Our unique homestead is the perfect place to come and see the history of our land and enjoy the features nearby, include the bird sanctuary.
Bird Sanctuary
Featuring some of New Zealand's spectacular native birdlife, the Sanctuary is home to such species as the Hihi (Stitchbird) and the Tieke (Saddleback). You may also be able to spot the diminutive Toutouwai (North Island Black Robin), and the majestic Kereru (NZ Wood Pigeon).
Listen out for the beautiful song of the Tui, Korimako (Bellbird), and Ruru (Morepork), while finding yourself in the company of the well-known locals such as Fantails, Kingfishers, Black Swans, Mallards, Pukeko, Silvereye and many more.
A number of successful releases of native bird species within the protection of the predator-proof fence have been undertaken, including North Island Brown Kiwi, North Island Robins and Saddlebacks. A revegetation project in the wetland area has commenced, extending the bird's natural environment.
- The entry fee is only $10.00 per adult while children 15 years and under, and "Friends of Bushy Park" are free. This gives you access to the homestead, the homestead grounds and the forest.
- Summer opening hours from December to April are 10am to 3pm during the week and 10am to 5pm at weekends and holidays.
- Winter opening hours for the forest from May to November are 11 am until 4 pm daily but closed on Mondays.
Bushwalks you have a choice of 10 tracks through the forest area varying in length from 5 minutes to 2 hours. Well signposted near the homestead, the walks are well-formed and fairly flat ensuring your hikes or wanderings are very enjoyable.
There is a range of vegetation from farmland to mature Rimu-Matai forest and is home to the biggest Rata tree in the North Island. Known as 'Ratanui' (meaning "Big Rata") it is estimated to be between 500 and 1000 years old. The revegetation project undertaken by Forest & Bird Society members in the wetland area has included planting such species as Rimu, Pukatea, Mahoe, Karamu, Hangehange, Pigeonwood, Kawakawa, NZ flax, and Toetoe.
Essential Stay Info
Eating and Drinking
Room rate includes continental breakfast. Meals and food available on request including cooked breakfasts, lunches, picnic hampers and dinner (main and dessert)
Once checked-in, guests can enjoy the hospitality in the same manner the original guests would have. Dine in the dining room or out on the deck in the warmer months or, during winter, relax in the guest lounge with a glass of wine in front of the fire before retiring to your room. Guests are welcome to Tea and coffee making facilities.
Breakfast Not Available
Dinner Not Available
Lunch Not Available
Bedding Configuration
1 x Queen bed
1 x Single bed
1 x Queen bed
1 x Single bed
More info about the property
Dedication to preserving period features, and the properties significant historic importance, has seen the rooms reflect the style and ambiance of its early years. Beautiful wood paneling, open firepl...
Dedication to preserving period features, and the properties significant historic importance, has seen the rooms reflect the style and ambiance of its early years. Beautiful wood paneling, open fireplaces, bay windows and antique furniture feature throughout, while retaining the cozy, comfortable and homely feel the guests enjoy.
As guests in our Bed and Breakfast, you will live as the guests of the past did, with spacious rooms and delicious home style cooking.
This room has one queen-sized double bed and one single bed, and antique furnishings giving you a sense of stepping back in time. The window has north-east farm views.
Room rate includes continental breakfast.
Family Friendly
Single Safe
Sorry, we can't accommodate dogs
Unique kiwi experiences for you
Visit the Bird Sanctuary, home to such species as the Hihi (Stitchbird) and the Tieke (Saddleback)
Soak up the beauty of the Historical building with wood paneling, open fireplaces, bay windows and antique furniture throughout
Take a walk on well-signposted, well-formed and fairly flat tracks through the forest, nearby the homestead
Historical Site
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What we love about this property
We are part of a fully enclosed predator free Bird Sanctuary, and are is a Category One heritage building preserved very much in its original state.
We are part of a fully enclosed predator free Bird Sanctuary, and are is a Category One heritage building preserved very much in its original state.
Activities on or nearby this property
Nature Walks
Nature Walks and Tramps
Amenities
Birdlife
Caravan accessible
Good mobile service
North Island
Property Manager on site
Rubbish bin
RV/Motorhome accessible
Sealed roads only
Unique Accommodation
Wifi Available
Paid extras you might like to add
These will be available to select during the booking progress
Let your hosts know of any dietary requirements you may have, or select from a fixed menu of sumptuous country-style meals.
Reviews
5 out of 5! Beautifully presented Homestead, a joy sitting on the veranda sipping tea in Bone China cups! Stunning setting, a wonderful day out. Have a wander around the sanctuary and then a coffee to relax after.
We explored the park, had a delightful cream tea and toured the Homestead. It's a beautiful old house, with fabulous views from all the rooms. An idyllic venue for a special occasion. Ample parking. Comfortable, beautifully appointed bedrooms in keeping with the history of the house. Continental breakfast included, and they will provide an evening meal at a reasonable price on request. As one might expect in a historic house, no en-suite facilities. Instead, there's a shared ladies' toilet with shower and the same for the gents. We didn't find this a drawback, and will be planning a weekend stay later this year for our anniversary.
My husband and I spent two nights here and we both agree that it was an awesome experience. Dale, our host, went out of his way to make sure we had everything we needed, cooked great food! and provided us with a very interesting history of the homestead.
Being a nature photographer I thoroughly enjoyed being so close to the birds and being able to capture some beautiful photographs while I was staying there.
The homestead was like stepping back in time but still being very comfortable with it. Hearing the old hand-wound gramophone working and enjoying the company of the other guests before, during and after dinner made for a very enjoyable evening. Thank you, Dale, for such wonderful hospitality! We will be back.
About your host, Wendy
We look forward to welcoming you to our place.
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