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Provence Stone Cottage - Wairarapa Retreat with spring water and natural power

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The Good Life!
....and here we are...
...organic herbs in the front garden...
Exterior
Outdoor dining

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedrooms1+ bathroomSleeps 495 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Pool
  • Kitchen
  • Outdoor space
  • Parking available
  • Barbecue

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 4)

Bedroom 1

1 King Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Single Bunk Bed

1 bathroom, 1 half bathroom

Bathroom 1

Outdoor shower

Bathroom 2

Bathtub · Toilet · Outdoor shower

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Outdoor shower
Kitchen
Kitchenette
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Provence Stone Cottage - Wairarapa Retreat with spring water and natural power


This iconic Provence style Cottage (built by a French theatre set designer) is a much admired eco-friendly and sustainable 2b/r stone cottage built of local stone and native timber with outstanding views of valley, river and mountains. Near to Carterton, Greytown and Masterton to access vineyard and restaurant treats..

In the very private and picturesque setting, drink pure artesian spring water while listening to abundant birds on your sunny veranda. The 225 acre unspoilt property has its own clean solar/hydro power generation system and the water comes from an artesian spring - tested to exceed treated domestic water. This is a heritage 'Dark Sky' site for stargazing.

Go for a bush walk on the property or in the National Park just across the river, explore Mt Holdsworth, go biking, play golf - or sit around the cosy fire and play games, or visit the popular vineyards and restaurants for a vibrant good-time.

Around 20 minutes to Carterton/Greytown/Masterton or less than 30 mins to Martinborough this is an adventure escape that represents the Wairarapa 'good life'. Come and Enjoy our environment and escape pressures for a while!

TRAVEL TIP: You can bring your bike on the train from Wellington and it is a flat 17K ride on rural roads to the Cottage from Carterton rail station.

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House Rules

Check in after 2:00 PM
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

Events allowed
Celebrations only for registered guests
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Pets

No pets allowed
We have a strict no dog policy.
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
Smoking is not allowed anywhere on this property

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Parties and events are allowed on site
Note from host: Celebrations only for registered guests
Long-term renters welcome
This property uses wind and solar energy, plus a grey water recycling system and eco-friendly cleaning products
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
Property Registration Number 7817801

About the area

West Taratahi

Located in West Taratahi, this cottage is in a rural area and on the waterfront. Vintage Aviation Museum and Old Stick & Rudder Company are cultural highlights, and some of the area's activities can be experienced at Gladstone Vineyard and Johner Estate. Travelling with kids? Consider Fell Locomotive Museum, or check out an event or a game at Kartsport Wellington. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
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Map
West Taratahi, Wellington

What's nearby

  • Daysh House Garden - 24 min drive - 20.0 km
  • Vintage Aviation Museum - 27 min drive - 25.2 km
  • Old Stick & Rudder Company - 28 min drive - 25.6 km
  • Aratoi: Wairarapa Museum of Art and History - 31 min drive - 28.4 km
  • Museum of Early Childhood - 32 min drive - 28.4 km

Getting around

  • Kapiti Coast Airport (PPQ) - 103 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Tk’s Wild Gourmet Pies - ‬22 min drive
  • ‪Salt Streetfood - ‬30 min drive
  • ‪The Watermill Bakery - ‬25 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Does Provence Stone Cottage - Wairarapa Retreat with spring water and natural power have a pool?

Yes, this property has a pool.

How much does it cost to stay at Provence Stone Cottage - Wairarapa Retreat with spring water and natural power?

As of 29 Mar 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Provence Stone Cottage - Wairarapa Retreat with spring water and natural power on 18 May 2026 start from AU$115, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

Is Provence Stone Cottage - Wairarapa Retreat with spring water and natural power pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much is parking at Provence Stone Cottage - Wairarapa Retreat with spring water and natural power?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Provence Stone Cottage - Wairarapa Retreat with spring water and natural power?

Check-in begins at 2:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Provence Stone Cottage - Wairarapa Retreat with spring water and natural power?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Provence Stone Cottage - Wairarapa Retreat with spring water and natural power located?

Located on the waterfront, this family-friendly cottage is within 16 mi (25 km) of Vintage Aviation Museum, Queen Elizabeth Park and Old Stick & Rudder Company. Museum of Early Childhood and Aratoi: Wairarapa Museum of Art and History are also within 16 miles (25 km).

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
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Rating 10 - Excellent. 61 out of 72 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 11 out of 72 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 72 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 72 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 72 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

9.8/10

Check-in

9.8/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

8/10 Good

cathy o.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, location, listing accuracy
enjoyed the relaxing , quiet surroundings, good to be off grid for a while.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2026
Verified

8/10 Good

Laura S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great hosts, lively setting, very comfortable. Lovely fire. Enjoyed regular visits from Charlie.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Natalie R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful place, loved sitting on the porch in the mornings and gently exploring the beautiful valley with Charlie the dog.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Cassie R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect getaway

Charlie was the best - what breed is he? Loved the bath and fireplace and the character of the place. Enjoyed playing guitar on the porch, going for walks with our new friend and using the well equipped kitchen. Would love to return.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025
Verified

8/10 Good

colin and vicki d.

