Testimonials

Our Canadian family has had the good fortune to have traveled extensively throughout the world and Hiwinui Country Estate is one of our favorite places to visit- a home away from home. We not only appreciate the beautiful landscape and well-appointed rooms but the Stewart family- Jan, Dave and Julia are exceptional hosts. We are grateful to have found this charming, idyllic boutique lodge and truly value all the attention to detail they provide for a special stay. A hidden gem that we look forward to visiting again and again!

George and Sally Hillis, Canada

Hiwinui Country Estate has managed to balance the feeling of being away from home on holiday whilst simultaneously feeling right at home. The rooms are spacious with generous bathrooms and gorgeous views overlooking the property. Julia and Jan are so welcoming and accommodating and their delicious breakfasts each morning make it hard to leave! We have loved getting to know the history of the property, going on a tour of the dairy farm with Dave, feeding the chickens and the ducks and meeting Dior, their gorgeous horse. We look forward to coming back again soon.

Sophie Kollmorgen, Sydney, Australia

We have stayed at Hiwinui several times over the last few years - we love it so much that we now always plan a couple of nights whenever we’re going past on the way to Wellington or South Island. Julia, Jan and Dave are so accommodating and make you feel like family while you’re there - they all have a genuine warmth and nothing is too much trouble - even Julia’s daughter, Charlotte brought her pony around to the room so my wife could pat it! The farm tour with Dave is a “must do” if you have time and the Stewart family history is fascinating - I wish our farm looked like theirs! Hiwinui is a fantastic place to stay - beautiful buildings, rooms and surrounding gardens and farmland - it’s like living in the middle of a huge park Stay, and you’ll keep coming back!! It couldn’t be better

Mike Henderson, Auckland

The most beautiful experience with lovely hosts. We enjoyed our stay at Hiwinui with a relaxing spa, an evening of wine with a delicious platter for two and a beautifully cooked breakfast. A much needed break away that left us feeling well-rested. There are so many thoughtful touchpoints to Hiwinui. The gold leaf cookie on arrival, luxurious linen on the bed, the perfectly timed treats awaiting us at the spa alongside a roaring fire and the underfloor heating in our spacious bathroom complete with spa bath. We enjoyed the entire experience.

Irene Sefesi

We had the pleasure of having our wedding at the lovely Hiwinui Estate. It is such an intimate and beautiful place to be! Big thank you to Julia and the Stewart family for planning our big day and making it the most stress-free experience. We will definitely consider staying again in the future and would highly recommend it!

Sophia and Kyle

Absolutely beautiful location with amazing hosts! Thank you so much for our wonderful time away. A truly hidden oasis!!

Joel & Laura, Auckland

Thanks for a fabulous stay. Great hospitality and the fire by the spa pool just topped it off beautifully!

Julia & Kelvin French, Hamilton

Thank you for your great hospitality. You have a beautiful place and everything was perfect.

Frank & Ria, Netherlands

Thank you so much for everything, it has been perfect. You are all so amazing and welcoming. We had the most amazing wedding day because of you!

Emma & Luke, Gold Coast, Australia

We had a lovely time at Hiwinui Country Estate. Jan, Dave and Julia were very welcoming. The accommodation is first class and some lovely conversations with the family. Great to have a tour of the farm and learn more about the Dairy farming and planting. The hot tub was wonderful after travels. Thank you so much, definitely recommend.

Ciaran & Nicola, Thames Dilton, UK

Thank you for our perfect wedding. Everything was beautiful and we couldn't have imagined anything more amazing x

Kim & Maggie

Thank you so much for the perfect stay. You've made the start of our honeymoon absolutely perfect!

Dylan & Julia, New Plymouth

Thank you for making our wedding day so incredibly special and amazing. BEST DAY EVER!!!

Dean & McKenzie White, Wellington

Thanks for such a lovely and relaxing place to stay. We loved your warm and welcoming hospitality!

R & M Hitch, California, USA

Thank you for a lovely weekend. It was just what we needed. Lovely service, food, everything was just wonderful!

Lizzie & Glen, Wellington

We had such a great time! The bridal and groom's party had a blast. Such a beautiful place.

Gina & Joel, Napier

We absolutely loved every minute of the couple's package. Julia, Jan and Dave have made our 9 year wedding anniversary one to remember.

Adam & Daphne, Kapiti