 TM
WHAREKAUHAUA PLACE FOR WISE MEN OF THE PAST AND PRESENTBy Madelyn MillerWharekauhua is an ancient Maori word meaning place of knowledge. In olden times the Tohunga, or holy men, came here to learn their ancient tribal lore .In modern times, wise men come here to get away from it all.  Not everyone has discovered Wharekauhua. Situated on a dramatic site above the sweeping immensity of Palliser Bay, this working sheep station is set on over 5000 acres of private land including rivers, forests and lakes. It has been called one of the most spectacular farms on earth. Yet it is only ten minutes by helicopter from Wellington, New Zealand's capital.
I chose the longer way, a one and a half-hour drive by road that offers breathtaking views enroute. But I still was not prepared for the sheer majesty of Warekauhau.  The distinctive Warekauhau brand has a romantic story all its own. It dates back 150 years to the time when the station first began exporting its wool. In those days Wharekauhua's remote location demanded unusual methods of transport. First the bales were taken down to the beach to dry. Then after being loaded into a waiting longboat, they were rowed out through the breakers to a sailing vessel lying at anchor in Palliser Bay.
On the very first occasion it was noticed that none of the bales had an identifying mark. Some quick thinking and a typical bit of kiwi ingenuity solved the problem. A pot of paint was procured, the boats, rowlock commandeered as a branding iron and so was born the famous Wharekauhau brand. Lore has it that within the upturned cup is contained health, fortune and spiritual contentment for all who encounter it.  Today, there is nothing you have to do at Wharekauhau. And that is why many people come here. Others come because there is so much to do..beach, golf, four wheel drive trekking, trampling and climbing, farm tours, fishing and diving, bushcraft and wine trails.
Wharekauhau is exactly what you want it to be. And although everyone finds different things to do at Wharekauhau, they all agree that the food is outstanding. Local ingredients, discreet but attentive service and imaginative menus add up to a true gourmet experience. And since Wharekauhau is situated in one of New Zealand's most outstanding wine growing regions, it is not surprising that the features the finest Martinborough wines.  The lodge is modeled along the lines of an Edwardian country mansion. The luxurious guest house has a grand hall, massive fireplaces, mullioned windows and breathtaking views. Yet there is a sense of warmth conviviality and intimate hospitality that makes Wharekauhau a unique experience.
 There are only 20 private guest suites for up to 40 very lucky people. Each offers solitude and comfort in splendid yet unpretentious surroundings. There is a king sized four poster bed and fireplace in each room, and the glowing wooden beams contribute to an intimate atmosphere of warmth and elegance.
I think this would be a wonderful placed to honeymoon, celebrate an anniversary or any other excuse you can think of to enjoy this kind of special pampering in a glorious location.
WHAREKAUHAU INTERNATIONAL RESORT COMPANY LIMITED
Western Lake Road
Palliser Bay
RD3 Featherston, New Zealand
64-6-307-7581
fax 64-6-307-7799
wharekauhau.lodge@xtra.co.nz FOR MORE INFORMATION ON NEW ZEALAND;
800-388-KIWI (5494)
http://www.nztb.govt.nz Back to TravelLady Magazine |