Heritage homestead, retreat, mountain views, peace

Fairholme is one of the oldest settler homes in Golden Bay. Built in 1870 and in near original condition still with remnants of early buildings; the outdoor kitchen/bakery and buttery, stables and original East Takaka Post Office. The house is situated up the beautiful farmland of East Takaka Road, the original old coach road. Nestled on 4.5 acres at the base of the Pikikiruna Range and western boundary of Abel Tasman National Park, Gorge Creek on South boundary and main outlook over the lush valley towards mountains and forests of Kahurangi National Park.

This large, gracious home, rich with colonial charm has only a small but functional kitchen but despite this, is an ideal destination for two families or large group.
The wild heritage gardens are filled with trees and birds, and tracks lead through bush and forest to Gorge Creek which in summer is dry except after reasonable rainfall when the swimming hole fills up.

Sunny verandas and an upstairs balcony offer private spaces for barbeques, sunbathing and peace.
The neighbourhood is rural and quiet apart from birdsong. The road from Fairholme to Takaka (10 k’s) is sealed through farmland, passing by the historic church, original school and early settler cemetery of the 1860’s and two private gardens open to public. Egress in the opposite direction, 6 km to the main road is unsealed and windy, passing funky alternative hillside properties.
Fairholme is 5 minutes to the hospital, 10 minutes to Takaka township and Paynes Ford swimming hole and Pohara beach; Rameka Track and the Grove are en route.

The home is furnished in colonial style with a mix of New Zealand artwork including work of the two artist owners, plus historic photographs and a written history of the home and original family.
Special conditions:
Smoking allowed outside only.
No candles inside please.
Small children require attention; uncovered ponds and high verandas.
Pets allowed with prior approval.
Families preferred.
Footwear required on some tracks; historic debris in places.
No parties please . If there is shorter spaces between bookings there may be flexibility on length of stay , please inquire.
Please leave the house in clean condition - or a cleaner can be purchased if you prefer.

Extras: Cleaning (Optional, NZ$100.00 per stay); Linen (included);