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Aotea Homestead

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Beach - Aotea Homestead (Hinakura)
Fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop - Aotea Homestead (Hinakura)
TV, fireplace, DVD player, stereo - Aotea Homestead (Hinakura)
Exterior - Aotea Homestead (Hinakura)
3 bedrooms, bed sheets - Aotea Homestead (Hinakura)
Travelers find respite in Hinakura Valley at Aotea Homestead, a restored 1914 farm stay ideal for groups. The working sheep and beef station offers outdoor games, tennis, and scenic walks. With no cell reception and limited WiFi, guests reconnect with each other.

Reviews

9.0 out of 10
Wonderful

Entire home

3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 13

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Outdoor space
  • Parking available
  • Barbecue grill
  • Fireplace

Add dates for prices

About this property

Aotea Homestead

  • Built in 1914 and lovingly restored, Aotea Homestead is a truly special retreat for families, friends, and nature lovers. Set on a working sheep and beef station in the picturesque Hinakura Valley, just 25 minutes east of Martinborough’s wine village and 16 km from the rugged Pahaoa Coast, it’s a place where serenity meets adventure.

    Unplug & Reconnect
    With no cell phone reception and limited Wi-Fi, Aotea Homestead offers the perfect chance to slow down, reconnect with loved ones, and enjoy uninterrupted quality time. Linen and towels are provided – simply bring your food and settle in.

    Things to Do
    - Lawn tennis court and outdoor games
    - Sandpit for the kids
    - Scenic farm walks with opportunities to feed animals (especially delightful in spring)
    - Nearby river with a swimming hole
    - Rugged coastline just 20 minutes away
    - Horse treks available within 40 minutes
    - Rainy day? Board games and Sky TV are ready to keep everyone entertained

    There is also seasonal fruit available, and our water is sourced from a natural spring.

    Guest Wing Accommodation
    - Fully equipped kitchen
    - Two lounges for relaxing
    - Three bedrooms:
    - Bedroom 1: Ensuite, double bed + single bed
    - Bedroom 2: Large dorm-style room with king bed + 3 singles
    - Bedroom 3: Double bed
    - Additional sleeping: Fold-out double sofa bed + pop-up bed
    - Sleeps up to 13 guests comfortably

    Your Hosts
    Karen & Clayton Hartnell live on-site and are available if you need assistance. Guests enjoy complete privacy with an entire wing of the Homestead including their own separate entry.

    Unique Extras
    - Guided hunts for wild pigs and deer (by arrangement)
    - Aotea Cottage also available (sleeps 5 – see separate listing)

Property amenities

Parking and transport

  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Electric kettle
  • Hob
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Refrigerator
  • Toaster

Bedrooms

  • 3 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 2 bathrooms
  • Shower
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Fireplace

Entertainment

  • DVD player
  • Games
  • Stereo
  • TV with cable/satellite channels

Outdoor areas

  • Barbecue grill
  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Porch/lanai

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Comfort

  • Heating

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoke-free property

Location highlights

  • In a village

Things to do

  • Tennis
  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Hunting nearby
  • Mountain biking nearby
  • Swimming nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • Fire extinguisher

General

  • Garden

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Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 2:00 PM

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Pets

Pets not allowed

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome

Events

Events allowed
Upon approval of owner

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business or profession.
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Parties and events are allowed on site
Note from host: Upon approval of owner
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
If you cancel your booking, you'll be subject to the host's cancellation policy. In accordance with UK consumer law, property booking services are not subject to the right of withdrawal.

About the area

Hinakura is home to this holiday home. Stonehenge Aotearoa and Cobblestones Village Museum are local landmarks, and some of the area's activities can be experienced at Te Kairanga Wines and Martinborough Vineyard. Discover the area's water adventures with fishing and swimming nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with hiking and cycling. Visit our Hinakura travel guide
View more Holiday homes in Hinakura
Map
Hinakura, Martinborough

Frequently asked questions

Is Aotea Homestead pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much is parking at Aotea Homestead?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Aotea Homestead?

Check-in begins at 2:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Aotea Homestead?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Aotea Homestead located?

Set in Hinakura, this family-friendly holiday home is within 20 mi (32 km) of Te Kairanga Wines, Martinborough Golf Club and Martinborough Vineyard. Luna Estate Winery and Poppies Martinborough Winery are also within 20 miles (32 km).

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Aotea Homestead Reviews

Reviews

Wonderful

All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travellers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
More informationOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 43 out of 76 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 26 out of 76 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 6 out of 76 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 76 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 76 reviews

8.6

Cleanliness

8.8

Location

Reviews

Verified

8/10 Good

Alexandra H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Relaxing holiday getaway

A perfect destination for our family gathering... really relaxing and comfortable and accommodated our needs perfectly. Hosts were on site but not at all intrusive and really friendly and helpful at the same time. A great stay.
Stayed 5 nights in Jan 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Michael C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Nice

Very peace place to stay and the owners are very friendly!
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Joshua R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had a wonderful stay and would definitely recommend to anyone. Hopefully we have the opportunity to return one day. Thank you again
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tania J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful

Great location, amazing home
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2024
Verified

8/10 Good

Glenn B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Aotea Farm Homestay

An interesting historical property that coped well with a large group. The road in is a bit challenging given the loss of the usual route from Martinborough but we enjoyed our stay
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2023
Verified

8/10 Good

Jeannie B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Gre

Very nice owners and a lovely property. We loved the place but found thd directions quite confusing .
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Alison M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Family Retreat

We were worried about the road after reading a previous review, but no need to be. Driving was on a normal gravel road, and while it did feel a long time, the road was worth it to get to the lovely old homestead. It gave us townies a real country retreat.and it was a joy to have time with our grown children and their families, all together yet enough space to not feel crowded. We stayed in the cottage also which was great as an overflow for our large numbers. The tennis court and sandpit covered most peoples needs and a good selection of games/toys completed our wants. Well equipped kitchen. Fantastic hosts.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2023
Verified

6/10 Okay

Paul S.

