Wharekauhau
Ten minutes by helicopter from New Zealand's capital, Wellington -- or one and a half hours by road -- Wharekauhau occupies a dramatic site above the sweeping immensity of Palliser Bay.
It's been called one of the most spectacular farms on earth. Modeled on the lines of an Edwardian country mansion, this luxurious guesthouse features a grand hall, massive fireplaces, mullioned windows, and breathtaking views.
Wharekauhau (pronounced "forry-ko-ho") is a Maori word meaning "place of knowledge." In olden times the Tohunga, or holy men, came to this area to learn their ancient tribal lore.
The new Lodge was designed by Queenstown Architect Fred van Brandenburg and decorated by Auckland Interior Designer Virginia Fisher.
There are 12 private guest suites offering solitude and comfort in splendid, yet unpretentious, surroundings. Each suite has a super king-sized four-poster bed, spacious private bathroom, open fireplace, fully stocked bar and deep comfortable sofas and chairs.
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Each cottage is special and placed to take full advantage of the magnificent views that Wharekauhau offers to mountain, bush, sea, and sky.
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The luxurious bathrooms feature a deep soaking tub with a view, seperate stall shower, and thick terry cloth robes.
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Situated in one of New Zealand's most outstanding wine growing regions, Wharekauhau's wine cellar features the finest Martinborough wines. Visits to local vineyards can be arranged.
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Petanque and Croquet are available to all guests in the courtyard to the rear of the main Lodge building. Tennis Court to the right of the Petanque court, racquets & balls available at reception.
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With 5000 acres of private land including ancient forests, peaceful lakes, rivers, rolling pastureland and a wild and breathtaking coast, there is little shortage of choice when it comes to choosing a route for fishing, walking, mountain biking, horse riding, or ATV quad bike adventures.
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Rugged, spectacular and breathtaking. Drive along the coastline following the original stock route established in 1844 when sheep and cattle were first introduced to the region. Watch thunderous surf pound into the rocky coastline of Palliser Bay and feel the exhilaration of this wild coastal environment.
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For those who enjoy leisurely pursuits, there is much to do around the lodge. It may be your chance to catch up on your reading, check your e-mail or surf the net using the guest laptop in the drawing room.

Western Lake Road
Featherston, New Zealand
U.S. Reservations: 904-288-0036
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Set on over 5000 acres of private land including rivers, forests, and lakes, Wharekauhau is New Zealand's second oldest Romney Stud and continues to operate as a working sheep station.
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The new lodge, which was built on the site of the original lodge, reopened on January 1, 1998.
In 1999 Wharekauhau won the New Zealand Tourism Award for Boutique Hotels & Lodges. In 2000 Wharekauhau won the New Zealand Tourism Award for Tourism Innovation in Quality Management.
Guest accommodations are provided in charming cottages located throughout the grounds, all within easy walking distance of the main house.
Plastered walls, richly carpeted floor, and glowing wooden beams contribute to an intimate atmosphere of warmth and elegance.
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Relax by the warm glow of your fireplace in one of the cottage bedrooms.
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Wharekauhau is renowned for its outstanding cuisine. In preparing your food, only the freshest local ingredients are used and your individual needs are met with the highest standards of attentive personal service.
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The presentation of each dish is an artform.
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The new Leisure Centre is now open - Indoor heated swimming pool, spa pool and gym facility.
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Horse riding at Wharekauhau is dependent on the weather conditions. Often it is more comfortable and safer to ride earlier in the morning before the wind gets up.
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No visit to Wharekauhau is complete without a tour of the surrounding farm. This classic New Zealand Romney sheep station features all the activities that have created New Zealand's legendary farming heritage, including sheep shearing demonstrations, sheep dogs in action and daily farm events. Bordered by the Rimutaka Ranges and Pacific Ocean this, not to be missed, working sheep station tour is fascinating - an absolute must for all Wharekauhau visitors.
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After your strenuous day around the estate enjoy a relaxing massage in the surrounds of your cottage suite before joining guests at the main Lodge for pre-dinner cocktails followed by a fabulous gourmet meal. The Lodge is located 66 miles east of Wellington Airport (two and a half hour scenic drive), or 10 minutes by helicopter.

2004/2005 Daily Rates: October 1, 2004 - April 30, 2005...Double Occupancy $NZ 765 per person . Single Occupancy $NZ 995 per person. Wharepapa Cottage (3 bedrooms) 3 Night Stay NZ$4,680. 5 Night Stay NZ$7,000. 7 Night Stay NZ$8,740. Chateau Wellington (3 bedrooms) 2 Bedrooms NZ$4,100. 3 Bedrooms NZ$5,610. Special 5 Night Rate... Five nights for the price of four. Above rates are exclusive of GST. Minimum stay two nights. May 1, 2005 - September 30. 2005...Double Occupancy $NZ 610 per person . Single Occupancy $NZ 815 per person. Wharepapa Cottage (3 bedrooms) 3 Night Stay NZ$3,750. 5 Night Stay NZ$5,460. 7 Night Stay NZ$7,000. Chateau Wellington (3 bedrooms) 2 Bedrooms NZ$3,590. 3 Bedrooms NZ$4,840. Special 5 Night Rate... Five nights for the price of four. Above rates are exclusive of GST. Minimum stay two nights. Rates Include: Accommodation, Full Breakfast, Cocktail Hour (7-8pm), Superb Gourmet Dinner Lunch is available on request at an additional charge Rates are subject to confirmation at the time of booking. Reservation: In order to confirm a reservation, we require a deposit of 25% of the total stay, or a current credit card number (with expiry date) to guarantee the booking. We levy a 25% charge of the total stay to the credit card 30 days prior to arrival. Cancellation: In the event that we are unable to replace a cancelled booking, the following applies: 25% of total cost of stay - 30 days prior 100% for each room night - 48 hours prior Special conditions apply for group bookings. All Tariffs are quoted in New Zealand dollars and are exclusive of Goods and Services Tax.

Reservation Information