The original "old brick" area of our Homestead was built in the 1860's from clay excavated from an area below the waterfall and adjacent to your cottage. The bricks were fired on the property, are truly stunning and an accolade to the skills of the early settlers to NZ. The house is one of the oldest in the area The ongoing improvements to the home are largely in keeping with the original flavor, boasting 3 meter high ceilings, colonial doors and windows, ship-lap weatherboards and old bricks. There is still much to do , particularly on the interior.
Many of the old trees that separate the cottage and the homestead, would have been planted at a similar time to the building of the house.
They now provide, not only a majestic presence to be admired, but also a home and playground for the many species of birds, natives such as the tui, morepork, wood pigeon as well as introduced species, such as the, rare to NZ, Australian cookabaraa. Our "home grown" white fantail doves frequent these trees when not roosting on our dovecots.
The farm itself is mostly gentle slopes around both dwellings, beyond this the country becomes quite steep and wild offering a variety of terrain and some wonderful views for those keen to explore.
It is in the higher parts that if you feel inclined to step out of your country cottage , you will find some wonderful regenerating native bush mixed with some very old natives, such as puriri, karaka and totara.
The night sky, just a 30 minute drive from the city, is incredibly spectacular offering on clear nights and at certain times, unbelievable views of the stars and moon.
Dusk and dawn, particularly during the winter, present stunning photo opportunities and should inspire any one who loves what nature has to offer.
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