Wharekauhau Country Estate

Wharekauhau Country Estate is a gracious luxury lodge set on a vast private farm overlooking the dramatic clifftops of Palliser Bay in the Wairarapa. Framed by the Remutaka Ranges and the Pacific Ocean, the estate blends the warmth of a traditional country house with polished, understated luxury, offering a deeply immersive sense of place just over an hour from Wellington. 

At the heart of the estate sits the grand Edwardian‑style Lodge, where guests gather for farm‑to‑table meals, fireside conversations and relaxed evenings overlooking the sea. Accommodation is discreetly scattered across the property, ensuring privacy, space and uninterrupted views. 

Accommodation

Cottage Suites

Dotted throughout the estate, Wharekauhau’s Cottage Suites provide an intimate, stand‑alone retreat with sweeping views across Palliser Bay. Each suite features a generous bedroom, cozy sitting area with fireplace, spa‑style bathroom and a private terrace. These suites are ideal for couples seeking refined comfort and a strong connection to the surrounding landscape while remaining close to the main Lodge.

Foley Villa

The Foley Villa offers the ultimate in privacy and space — a three‑bedroom luxury residence set slightly apart from the main Lodge yet fully connected to the estate experience. Designed in a light, Hamptons‑inspired style, the villa features open‑plan living, ensuite bedrooms, outdoor entertaining areas and a private infinity pool overlooking the bay. Perfect for families or private groups, it allows guests to enjoy Wharekauhau as their own secluded coastal estate.

Dining

Dining at Wharekauhau is a celebration of land and season. Menus are crafted around produce from the estate’s gardens, nearby farms and local waters, with an emphasis on simple, elegant flavours that reflect the region. Meals are shared in the Lodge’s dining room or, when conditions allow, outdoors — unhurried, personal and deeply connected to place. 

Experiences

Guests are invited to experience the estate as they choose — whether through guided farm tours and sheep‑station experiences, coastal walks and e‑biking, tennis or quiet moments by the pool. Adventure‑seekers can explore the land by ATV or venture further afield to Cape Palliser or the Martinborough wine region, while others may prefer fireside wine tastings or long, restorative days immersed in the landscape. Throughout, Wharekauhau remains relaxed, generous and deeply authentic — a rare expression of New Zealand country hospitality at its finest.