Kumiko's Guest House

Experience the timeless beauty of Japanese design in harmony with the pristine New Zealand landscape at Kumiko’s Guesthouse – your perfect haven amongst the vineyards of Waipara. When you book to stay with us at Kumiko’s, you are booking the full use of the house and gardens. Everything on offer here is yours to enjoy. Kumiko’s comprises many of the elements found in the gracious architecture of traditional Japan: an internal courtyard (genken) featuring the timeless composition of a zen garden; wide verandas designed for sitting within nature; interior spaces that include the extensive use of wood and stone; sliding screens that divide or expand spaces; a sunken dining room that encourages a sense of occasion at the table; and extensive architectural gardens that reflect the dramatic views of the shifting North Canterbury skies. Kumiko’s is imbued with an overall sense of wabi-sabi, the Japanese design concept that can be loosely translated as the celebration of “perfect imperfection.” Wabi-sabi favours the handmade, the crafted, the bespoke, the tactile, the sensory and is the impulse behind our desire to revitalise the beautiful design inherent here, and offer Kumiko’s as a haven for all those who yearn for the harmony of handmade beauty within nature. Guest shave access to the whole property when they stay at Kumiko's We will meet you and familiarise you with Kumiko's and all it has to offer and are available to answer any questions you may have. We're in love with the beautiful Hurunui Region and you will be too. Not wanting to blow our own trumpet or anything, but we really are blessed to be located in the most amazing region of New Zealand. Not only are we deep in the heart of wine country, within easy access to multiple outstanding wineries and vineyards, but we are also in that magic sweet spot between the mountains and the sea. We’re an easy drive to the hot pools in nearby spa town Hanmer, which has a wealth of cafes and boutique shopping available as well. Golfers are well served by the nearby Amberley Golf Course There is incredible fishing just up the road at Motunau if you feel like catching your own dinner. You can enjoy some wonderful whale watching in Kaikoura, or surf the world renowned Mangamaunu break also in the Kaikoura area. For those who crave peace and quiet, go off grid and head to Gore Bay where you can luxuriate in everything beach without fear of interruption. Did we mention the people? Like New Zealand in general, our region is renowned for friendly service from passionate locals living their best lives. They’d love to see you soon. Arriving from the airport? its an easy 50 minute drive to Kumiko's.