This spot is a gem if you’re looking for some quiet retreat in nature. It’s surrounded by the ngahere with loads of native plants and birds.
There’s an adorable bird watering station set up outside one window. Coffee (provided) and bird watching in the morning? Yes please. We saw a tūī (rare in this part of Aotearoa) and watched a portly korimako pretend it was their personal space, seeing off several others.
We did the small Totara Loop on the property. It winds through the bush and despite the property being on a hill manages to not be too steep at all. A short drive up the hill to the road along the top there are various other walks but also many spots for watching the sunset. There was even a smattering of snow up there when we visited (midwinter).
The room is a sun trap with stunning views over the valley. It’s private from the host’s whare, separated by height on the hill and lots of trees/planting. The kitchenette was easy to navigate and had so many welcoming touches. We were provided biscuits, juice, milk, tea, coffee, cereal, and eggs as well as oil, salt and pepper. There was also soap in the bathroom. And there was a dishwasher.
The drive up is through native bush on a gravel road - we’re totally used to this kind of road in rural aotearoa but you’ll want to be a confident driver.
Really can’t recommend enough - I want to live there. Thanks Barbara!