Ekatahuna did not feature high on my list of places to spend a night - but I was delighted to find the Bird House. A large carefully restored cottage with an outlook over a verdant rural landscape. The loft-like kitchen/living room is huge, with two comfortable sofas, a large dining area - and the spoiler, a wood burning stove, set and ready to light. The cottage has been carefully restored with great detailing and color choices. Would unhesitatingly stay there again.
The bonus - an easy two hour drive to the Wellington ferry terminal.