes towards setting up the next Sanctuary. 


If you are able to donate $79 per night, it helps keep the Sanctuary running and covers rent, power, what is provided in the space and basic pantry supplies. If not, you are welcome to donate whatever you can afford - there is no fixed price. 

What's provided

This space has been intentionally prepared for solitude and rest. It offers simple comforts and quiet surroundings, without excess or distraction.  The space includes:

  • A private area for one person
  • A bed (please bring your own linen)
  • Bathroom facilities
  • A basic kitchen area
  • Basic pantry items
  • Journals and pens to use and take away
  • A space to write letters
  • Simple self-care items, including manicure supplies
  • Outdoor space to sit quietly

Some things to note

  • Please bring your own linen (queen flat sheet, queen fitted sheet, pillowcases) and towels (including tea towel).


  • One of the key aspects of Sanctuary Within is that we are looking for women who will care for this space as their own and leave it well prepared for the next woman, leaving it clean and tidy at the end of their stay. Cleaning products and clear checklists are provided to make this easy. 


  • A light kitchenette is available (fridge, toaster, jug and basic utensils), so please plan simple meals. Greytown is only a 10 minute drive away if you'd like to dine out or pick something up. 


  • Shampoo, conditioner and body soap are provided. Feel free to bring any extras you love for your personal comfort.

Safety and security

We understand that staying on your own in a rural area can feel daunting. Please know that there are neighbours very close by (they won't disturb you) and there are outdoor security cameras in place for safety. The Sanctuary is designed to feel private, calm and secure. 

Is this the right place for you?

The Sanctuary is for women who want time on their own and are willing to slow down. It's suited to those who value quiet, simplicity and inner reflection. This is not a guided retreat or a program - it's an intentionally simple space to be with yourself. 

Booking

To check availability or ask anything at all, please email us at shelley@sanctuarywithin.co.nz. Let us know your preferred dates and how many nights you're hoping to stay. You can also call or text us on +64 27 213 9151.

Some Q's and A's

Q: Is this like a group retreat?

A: Nope. This isn't a group retreat. This is your Sanctuary - your solo escape to do exactly what you need. 


Q: What do I need to bring?

A: A change of clothes, your favourite foods, linen (queen sheet set and pillowcases), towels, including hand towel and tea towel and anything else that brings you comfort.


Q: How do you guarantee that each Sanctuary is left in good condition for the next guest?

A: Every Sanctuary comes with simple, foolproof cleaning steps and all the supplies you need - sprays, wipes, the works. But here's the thing: we know our women show up responsibly. You take care of yourself, you take care of the space. Follow the steps, leave it fresh, welcoming and ready for the next woman to walk in and claim her own slice of calm. It's that simple - and yes, we trust you to nail it. 


Q: Is there wifi or phone service?

A: There is basic cellphone connectivity, no wifi is supplied - but you're lovingly encouraged to disconnect. This is a chance to step away from the noise and back into yourself. 

The Sanctuary

    Reviews

    Nikki - May 2026

    Mandy - June 2026

    Mandy - June 2026

    Absolutely stunning little location. I felt my nervous system relax within a few hours of just sitting and watching the fantails. They really have thought of everything with this space. From journals you can use, scrapbooking materials, teas to try, manicure and pedicure materials. It’s such a peaceful and quiet place. I journaled for hours in the sunshine. Loved all of it. You will as well.

    Mandy - June 2026

    Mandy - June 2026

    Mandy - June 2026

    This was a magical place to stay!  So quiet and peaceful and all the little added touches that were provided helped make it a wonderful experience. I can't wait to go back sometime.

    Carol - July 2026

    Mandy - June 2026

    Carol - July 2026

    Thank you Shelley and Laura for creating this beautiful and peaceful little space. I had a truly restful and restorative stay and really appreciated the thoughtful little details such as the interesting range of teas to try and the very comfortable chair facing out to the stunning view over the Ruamahanga river valley with fantails flitting about. It's a magical place and I'd love to come back sometime.

    Anne - July 2026

    Megan - July 2026

    Carol - July 2026

    A little cocoon of mindfulness - peaceful surroundings and everything you need to pause and reset. 10 min drive to Greytown makes it easy to get around. The heater, electric blanket and double glazing kept me toasty despite near zero temperatures overnight. As advertised, note there is no hot water. Great value for money, I'll be back!


    Note** Hi Anne, thanks so much for your review. Thanks for bringing to my attention that our listing stated no hot water - I have just amended it to show that we do have hot water. Hopefully your slightly chilly weekend doesn't put you off from returning! Thanks again, Shelley

    Mel - July 2026

    Megan - July 2026

    Megan - July 2026

    This a cosy, private and relaxing place to get away on your own. It encourages you to slow down and have time to yourself. I loved all the extras and the beautiful view. It's warm in winter too, with an electric blanket for the bed and a heater that warms the space quickly. Definitely recommend!

    Megan - July 2026

    Megan - July 2026

    Megan - July 2026

    Fantastic peaceful retreat!

    Dayna - July 2026

    Kasey - August 2026

    Kasey - August 2026

    What an amazing getaway it was for me. I wish I had stayed 2 nights (don't worry I'll be back) so peaceful and beautiful. Great communication and a bubble of bliss. I left feeling reset. See you again soon 

    Kasey - August 2026

    Kasey - August 2026

    Kasey - August 2026

    I had the most incredible weekend here, thank you so much. I needed to recharge and that’s exactly what I did. I absolutely loved all the thoughtful touches around, the notepads, colouring in book, manicure equipment - everything has been really thought out. I’ll be back again for sure!

    Connect With Us

    Contact Us

    Contact us with any queries

    This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

    216 Glenmorven Road, Morison Bush, New Zealand

    shelley@sanctuarywithin.co.nz +64 27 213 9151

    Copyright © 2026 Sanctuary Within - All Rights Reserved.

    • Privacy Policy

    Powered by

    This website uses cookies.

    We use cookies to analyze website traffic and optimize your website experience. By accepting our use of cookies, your data will be aggregated with all other user data.

    DeclineAccept