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Michael King's house has been bought by the University of Waikato as a retreat for university staff.
The three bedroom home in Opoutere, near Whangamata, is described as "not bachy" and "not House and Garden".
University of Waikato spokeswoman Peta Goldsworthy said the house will provide peaceful surrounds for staff who need some quiet time to finish off a paper or some writing.
She said the desk that Mr King did much of his writing at has been left in the house, along with a number of books.
"The university is looking at other ways it can pay tribute to Michael King," Ms Goldsworthy said, and suggestions have been sought from staff.
The writer and historian was awarded an honorary doctorate in 2002 and spent years working and studying at the University of Waikato.
Mr King and his wife Maria Jungowska died in 2004 after their station wagon left State Highway 2 near Maramarua, slammed into a tree and burst into flames.
