Staying at Takapoto opens the estate to you. Space to relax, bush walks, estate produce, wine, birds, a private boat ramp to Lake Karapiro — and a canyon full of stars after dark.
Experiences are part of staying at Takapoto — arranged when you book the Lakehouse, the Gatehouse or the Farmhouse.
Set off across the estate, on foot or by bike — along the inner pathways and roads that thread the bush blocks, discovering waterfalls as you go, with views right across Lake Karāpiro.
Prefer a guide? Takapoto ToursThe estate sits on the corridor from predator-free Maungatautari, and the birds spilling over the fence have made a home here. Tūī almost always; kererū, fantail, kingfisher and silvereye most days; kākā, constantly — with bellbird, grey warbler and shining cuckoo among the regulars.
About the Eco SanctuarySettle in beside the fire in winter, out in the sun come summer. Three flights — Classic, Premium and Ultimate, $20 to $35 — every tasting redeemable with a three-bottle purchase. The kitchen runs sourdough pizzas, small plates and platters. For private tastings on any other day, a call ahead is all it takes.
Wine Tastings at The CabanaPaddle the southern edge of Lake Karāpiro — over the submerged Horahora Dam that once powered the Waihi goldfields — and up into the Pokaiwhenua Canyon, narrow, moss-covered and hung with tree ferns. When darkness falls, float silently back downstream beneath a constellation of titiwai, the glow worms holding both walls of the canyon. Organised through Boatshed Tours (located just up the road).
Arrange a paddleWe'll help you arrange a relaxing itinerary — with advice on other local adventures for your staycation.
Takapoto sits in the heart of the Waikato — some of New Zealand's best-known attractions are an easy drive away.
The Shire as it appeared on film — guided tours through the movie set, 40 minutes away at Matamata.
hobbitontours.comMaungatautari — the predator-fenced mountain sanctuary whose birdlife spills into the estate, just up the road.
sanctuarymountain.co.nzLocal growers and makers every Saturday morning in the village of trees and champions.
cambridgefarmersmarket.co.nzBoat through the famous grotto beneath a ceiling of living light — about an hour's drive.
waitomo.comThe themed garden collections on the Waikato River — one of the region's most visited places.
hamiltongardens.co.nzLocal practitioners will come out to the estate for a session during your stay — we're happy to put you in touch.
The Lakehouse, The Gatehouse and The Farmhouse — and our guidance on the experiences to fold in, when you book.
