At a glance
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We handpick the properties we work with. Everything we do is tailor-made for our clients so when you speak to one of our team they will advise you on the best property for you.
One of New Zealand’s most distinctive luxury lodges, sitting on a 3,000-acre coastal estate in the Wairarapa with a history stretching back to the 1840s.
Wharekauhau is a beautifully curated retreat where antique furnishings, grand fireplaces, and warm communal spaces create an atmosphere that feels lived in and deeply considered. A formal dining room flows into a country kitchen and sunlit conservatory, with French doors opening onto manicured gardens and a private courtyard.
The food is rooted in the estate itself. Farm-to-table dining draws on the surrounding land, with a kitchen that takes its produce seriously and a dining experience that reflects the property’s long connection to this stretch of New Zealand coastline.
The Foley family have brought a vision focused on community, craft, and heartfelt hospitality that has only deepened over time. For Out Of Office guests seeking a New Zealand experience with real substance, Wharekauhau is hard to look past.
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- ATV quad biking across 3,000 acres of coastal trails and black sand beaches.
- Martinborough wine country on the doorstep, with vineyard tours and long Pinot Noir lunches.
- Private stargazing from your terrace in one of New Zealand’s certified dark-sky reserves.
Accommodation
Foley Villa
The Foley Villa is Wharekauhau’s most private and expansive accommodation, a 418sqm Hamptons-inspired retreat sleeping up to six guests across three king suites, each with claw-foot baths and Palliser Bay views.
An open-plan lounge with a log-burning fireplace, a fully equipped kitchen, heated infinity pool, hot tub, and outdoor fireplace make it ideal for groups or families wanting complete seclusion.
Helicopter access, a private chef option, and full access to lodge facilities round out an exceptional offering.
Cottage Suites
Designed by renowned New Zealand designer Virginia Fischer, the 16 Cottage Suites sit perched above the wild surf of Palliser Bay, each offering 70sqm of thoughtfully crafted space with spectacular ocean views.
Super king beds, a gas fireplace, double spa bath, heated marble floors, and a private ocean-view terrace come as standard, with natural materials throughout including clay tiles, pebble mosaics, and hand-plastered walls.
Interconnecting layouts make them ideal for families or groups wanting privacy without straying far from the main lodge.
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Don't forget that most of our itineraries can be totally customized. Our expert team will be able to talk you through all the options.
Dining
Dining at Wharekauhau is rooted in the estate itself, with seasonal menus built around estate-grown produce, foraged ingredients, and local artisan suppliers.
A 5,000-bottle cellar focuses on boutique Martinborough and New Zealand wines, with rare tastings available at the Sommelier’s Table featuring Foley Wines and local vintages.
The estate even produces its own Lighthouse Gin, distilled with mountain spring water and native botanicals at the edge of Cape Palliser.
Experiences
Wharekauhau’s experiences range from adrenaline to indulgence, with something genuinely compelling at every level.
ATV quad biking across black sand beaches, guided heritage farm tours, archery, clay target shooting, and e-bike coastal rides cover the adventurous end, while wine lovers are well served with Martinborough vineyard tours, private Sommelier’s Table tastings, and the extraordinary Signature Foley Wine Flight by helicopter across both islands.
Private stargazing, a Chef in the Wild outdoor feast, and the estate’s own Lighthouse Gin tasting round out an exceptional programme.
Our Experts
Jaike Rowe
Luxury Travel Expert"New Zealand is one of the most magical places in the world. If you love out-of-this-world landscapes, this island nation is definitely worth adding to your bucket list."
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Maria Gardner
Luxury Travel Expert"Breathtaking landscapes, awe-inspiring environments - New Zealand impresses at every turn. The vibrant Māori culture on display here is also so special. "
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Why book with us?
Personal Service
We want to ensure you have the best experience with us so we’ll keep working on your itinerary until perfect. You will have your own personal dedicated member of our team who will help build a trip that is bespoke to you.
Call our travel experts on +44 (0)20 7157 1570
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We pride ourselves in the number of clients that are referred to us by our existing customers. Our 5* Trustpilot rating is important to us, so we encourage you to browse our reviews. They speak for themselves and that's why you are in safe hands.
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