Built in the early 1850’s for a large pioneering farming family, Arawa Homestead is steeped in history. It is still the hub of a 24 hectare (60 acre) farm.

The architecture, typical of early colonial New Zealand, has been faithfully restored featuring leadlights and New Zealand native timbers, complemented by many fine antiques.

Nestled in a large woodland garden, surrounded by hills with rural views of the Pauatahanui countryside, Arawa Homestead offers a peaceful, relaxing stay for guests.

Wander across the lawns framed by mature trees, rhododendrons, azaleas, roses, lavender and much more. Enjoy a quiet lunch in the dell beside the reflecting pond, in the fragrant shade of the wisteria-draped patio or in the cool comfort of the gazebo.

The animals will greet you on a farm stroll. Unpack a delicious picnic hamper in the bush reserve where native birds abound. Unwind and enjoy the magic which is Arawa.

Arawa Homestead is just 20 minutes' pleasant drive from Wellington, New Zealand's capital city, 20 minutes from ferry and rail terminals, 30 minutes from the airport.

Arawa Homestead offers luxury, tranquillity and romance with every aspect of your comfort carefully considered. Log fires, crisp linen, fresh flowers, Sky television and beautiful music of your choice... there is a grand piano in the parlour and an antique pedal organ for your enjoyment.

Julie provides New Zealand country cooking using fresh seasonal produce for all meals by arrangement, served indoors or alfresco in the gazebo.

About Arawa:

Arawa Homestead has a rich and interesting history. In the pioneering years of the mid to late 1800's, bullock wagons and stage-coaches stopped at Arawa for overnight coach and wheel repairs. Milk from the dairy herd was pulled on a sled behind bullocks to the roadside gate for collection. Alas, there are no bullocks now, but the original engineering workshop still stands.

Accommodation:

The Arawa Homestead guest wing comprises a spacious super-king bedroom with ensuite bath and shower, and a twin and a single bedroom, with private spa bathroom if requested.

Single parties are favoured with a maximum of five guests at one time.

Activities:

Let us help you discover why we love the Wellington area so much.

We can arrange...

• personalized tours (full or half day, chauffeured or self-drive) to local wineries, art galleries, Te Papa (New Zealand's National Museum), historic buildings, places of interest
• charter flights, harbour cruises
• fishing, sailing, windsurfing, water-skiing
• visits to live theatre, concerts, cinemas
• walks around wetlands, Mt Bruce Wildlife Reserve, beaches, bush walks ...
• visits to Maori and historic sites - yesteryear, gold was mined in the Pauatahanui hills
• a round or two of golf - a beautiful golf course adjoins our property
• reservations for restaurants

Facilities:

• garaging & helipad
• courtesy passenger transfer
• secretarial, phone, fax & email facilities
• well-stocked library
• croquet, tennis, billiards, petanque on-site

Extras:

Please ask for current prices of the following:

• lunch/picnic hamper
• 4-course country dinner, or BBQ, with fine NZ wines

Location and Directions:

Just 20-30 minutes pleasant drive from Wellington, New Zealand's capital city.

Driving from the North:

• Take State Highway 1 south
• Turn left on to State Highway 58 after the Paremata Bridge.
• Travel 5km to a one-way bridge.
• Continue on to Paekakariki Hill Rd for 2.80km to Arawa (mailbox #280) on the right

Driving from the South:

• Take State Highway 1 north.
• Turn right on to State Highway 58 before the Paremata Bridge.
• Travel 5km to a one-way bridge.
• Continue on to Paekakariki Hill Rd for 2.80km to Arawa (mailbox #280) on the right