Gisborne Catered Walks
and Accommodation
Gisborne Catered Walks
and Accommodation
In 1996 Jaguar and Shakahn Kukulcan bought the property and proceeded to remove all the small farm paddocks to form the 7ha grounds that are here today.
The Kukulcans did a huge amount of work in the garden landscaping and planting over 600 rhododendrons, avenues of cherries, fruit trees and loads of deciduous and evergreen trees. Walking tracks were cut through a small patch of native bush down to the river. They had the place looking immaculate.
In 2005 they sold the property to a German and for the next two years the gardens went wild.
We bought the property in 2007 and with a large mob of sheep we managed to get the grass under control, now a few sheep graze the grounds which give it a natural park like appearance.
The native bush was fenced off unobtusively as possible. The gardens aren’t to the same standard as the Kukulcans had them but we have tried to keep the tranquillity and the essence.
"So far our stay at Haurata has been the highlight of our two month travels through NZ. Our family of four booked the Backpackers Cottage and enjoyed a long, stunning walk in the hills which we are still talking about days later. The cottage is rustic to be certain but in a wonderful way. The large farmhouse table creates a perfect centerpiece to the cabin. If rustic isn't your cup of tea, the main house looked lovely. The surrounding landscape may be the prettiest we have ever seen. Jane and Warwick could not have been more delightful and welcoming hosts. We just wish we could have stayed longer!"
"Our trip in NZ was great and wonderful and your place was one of the very best. And when Rachel came and made food to us, it was so nice. Hope you will tell her that she was one of the best chef for cooking on our trip, we would like to have talked more with her, because we had been in a good company. But we hope to come back to NZ again, and if we go to NZ, sure we will contact you, and we all can meet again."
"The environment was absolutely stunning, we've never seen this kind of high country in the North Island. The waterfalls were like something out of a movie and we had them absolutely and exclusively to ourselves. To relax in the hot tub after a great day's walking was bliss. We felt like we had the whole farm to ourselves. Can't wait to get back."
"The lucky members and guests of the Gisborne Camera Club who got to spend the weekend at Haurata were very impressed with the accommodation provided and the stunning location. Having the different levels of accomodation with the house and the backpackers and twin share and double bedrooms was good for the variety of club members and made the weekend affordable for more members. Having a fully equiped kitchen and a pantry and fridge already stocked with some basics and fresh fruit, made it easy to just arrive at the house and settle in. With the Fire going in the evenings the house was soon incredibly cosy and nice to relax in after a day out walking, and the hot tub provided extra comfort for those who had been on the longest walks. The variety of walks, from short walks around the amazing garden and bushwalks, to longer walks over stunning hill country and down to the river with a series of waterfalls, provided for the varying fitness levels and photographic interests of club members. Everyone was able to find what suited them and get some amazing images and memories. The walks were very well laid out with markers all the way along and maps provided so you always felt secure and knew you would not get lost. Thanks very much to the very generous hosts Jane and Warwick for an amazing weekend, from the Gisborne Camera Club."
"We were made very welcome by Jane & Warwick, even to a cuppa out on the farm & back at the homested. The food was fantastic (put on weight),always on time & lots of it. The house was great, felt like our own home. The walks were a challenge but really interesting. Jane was great describing which to do when, given the weather conditions.
This is the best walk of the 5 we have done. Are promoting Haurata to all our friends, not just the walk, but even to spend a few days there & enjoy the gardens & short walks."
