Welcome to the Haurata experience

'Gisborne's best kept secret'

• Breathe the clean mountain air
• Drink the pure spring water
• Discover the pleasures of living in the remote hills of Gisborne.

The 12.5 km drive up the Makaretu Rd to Haurata is a unique experience. The land formed by ancient fault lines creates distinctive features with bluffs and fascinating rock sculptures.

Situated between Gisborne and Opotiki, Haurata Retreat is approximately 65km from Gisborne city and approximately 24km east of Matawai village, and is a great way to complete an around the East Cape journey.

• Relax in the cosy fully self contained four bedroom house, with a gas heated outdoor hot tub and a large deck.
• The authenic shearers quarters have been renovated and is now used as backpacker accommodation.
• There is an original old shearing shed in the garden which is still operational.
• Enjoy the large landscaped rhododendron garden with deciduous and ever green trees,organic fruit trees, two avenues of cherry trees, a spiral garden and ceremonial area.
• A narrow track leads from the garden into the native bush with paths going down to a beautiful rocky river. Spot the glow worms in the evening or go eeling.
• This is a truley magnficant experience for nature lovers. The river is a play ground for the adventurous with rockslides, swimming holes and waterfalls.
• Haurata is a farmstay and observe farmers at work, maybe mustering sheep with dogs or working in or around the main woolshed.
• Guests have the freedom to explore 1000 ha of fascinating high country.
• Tackle one of the three day walks which provide some of Gisbornes most stunning scenery.
• Bring your horse or mountain bike with you and ride the various farm tracks and hills - the small paddocks are ideal for horses
• Savour the delicious wholesome meals using fresh produce from our gardens and the local area, if you requiry the catering service.

Click here (PDF) to read the article about Haurata by Marianne Gillingham from The Gisborne Herald's Sample magazine (Gisborne's lifestyle and fashion magazine).