Wharekauhau Country Estate

Wharekauhau Country Estate, a luxury estate in Palliser Bay

Wharekauhau Country Estate is a private property of more than 3,000 acres set on the coast of Palliser Bay, in the Wairarapa region, where the Rimutaka Range meets the sea. The property combines its status as a working sheep station with refined, understated luxury accommodation, and presents itself as a place where the landscape, history, and guest experience are closely intertwined.

The estate is described as a space of grand scale but intimate feel: pastures that reach down to the ocean, native forests that hide trails, and a coastline of rugged beauty. It is not conceived as a traditional hotel, but as a private property where space, privacy, and personalised experience come first.

Accommodation: 16 Cottage Suites and private villas

The accommodation is arranged in 16 Cottage Suites distributed across the grounds, along with private villas and cottages perched high on the clifftops, with sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean. The rooms are described as having natural light, country-style kitchens, and spaces designed for comfort and intimacy. The offering also includes the Foley Villa.

A working sheep station

Wharekauhau is a living sheep station where farm work, the seasons, and traditions set the rhythm of the property. The estate was once known for its world-class sheep breeding, an activity that attracted visitors and farmers from across the country and remains part of its identity. Experiences linked to this activity include 4WD farm tours, with sheepdog and shearing demonstrations.

Dining and wine

The culinary offering is defined as simple, seasonal, and completely personal. The chefs craft each meal using fresh produce from the estate's gardens and local farms, with sustainability and New Zealand flavours at the forefront. The estate is located at the gateway to Martinborough, an area known for its wine experiences, and offers access to the region's vineyards. The catalogue includes a Foley wine tour with private helicopter transfers between North Island and South Island vineyards, featuring Foley wines and a gourmet picnic.

Experiences on the estate and around it

The activity offering spans archery with expert instruction, traditional and modern bows, and both stationary and 3D targets; quad bike rides along black sand beaches; coastal e-bike tours; and helicopter experiences. Clay target shooting, coastal walks, wellness, and stargazing under some of the country's clearest skies are also mentioned.

History and heritage

The land of Wharekauhau has deep cultural significance and was originally cared for by Ngāti Kahungunu, whose connection to the region remains part of its identity. In the 19th century the property evolved into a sheep station, known for its agricultural excellence and its tradition of welcoming those who passed through. Since the 1840s, the estate has been a place where hospitality and heritage have come together.

Day guests, events, and other services

The estate welcomes day guests, who can enjoy a 'Trust the Chef' lunch, the spa, a quad bike ride, or clay target shooting. The offering is completed with packages and offers, wedding and event celebrations, and gift vouchers. The property is part of Foley Entertainment Group and is privately managed.

Location and contact

4132 Wharekauhau Road RD3 Featherston, Palliser Bay 5773 New Zealand · Phone: +64 (0) 6 3077581 · Email: reservations@wharekauhau.co.nz