Ararimu Downs

Ararimu Downs

Pukekawa, Waikato

Ararimu Downs is located in Pukekawa in the Waikato, just under 1 hour away from Auckland and Hamilton.

From its hilltop location, this idyllic retreat has sweeping views of native bush, gently rolling farmland and the stunning Waikato River. Whether you're enjoying your morning coffee or unwinding in the evening, the serene outlook from the cabin will leave you feeling completely at peace.

The cabin is simple and stylish. A comfortable bedroom contains a queen-sized bed and tranquil views of the river. There's a small kitchen and snug lounge area, and a separate bathroom.

Step out onto the deck and into the outdoors, where an exquisite wood-fired hot tub and brazier area await. Thoughtfully positioned to watch as the hues of dawn and dusk are mirrored on the water's surface.

Wander at your leisure through the farm and when it's a hot summer's day, head down to the river for a refreshing dip.

FROM $350

  • Sleeps 2
  • Dogs welcome
DIRECTIONS


Ararimu Downs is located in Pukekawa in the Waikato, just under 1 hour away from Auckland and Hamilton.

There is no physical address for the accommodation so you will need to follow the detailed arrival instructions (which include your host's contact details) in the pre-arrival email provided 5 days prior to your stay.

Note: If you have booked within 5 days and haven't received a pre-arrival email shortly after booking, please email us at [email protected].

Ararimu Downs

What are the bed and bedding arrangements?

What are the kitchen and cooking facilities?

What are the bathroom facilities?

Is there power?

Is there mobile phone reception?

What sort of heating is there?

Can I have an outdoor fire?

How does the hot tub work?

Can children stay at Ararimu Downs?

Can I bring my dog?

How private and remote is Ararimu Downs?

What is the access like and where do I park my car?

What do i need to bring?

Are there any safety considerations?

Can I book for one night only?

Minimum stay periods

rates

HOT TUB LIGHTING SERVICE

gift vouchers

1. Introduction

2. booking and payments

3. Guest cancellations and date changes

4. Host Cancellations

5. safety and hazards

6. pets

7. Activities

8. GST

9. conditions of occupancy and conduct

10. Complaints

11. Liability

12. Gift vouchers

13. Law

14. Changes to booking conditions

15. Authority to sign

  • eating and drinking

    Ararimu Downs is self-catering. Just bring your own food and drink, and cook meals using the two-burner gas hob for cooking and Weber BBQ provided. You'll find all the cutlery, crockery, pots and pans that you'll need.

    If you want a break from cooking at any stage, Pukekohe offers a variety of dining options for a night out. Franklin Bar and Eatery, Bazzas Steakhouse, The Good Home, and The Longkeeper are all just a 30-minute drive away. In Mercer, you can find Mercer Landing and Muddy Waters, an Irish pub, just 15 minutes away.

    The nearest store for stocking up on food and supplies is in Pokeno, 15 minutes away, or Pukekohe, 20 minutes away.

  • things to do

    Ararimu Downs is situated on a hill above the Waikato River, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding native bush, river and farmland. With such a stunning outlook, you'll never be bored with the view!

    Stretch your legs and enjoy a leisurely walk around the farm and bushland. Head down to the river for a dip (note the track is steep so good fitness is required). Afterwards, relax and indulge in a soothing hot tub soak or play a game of pentaque. Enjoy sitting around the campfire to toast marshmallows and stargaze.

    Nikau Caves is just 45 minutes away and offers a fascinating underground experience with stunning limestone formations and glowworm displays. Guided tours are also available.

    If you want to visit the coastal town of Port Waikato, it's a 30-minute drive away. The town offers black sand beaches and is a great spot for water sports and fishing.

    Hampton Downs Speedway hosts regular racing events with various vehicles, offering an adrenaline rush for motorsport enthusiasts. 

  • your hosts

    Your hosts at Ararimu Downs are Ben and Samara.

    Ben and Samara, along with their four children Jack, Tessa, Jed, and Tom, have owned the property since 2019. 

    The Cunninghams are farmers at heart, managing three farms across different locations. Samara takes care of their chicken farm in Pokeno, while Ben oversees the sheep, beef, and cropping farms. They also run a nationwide civil landscaping and erosion control business.

    After experiencing glamping themselves, they were inspired to share their Pukekawa Property with others. The property boasts immense natural beauty but they knew it was just missing a roof under which to live and fully enjoy it.

    The hosts warmly welcome you to enjoy this haven and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Testimonials

  • "

    Beautiful little cabin. Dog friendly, which is amazing, and fully fenced. Amazing views and super private. My partner, my pup and I loved staying here.

    "

    Mackenzie Greatorex - 21 May 2025

    1 / 12

  • "

    We absolutely loved our stay. Very cosy and comfy and great location!

    "

    Georgia Storey - 26 Apr 2025

    2 / 12

  • "

    It deluged with rain our entire stay, but a warm abode, a good book, and the sound of geese from the river below created a peaceful atmosphere.

    "

    Kerry Pascoe - 06 Apr 2025

    3 / 12

  • "

    We had so many highlights during our stay – being able to bring our dogs, enjoying the hot tub with that stunning view, relaxing by the outdoor fire, the thoughtful treats on arrival, and just the overall peacefulness of the place. Thank you!

    "

    Sarah Tolmay - 20 Feb 2025

    4 / 12

  • "

    A stunning setting, peaceful and serene – the layout of the house was excellent, the facilities were perfect – comfortable bed, hot tub, and kitchen. Easy to follow all instructions. A superb stay! Highly recommended.

    "

    Peter Miskimmin - 03 Feb 2025

    5 / 12

  • "

    Great little place. Perfect for relaxing in the countryside.

    "

    Brendan Clemens - 27 Jan 2025

    6 / 12

  • "

    We booked Ararimu Downs to celebrate our first wedding anniversary. It was absolutely perfect, magnificent, serene and very comfortable.

    "

    Emily Maurer - 13 Jan 2025

    7 / 12

  • "

    We absolutely loved our stay! It had everything we needed and felt so private—perfect for unwinding. We brought our dog, and he had the best time exploring and relaxing with us. The hosts were super helpful and made everything so easy. We’ll definitely be back—highly recommend!

    "

    Ashleigh Henry - 20 Jan 2025

    8 / 12

  • "

    A perfect spot to wind down for a couple of days. The bird song is spectacular, as is the honey! Thank you.

    "

    Sally Lewis - 15 Dec 2024

    9 / 12

  • "

    Such an epic stay! Loved every moment of it. We took our five-month-old child and dog, and everyone had an incredible time. The hot tub was so perfectly placed with an epic view and easy to control. The cleanliness was great, and the home was super cosy! Took the dog down for a swim in the river, and the cows on the farm were awesome to look at! Will be back 100%!

    "

    abbey powell - 10 Dec 2024

    10 / 12

  • "

    We absolutely loved our stay here and have recommended it to others. The location was beautiful, and it felt warm and homely. We cannot wait to come back for another stay.

    "

    Emily Churcher - 07 Dec 2024

    11 / 12

  • "

    Absolutely loved our stay at Ararimu Downs, the outdoor wood fired spa was 10/10!!

    "

    Alex Paton - 07 Nov 2024

    12 / 12

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