Our one-night stay in the gold miners cottage right next to the homestead was a highlight of our South Island trip. Some 35 years after my last visit to Waipiata staying at the Homestead, this place is as special as I remembered it to be. We hadn’t realised that breakfast was included but were delighted to enjoy some of Peter‘s home-made bread and to access the charming shared areas of the Homestead. Peter shared lots of stories about the history of the place and suggested interesting places for us to explore the morning we left. The chance to pan for gold was a treat for our eight-year-old who was delighted with a find (after Peter’s suggestion we include gold coins in the pans).
This would be a brilliant place to extend to at least a two night stay on the rail trail. Only one night was available this time, but we’ll be back for longer next time.
The gold miners cottage was cosy, clean and comfortable with a great bathroom setup. Thanks for a lovely stay!