In a time when housing prices and power bills bite harder than ever, one couple in the Hurunui District of New Zealand is living proof that you can own land, a tiny home, and your own solar power system, all for less than $395,000.
Adrian and Erica ditched the city noise and financial stress to build a life of freedom, sustainability, and financial control. And they did it all on 5.01 hectares of land for a fraction of the cost of a traditional mortgage in town.
The Breakdown: What They Spent
- Land (5.01 hectares) – $325,000 (Mortgage of $225,000)
- Tiny home, two containers, digger, and full GridFree solar system – all under $70,000
“The tiny home and the two containers that we brought onto the land, and also with our GridFree the solar kit, I'd say that was probably under $70,000.” says Erica “And we only pay the mortgage on the land now.”
Living Costs Slashed
Once they moved off-grid, Adrian and Erica’s monthly expenses dropped dramatically.
“We don’t pay power. We don’t pay for water. We don’t pay rates,” Erica explains. “All we really cover is the mortgage, Starlink for internet, fuel and a little bit of groceries.”
Thanks to a composting toilet, DIY septic system, water tanks, and a Freedom solar kit from GridFree, they're almost entirely self-sufficient – and happy.
DIY Spirit = Big Savings
Instead of hiring contractors, Adrian and Erica did much of the setup themselves — from digging their own leach field and framing their septic tanks, to setting up the solar system with GridFree’s comprehensive installation manual.
“We watched a few YouTube videos, got stuck in, and did it all ourselves. And GridFree helped whenever we needed them. It never felt like customer service – it felt like a friendship.”
By installing almost everything themselves, they avoided tens of thousands in labour costs — and gained a deep pride in what they’d built.
A Simple Life, Packed With Richness
Their tiny home may be compact, but it’s anything but cramped. Designed to capture panoramic views and starry skies through full glass walls, the house offers beauty, efficiency, and plenty of comfort.
“This place just fits us. It tells our story,” says Erica. “At night I lie in bed and look up through the glass at the stars — it’s like I’m in orbit.” - Adrian
Solar That Just Works
Adrian & Erica power the entire property with GridFree’s Freedom solar kit — eight panels, batteries, and all components included. They mounted the panels on top of shipping containers, created a “control room” for the inverter, and haven't looked back since.
“It just works. Every day. I open the container door, check the panel, and smile. We haven’t had a single issue.”
The Verdict?
"It's not something you can experience by thinking of it, or watching a video. You've got to live it, to experience it. And now that I'm living the experience, I'll never go back." - Adrian
Adrian and Erica’s story isn’t just inspiring — it’s proof that home ownership, self-sufficiency, and a rich lifestyle are still possible in today’s world, especially when you go off-grid.
So if you’re dreaming of freedom, financial independence, and owning your slice of paradise… you might be closer than you think.
Check out your Freedom Pro today!