Historic Homesteads

Ashcott Homestead, Ashley Clinton

Ashcott Homestead has stood for 160 years as a grand reminder of the prosperity of this fascinating region. Positioned in ten beautiful acres from the original 20,000 acre estate, the home and gardens retain their significant place in New Zealand history and invite travellers to relax and take in the delights of the surrounding countryside. The homestead features three beautifully appointed bedrooms with private bathrooms; modern comforts add to the feeling of luxury and indulgence. John and Giovanni will ensure your stay is unforgettable and enjoyable, providing warm hospitality and local advice pertaining to events and places that will enhance your Central Hawkes Bay experience.

Gwavas Garden and Homestead, Tikokino

Soak up over 120 years of living history at Gwavas Garden and Homestead. The homestead is category 1 listed with Heritage New Zealand and contains one of the best examples of interior Totara panelling in New Zealand, a majestic Rimu staircase back lit by a huge stained glass window containing the family’s Marshalling of Arms. The homestead has three lovely available for bed and breakfast-style accommodation and is situated in the middle of a mature nine-hectare Woodland Garden of National Significance, the oldest plantings dating back to 1860. Enjoy Phyllida and Stuart’s relaxed hospitality while you explore Hawke’s Bay.

Mt Vernon Villa, Waipukurau

Mt Vernon Villa is a Grade A Heritage Building, recently renovated and refurbished, with six large bedrooms and stunning gardens. Many historic touches remain throughout this home. The beautiful entrance features a grand foyer with chandeliers, a circular Kauri staircase leads to the upstairs bedrooms, and the original library houses more than 2000 books, with many dating back to the 1800s. The original gardens of this 35-acre estate were laid out by landscape designers from Kew Gardens with a variety of specimen trees shipped in from many parts of the world, including Europe and South America, over 100 years ago.

Wallingford, Pōrangahau

Wallingford Homestead sits at the heart of a large sheep and beef station, built between 1853 and 1854 for the Ormond family. The home is over 1000 square metres in size, and uniquely single storied when many other homes of the time were several stories high. Managers Chris and Jeanette Stockdale, formerly of Double Bay in Sydney, have stamped their mark on Wallingford, creating an incredible fine dining experience for guests and visitors. Chris is a celebrated chef and Jeanette a fantastic host. Wallingford can accommodate 24 guests across several wings of the house, with large communal living areas, outdoor courtyard and expansive gardens. 

Oruawharo Homestead, Takapau

Built nearly 140 years old, Oruawharo Homestead is steeped in history, having played a major role in the history and development of Central Hawke’s Bay. Sitting proudly in Takapau amongst 17 hectares of wonderful gardens, large trees and several outbuildings, Oruawharo’s history is full of aristocracy, grand house parties and lavish events, but also a time as a Territorial Army camp and even a host venue for an Army mutiny! Rob, Dr Erica, Will & Bianca invite visitors to share their pleasure in the charm of their historic homestead, historic church and gardens. The restaurant is also open every Friday evening from 5pm - bookings recommended.

Woburn Homestead, Waipukurau

Woburn is a spectacular homestead fully restored from 1893, listed with the New Zealand Historic Places Trust. A 4.5 star Qualmark-rated Bed and Breakfast, Woburn can also host private functions and parties, cooking classes, weddings and special dinners. Everything, from the fine quality Italian chandeliers, antique furniture and guest suites, the food and the service have been carefully chosen to pamper guests with a fabulous experience.