Off the Beaten Track

Approximately halfway between Blenheim and Nelson, our property is situated in the Wakamarina Valley, right next to the majestic Wakamarina River. With native bush and birdsong all around, accompanied by the soothing noise of the river below, this is a tranquil spot, perfect for getting away from it all. Whether you are an ‘active relaxer’ or prefer to lie in the sun with a good book, this is the place for you. Your accommodation is a private flat/bedsit, with its own external entrance, adjoined to the main house by a short corridor. In the guest flat is a large bedroom, sitting area, bathroom and kitchenette. You are provided with all necessary linens, towels etc, as well as complementary toiletries in the bathroom and basic cooking equipment in the kitchenette. You are provided with the makings of a continental breakfast: tea and coffee; cereal, fruit and yoghurt; bread and spreads – as well as fresh free range eggs if our hens are obliging that day! In addition to the private guest suite, guests are invited to make themselves at home in the main house - making use of the kitchen, dining and living spaces, enjoying the gardens and fish pond, using the deck, bbq and pizza oven for outdoor dining. With private access directly from our property to the river (through 100m or so of native bush), you will be able to enjoy cooling off in one of the picturesque swimming holes, including one with its own waterfall! We have snorkels and flippers if you want to explore the river up close (who knows, you may even spot some gold!) and inner tubes if you want to get a bit more adventurous. There are also plenty of foldout chairs and blankets for you to use if you feel like picnicking beside the river. At the end of our road is the renowned Wakamarina track, where you can hike through gorgeous native bush, alongside rivers and waterfalls. You are welcome to join us on an easy walk with our dogs or if you want more of a challenge, we are happy to point you in the right direction. We have also discovered an extraordinary display of glowworms, down by the river. We are happy to do a nighttime guided walk through the bush to the glowworms so you can enjoy this unforgettable sight! If that all sounds like a bit much effort, the house has a large wraparound deck perfect for soaking up a bit of sun and we have plenty of books, boardgames and puzzles for you to enjoy. Our horses are just over the fence and will always appreciate a pat and a carrot, and our two dogs and cat will be begging for attention throughout your stay. Not to mention, once you’ve seen the beautiful scenery, you won’t be able to resist getting out your camera to capture it. We both work from home so are generally on the property and available for guests when needed. We love meeting new people and are happy to spend time showing you around, however if you prefer your own space we are happy to oblige (although I can't promise the cat and dogs will do likewise!). Wakamarina is handily located between two of New Zealand’s best wine regions (Marlborough and Nelson) and there are plenty of options for exploring them. Havelock is a pretty little town known as the gateway to the Marlborough Sounds and it is even possible to take a cruise on the Mailboat Ferry around the Sounds, as it delivers mail and supplies to locals living in remote areas. Havelock has a few lovely cafés and restaurants, and is famous for its green shell mussels – a real treat! Canvastown (the “township” of the Wakamarina Valley) has a fascinating history as an historic goldmining settlement and you can follow the gold trail up Wakamarina Road. The Trout Hotel (formerly the Pelorus Hotel) is an historic pub serving the locals of (and visitors to) Canvastown since 1904. Given our remoteness, you will find your stay with us far more enjoyable if you have your own transport. Being 7 kms up the Wakamarina Valley, our property is fairly remote (but worth it!). There is a pub at the bottom of the road that serves evening meals but otherwise the closest place to buy food is in Havelock, which is a 15 minute drive away (there are cafes, pubs, takeaways and a small supermarket in Havelock). Our animals are a big part of our life here and they are used to being part of the family. The dogs in particular love meeting new people and will shower you with affection – if that is not something you would enjoy, this may not be the place for you. There is no mobile phone reception in the Wakamarina Valley. We have free wifi available for guests but it only stretches to a few metres beyond the house. There are a lot of sandflies in this area. Insect repellent spray is provided in the guest room.