Stay on a fourth-generation sheep and beef station in the heart of Hawke's Bay. Rabbiter's Cottage is a charming historic farm cottage beside the Te Aratipi homestead, surrounded by rolling hill country and native bush. Enjoy a genuine slice of rural New Zealand life while exploring nearby beaches, waterfalls, wineries and walking trails. Peaceful, comfortable and full of character, it's the perfect base for couples and families wanting an authentic Hawke's Bay farm stay.
Rabbiter's Cottage sits beside our Te Aratipi homestead on a fourth-generation sheep and beef station in the heart of Hawke's Bay. While the driveway is shared with our family, the cottage enjoys its own private garden, outdoor fire pit and peaceful rural setting.
Guests are welcome to enjoy the cottage garden, orchard and surrounding woodland during their stay. Challenge family and friends to a game of croquet, kubb or tennis (summer months), relax beneath the trees, or simply slow down and enjoy the peace and quiet of rural life.
You may also meet some of our friendly farm characters, including Tex the pet lamb, Daisy the calf, our Indian runner ducks, the chickens (who often provide the breakfast eggs), and Tag, our much-loved Labrador.
There is plenty to explore nearby. Waimārama Beach is just 12 minutes away, Mohi Bush is a short 5-minute drive, and the beautiful Maraetōtara Falls can be reached in around 20 minutes. Guests are also welcome to enjoy our private bush walk located across the road from the cottage.
For those wanting to experience more of Te Aratipi, we offer a range of optional experiences including private farm walks, guided farm tours and our unique nine-hole farm golf course (additional charges apply).
Guests are welcome to enjoy the cottage garden, orchard and surrounding woodland during their stay. Pick fruit from the orchard when it's in season, relax in the hammock beneath the trees, or challenge family and friends to a game of croquet, kubb or tennis (the tennis court is generally available during the summer months).
The cottage also has its own private garden and outdoor fire pit area — the perfect place to unwind at the end of the day, enjoy a glass of wine, and take in the peace and quiet of the surrounding countryside.
Guests are also welcome to enjoy our private bush walk located across the road from the cottage.
If you'd like to experience more of Te Aratipi during your stay, we offer a range of optional experiences including self-guided farm walks, guided farm tours and our unique nine-hole farm golf course. We'd be delighted to tell you more during your stay.
Rabbiter's Cottage is located on a working sheep and beef station beside our family homestead. From time to time you may hear the sounds of farm life, including farm vehicles, working dogs and day-to-day farming activities.
Mobile reception can be limited in the valley. Complimentary WiFi is available in the cottage, although speeds may be slower than guests are accustomed to in town. We recommend downloading maps and directions before travelling to the property.
Families are very welcome. As parents ourselves, we can provide a portacot, high chair, baby bath and a selection of toys by prior arrangement. Please let us know what you may need before your arrival.
During your stay you may meet some of our friendly farm characters, including Tex the pet lamb, Daisy the calf, our Indian runner ducks, chickens and Aly, a very friendly horse who lives nearby.
You will also likely be greeted by Tag, our much-loved Labrador. He is gentle, friendly and enjoys meeting guests, but we are happy to keep him away if preferred.
If you would like to experience more of Te Aratipi during your stay, we offer a range of optional experiences including farm walks, guided farm tours and our unique nine-hole farm golf course.
As a family-owned and operated farm, we genuinely enjoy welcoming guests to Te Aratipi and are always happy to help if needed. Whether you have questions before your stay or would like recommendations during your visit, we're never far away.
At the same time, we understand that many guests come here to relax and unwind, so we completely respect your privacy and invite you to enjoy the cottage and surrounding countryside at your own pace.
If you're looking for local recommendations, we'd be delighted to share our favourite beaches, walks, wineries, restaurants and hidden gems around Hawke's Bay. For those wanting to experience more of Te Aratipi, we're also happy to tell you about the walks, farm experiences and seasonal activities available during your stay.