RIDGELINE HOMESTEAD & ECO SANCTUARY WANAKA NEW ZEALAND
We are delighted to introduce you to the Ridgeline Homestead, Cottages and Eco Sanctuary at Mahu Whenua.
Located in New Zealand s South Island, just 20 minutes drive from Wanaka or 15 minutes helicopter transfer from Queenstown Airport, this luxury lodge offers four beautiful Ridgeline Suites and is also available on an exclusive-use basis for up to 12 guests. RIDGELINE HOMESTEAD & COTTAGES
What is Mahu Whenua? Mahu Whenua is made up of four adjoining high country sheep stations owned by renowned international record producer Mutt Lange and stretches all the way from Wanaka through to Queenstown. Mahu Whenua guests will enjoy total privacy and impressive views on over 55,000 hectares (550sq km or 200 sq miles) of majestic beauty towering mountains, lush green valleys, native bush, forests and meandering rivers. What makes Mahu Whenua so very special is its magical story. From the start, the owner s vision has been to regenerate the land after years of high country farming. In addition to introducing sustainable farming practices he has started an extensive plant regeneration and native bird breeding programme which has been an enormous success. To ensure that the owner s conservation initiatives continue, more than 90% of the land has been protected by covenants (Queen Elizabeth II National Trust), making it the largest conservation undertaking on private land in New Zealand s history. The name Mahu Whenua aptly translates to healing the land. Guests can take conservation tours, feed the native birds and contribute to the healing process. Map courtesy of the QEII National Trust
Wanaka, New Zealand Wanaka is a four-season resort nestled at the base of the Southern Alps Mountain Range. The village is situated on the shores of Lake Wanaka and overlooks some of New Zealand s most scenic landscapes. A favourite destination for New Zealanders, Wanaka now welcomes guests from around the world wanting to experience the immense mountains, serene valleys and rivers and charming restaurants, shops and cafes all within an easy stroll of each other in the township.
Ridgeline Homestead & Cottages THE HOMESTEAD The Ridgeline Homestead was built in 2007 as the original New Zealand home for the owners. Some clever redesigning of the interiors has been undertaken and now it s opening its doors to guests for the very first time. As soon as they arrive, guests can relax, absorb the breathtaking views and be indulged by our attentive team. The Homestead has a rustic design with modern features to ensure easy living. A sprawling farmhouse kitchen, large open living room, dining room and media room provide endless spaces to unwind. Numerous outdoor locations allow guests to simply sit and absorb the view, dine outside or lounge beside the pool. The helipad on the front lawn is perfect for easy transfers or heli-based activities.
The Accommodation THE RIDGELINE SUITES The four luxurious Ridgeline Suites offer incredible views and supreme privacy. Sleeping two people each, they feature a king-split bed and ensuite with bath and are equipped with Wi-Fi, TV and a telephone. The Suites boast uninterrupted views of Mt Aspiring National Park and Lake Wanaka or the Motatapu Valley and stables.
MEDIA & GAMES ROOM HOMESTEAD KITCHEN
The Accommodation EXCLUSIVE USE With exclusive-use bookings, 12 guests can be accommodated with use of all four luxury Ridgeline Suites as well as the Komako family bunkroom which can sleep up to four guests. There is also a nanny/ security room in the Homestead which can sleep two extra staff. All stays are fully hosted with a dedicated concierge team and creative and innovative chefs to cater exceptional cuisine and award-winning local wines.
What can guests enjoy? Our range of activities are exclusive to guests at Mahu Whenua. Our guest s personal concierge will help handcraft their stay to suit their personal requirements and ensure a fine balance between indulging in leisure pursuits at the Homestead (including spa treatments, yoga, poolside time or cooking classes) and exploring the four private high country stations (by 4WD, helicopter, biking, hiking or horse riding). Mahu Whenua guided activities include, but are not limited to, horse trekking through green valleys and meandering rivers; hiking around alpine lakes and tarns; exploring the remnants left from the gold mining days; overnight stays at shepherds cottages; heli excursions (including heli-skiing in winter); mountain biking the many trails; and 4WD adventures. Guests may also wish to see the working farm in action, feed the weka and learn about the eco-sanctuary, or just unwind with a picnic alongside pristine alpine rivers.
Experience the region It is just a short distance by air to Milford Sound and the Fiordland region. A helicopter will pick guests up from the front lawn of the Ridgeline Homestead. There are various activities that make the most of this proximity. Imagine flying over mountains and glaciers to the wild and remote West Coast beaches in Fiordland National Park where a guide can catch crayfish and cook it on a mountain top for lunch! Hunting and fishing are additional off-site activities available for our guests, as well as lots of winter and water sports options.
Food and wine The Mahu Whenua chef is on hand to create and innovate to suit all tastes. Guests will start the day with a beautiful leisurely breakfast and then tailor the rest of the day s meals to match their chosen activities. Guests may elect a poolside lunch or a picnic down beside the river; or in the evening, a barbecue or more formal dinner in the dining room. The large farmhouse kitchen lends itself to guests chatting with the chef over a glass of award-winning local wine while masterpieces are prepared. All our wines are hand selected and offer a true taste of New Zealand s very special vintages.
RIDGELINE HOMESTEAD & ECO SANCTUARY WANAKA NEW ZEALAND