Misleading listing

Listing is misleading as due to long term road closure between Martinborough and the property (expected to be on going for a year) that was not mentioned in the listing or at the time of booking. The actual time on the only other route from Martinborough is well over an hour on a poor road that damaged our car to the extent we had to hire a rental. We would not have booked this place had we known the condition of the road.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2022
Verified

6/10 Okay

Blair M.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Disliked: Cleanliness

Perfect location to get away with family

We choose this home as it was a remote location and had no cell phone or internet access - great to get everyone to disconnect. Although access is now more difficult (due to a slip blocking the road out of Martinborough) the journey was worth it. You need to factor in a good 1.5hrs from Carterton depending on the road conditions and be prepared to drive through a farm station. Although long, we loved journeying through the station and appreciating this remote part of rural NZ. The property is as described and the outdoor activities are great for the kids with tennis, cricket, badminton and swimming down the river. The only downside is the property is a little tired and wasn't quite as clean as we would have liked. Also, given the current situation with access you need to take everything you might want - we planned out our meals as it is a 3 hour round trip to Carterton if you forget something. The hosts were very friendly, non-intrusive and only to happy to help with directions to the best river spots etc. They are also relaxed about you exploring their incredible property, the walk to the top is well worth the reward.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2022
Verified

8/10 Good

Rochelle J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely and relaxing

Thank you for hosting us on your working farm! Owners are relaxed and friendly and while they live on site it’s not intrusive. Bit of a trek to get there but peaceful surroundings when there. Lovely visit.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2022
Verified

8/10 Good

hannah M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Country Getaway

It was a great spot for our extended family to spend some quality time. Plenty of room, nice and warm and great location for the kids to play and explore. No cellphone or internet reception at the house (worked in some spots around the farm) but this made for a great way to properly relax.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Rodney S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely spot

The house was great, suited us perfectly and the host was very accommodating.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Christine f.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wairarapa in the Autumn

We all enjoyed our stay at Hinakura, especially the tennis court and the lovely walks on the property. Also the trip to the higher parts of the farm. Special thanks to Clayton.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Rob Z.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing old styled farmhouse

We had a great getaway for the weekend from Wellington and felt like we stepped back in time and explored the area,the house was great and surrounding property!~ really enjoyed the stay,super clean and warm, had the fire going both nights and played sum acoustic guitar and had a few glasses of wine! A great weekend in all ,and I will be back again!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

William S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

The property was beautiful and the views were amazing.

The house and surrounding ammenities are very nice. Be prepared that there is little to no cell service, starting on the road out of Martinborough. Overall the house was fantastic and the hosts were welcoming.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Pip A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Country Retreat

We thoroughly enjoyed our stay here. Accommation as described. Wet weather kept us in more than expected but lots of room and very homey
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Alison M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Hinakura Haven

Great place to stay and play! Clear, friendly and concise comms with owners
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2022
Verified

8/10 Good

Keith M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Country retreat

We loved our stay. Clayton very hospitable and friendly. ( Karen was away). We enjoyed the freedom of being able to walk and run on the farm. Keith caught two fish which we are still eating. The old house is beautiful. Nuu you
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mia L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Good place to stay

The house is quite good, thanks
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ashley S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Boys weekend

The hosts were amazing, will definitely go again such a beautiful place and part of Nz , everyone loved it
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Myriam C.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fantastic property !

WE enjoyed everyday at the house, the garden is amazing and the house is spacious. We had the best stay and we will come back!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Stephanie M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Terrific getaway!

What a fantastic place. It was just wonderful. So cosy too, with the wood burner. We all had lots of fun. We'll be back again. Thank you Karen and Clayton.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2021
Verified

8/10 Good

Tricia W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely old homestead in a tranquil setting

Very relaxing, in a lovely rural setting; a dishwasher and electric blankets for cold nights would have been nice for “urban softies”!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Shona J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful homestead - nice and warm and clean - would recommend

Great experience staying at the beautiful homestead - communication great - would recommend
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2020
Verified

8/10 Good

Ralph S.

Liked: Communication, location, listing accuracy

Rural escape

Fairly remote location suited our needs perfectly. 11 people (2 couldn't make it in the end) with adequate beds for all. Played many games -with the kids- of tennis (no lines on court), croquet (took own set), cricket and nearby (5km trip) swimming hole in stream was a great success given the sunny weather. Took all own food drink - (too far to return to nearest shop for a bottle of milk!) with good cold storage space. Kitchen clean and fairly well-equipped. Good outdoor eating in garden location. Rugged beach not too far away. Owners Karen and Clayton live on site, weren't intrusive and most helpful when needed to assist with any queries,
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2020