Wharekauhau

THE MĀORI ART OF LIVING

In Māori, Wharekauhau means «place of learning», as this is where the elders used to learn their craft. Just over two hundred years ago, a vast sheep farm, which is still in operation, was established on the site. Today, in this bucolic setting overlooking Palliser Bay, this Relais & Châteaux property cultivates a refined art of living. Spread across 2,500 hectares of nature, the estate's 16 suites and cottages elegantly combine antiques and natural materials in an atmosphere reminiscent of the Edwardian era. Wharekauhau is also home to a haven of expansive gardens populated by native plants, a croquet lawn, flower beds, as well as an orchard and a vegetable garden that supply the restaurant, where you can enjoy delicious, reimagined Kiwi cuisine. Immerse yourself in the warm and sophisticated atmosphere of Wharekauhau: enjoy an unforgettable stay by the fire with sea views; share a glass of wine in the sun-drenched kitchen; or take a mountain bike ride along the black sand beach... Wharekauhau is above all a highly exclusive retreat in the heart of the New Zealand countryside, reached by helicopter or by road from Wellington. Here, you are part of the family.

STYLE

A working sheep farm with a history spanning over 200 years, home to an Edwardian-style boutique hotel

SITUATION

Right at the south of the North Island, overlooking Palliser Bay, a 90-minute drive from Wellington

CAPACITY

13 Suites, 2 three-bedroom cottages & 1 private villa

HIGHLIGHTS

Experience an authentic farm stay focused on «locavores», while enjoying a sumptuous coastal setting

THE EXPERIENCES

  • Spa, indoor swimming pool and outdoor Jacuzzi, fitness centre
  • Tennis, boules, croquet, archery, clay pigeon shooting, fishing
  • Horse riding, walking, mountain biking, quad biking...
  • Whale and dolphin watching cruise
  • Visit to the Martinborough and Marlborough vineyards
  • Discovery of the farm and sheep flocks
  • Private cooking class & Wine tastings
  • Helicopter tour of the estate
  • Visit to the village of Ngawi and observation of the fur seals
  • 9 or 18 hole golf

THE EXTRAORDINARY

Discovering sheep farming aboard a comfortable all-terrain vehicle is an unmissable experience for all visitors to Wharekauhau. Bordered by the Rimutaka Range and the Pacific Ocean, this classic Romney sheep farm brings together all the activities rooted in New Zealand's rural tradition, notably shearing demonstrations, watching working sheepdogs in action and daily farm-related events.

ETHICS

A Relais & Châteaux member, Wharekauhau respects the association's values, which are centered around authentic local cuisine, respect for the environment and the promotion of craftsmanship. The estate offers a «farm-to-table» gastronomy with a locavore approach where most of the produce comes from its kitchen garden, its farm and its own land.