Settled amongst Martinborough’s sprawling vineyards and lush country gardens, Parehua Resort is the ultimate retreat to stay, relax, revitalise and explore.

In Te Aka Māori, Parehua means ridge or terrace – a landform. An apt name for Martinborough’s Parehua Resort which is found on the edge of the beautiful Southern Wairarapa town, on a small terrace overlooking panoramic views of rolling green hills.

While sweeping gardens guide your eye out to some of the region’s most famous vineyards, it is a destination in its own right. A landform of hidden delights that whether you are there for a night or many more, will stay with you long after you have left.

Described as the ‘perfect expression of a charming country estate’, the foundations of the resort could be described as taste, curiosity, laughter and beauty.  And that is without touching on the heart of their operation – hospitality and people – which bring it all together.

Each of the rooms – 26 cottages and two two-bedroom villas – are beautifully decorated and fitted with everything you need, including things you didn’t know you wanted! A heated pool, tennis court, outdoor hot tubs and onsite bistro will have you struggling to find a reason to leave.

 

For Chrissy Cummings, Parehua is a destination designed to share. ‘We are only 90 minutes from the Wellington Airport. You can come here and escape and disconnect from the city. Whether you want to reconnect with yourself or your family, gather work colleagues, or even host an event, we have something for everyone.

‘We want to make the time people have with us the best that we can and that means we like to work closely with our guests to create what they want, or need,’ she continues. ‘Whether it is shared platters in the room on a girls’ weekend, or recommending activities for your family, we are there to support, guide and assist as much – or as a little – as people want.

‘We all step back from the world in different ways, at different times for different reasons. Parehua scales to meet visitors’ needs to relax, invent, play, gather or solve. We want our guests to feel connected to the spaces we have created so that they can immerse themselves in making memories with those around them.’ 

People are at the heart of what they do and Chrissy is all too aware that it is not just the people that come to stay who are important. ‘There is power in connectivity,’ she shares with a smile. ‘And our role within our community, and with those who come to stay, is to build and share that sense of connection.’

Something she and her team do in spades. No matter who you encounter during your stay, there is a friendly smile to be found and plenty of insight into the surrounding region to be shared, ensuring other hidden gems, not just your accommodation, are uncovered during your time in Martinborough.

Explore the Wairarapa

Year-round this is a region with loads to offer! From festivals to award-winning wineries, artisan producers and striking natural landscapes, there is plenty to enjoy, experience, eat and drink in South Wairarapa. Chrissy Cummings shares some of her top picks …

Jump on a Bike – Green Jersey Explorer Tour allow you to explore the world-class vineyards and brewery that surround Martinborough.

Artisan Producers – From chocolatiers to olive groves, this is a region bursting with artisan makers and creators, all of which will leave you inspired and excited. You can’t go wrong. One of my favourites is Greytown Honey – get up close and personal with a beekeeping experience, wander through their flower farm and indulge in their divine products.

Shopping – From clothing to antiques, vintage finds and quirky one-offs, there is something for every occasion, aesthetic and budget. Greytown shopping in particular is not to be missed.

Food & Drink – While there are some incredible boutique destinations and restaurants, one of my favourites is Luna Estate and Eclipse Restaurant. Their Asian-inspired menu is centred around sustainable, authentic cuisine and crafted to elevate the wine.

The Night Sky – Wairarapa has an official Dark Sky Reserve status meaning the night sky is among the best places in the world to view the never-ending star-filled skies above, so make sure you spend some time looking up!

parehuaresort.co.nz