Liked: Check-in, communication, listing accuracy

rustic getaway

remote and private authentic european styled stone cottage, reminiscent of centuries old, once off main roads only about 6 km of single lane unsealed road, easily driven.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

John M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Five Days in Provence

This small cottage in the steep, verdant hills of West Taratahi will surely take you back years to a much less hurried and harried time.Unplug your phone and recharge your soul. The repurposed interior doors and rough-hewn kitchen cabinets, counter top and tree-trunk end caps are enchanting. Well done Kieran and Susie.
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Amandine T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A peaceful stay

Cosy stay in a remote and peaceful location, perfect to feel refreshed!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024
Verified

8/10 Good

Heather P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Escape from the rain

We had a cozy stay at the Stone Cottage. Our hosts were very lovely and accommodating, and their very special dog came to visit us for a scratch each night. The surrounding area is gorgeous - even in what turned out to be a rainy couple of days. The sun came out long enough for a hike up to the top of the hill for a beautiful view of the Wairapa. The wood stove kept us warm, and the bath was a welcome end to each day. Looking forward to visiting again with family!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Pieta S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing Getaway

I definitely recommend this getaway! So cozy and amazing views!
Stayed 2 nights in May 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

kiaya B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Relaxing stay

Great place to relax. Thoroughly enjoyed our time here. Thanks
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Veronica S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Adventure house

We were craving some isolation, some lush family time, and this place was perfection. I only wish we'd stayed longer! My toddler loved sitting on the deck watching the bees in the rosemary and walking down to visit the dog.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Zane O.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Peaceful stay in the valley

We absolutely loved it here! It was just what we needed. Highlights: Hot wood burner Great big relaxing bath Sunny private deck No cell reception We highly recommend this place. We'll be back again. Ngā mihi
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A gentle getaway

Brilliant little cabin - hugely enjoyed the space and the area. Just a great relaxing time.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Malissa G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

True getaway from everything!

Fantastic romantic retreat in the middle of nature. Loved the extra large bath and outdoor shower, but the amount of stars to see at night is just beautiful! A true disconnect from everything to relax, read and take in the amazing scenery.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Penny T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely getaway

Wonderful!!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Daile L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Off grid escape

We loved breathing in the bush air from the porch or the outdoor shower, cosying up to the fire reading a book, having a romantic bath and getting away from the screens! A lovely relaxing stay and we will definitely be back.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ron W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location

A truely wonderful place to stay and get away from everything. Cosy and relaxing cottage to stay in.

Easy
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Daryl F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Nice soot

Great place, charlie is a great guide.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sabrina G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Birthday gift for our sister and brother-in-law

We stayed at the stone cottage before and loved it so much that we treated our sister and brother-in-law to a birthday weekend away. They did not want to leave. The cottage is perfect in any weather, sunny or not, rainy or not, stormy or not…highly recommended!!
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Paul J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Rustic Charm

We had a lovely relaxing 2 nights here. Enjoyed the local walks into the valley with the local dog Charlie. The quietness with the river in the background was perfect. Really enjoyed the outside shower even when it was drizzling. Lovely friendly hosts too. Perfect stay
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Rosemary H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Digital Detox Bliss

Get away from the rat race in this cosy cottage. Well appointed but NO internet or mobile phone or TV (YAY!!!). This is the ultimate "green prescription". Bush views, walks, exhilarating outdoor shower, log burner, comfy bed. But if you cannot go cold turkey, then civilisation is just a short 25 minute drive away. And if you are willing, then Charlie the cool laid-back dog will happily spend time with you too!
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Fran A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Excellent off grid hideaway.

Unique homegrown building with a homely decor. Sharing a bath with a wine, my soul mate and a book lends itself to à great start to a holiday! Thanks.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Beatriz S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Second time aroound

We’ll love this little cabin and the fireplace. Perfect for a relaxing getaway
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Paul M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderfully peaceful - thank you

Wonderfully peaceful - thank you
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sabrina G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Just magnificent !

We stayed for two nights on a wet and stormy winter’s weekend. We were greeted by the gorgeous pup Charlie and the owner Susie, who already put the fire on to welcome us in this treasure of a cottage, miles away from it all. The cottage has a lot of Charme upon arrival and gets even better once inside. We felt home instantly, and feel that it is not just perfect for a wet and windy weekend but also in any type of weather. Very private and memorable stay. Thank you for sharing your beautiful cottage with the world. We will be back.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2021

About the host

Hosted by kieran shaw

Host profile image
Kieran - CEO of a professional organisation and past senior manager of large international engineering projects. Long-time music composer and performer - well known sessions musician in seventies London.. Widely travelled and indulgent in cuisine and experiences.

Susie - Pilates teacher, writer, author of cooking/nutrition books, natural health advocate and creator of fine cuisine. Loves biking, hiking and travelling.

Why they chose this property

We came to this region from Queenstown and found it to be unspoilt with unique beauty.

What makes this property unique

There is no other property similar to the French Village Estate anywhere in NZ - maybe only to be found in South of France.

Languages:

English, German, Dutch

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests
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