Parimanui Hut

Parimanui Hut

Timaru, Canterbury

Parimanui Hut is situated halfway between Christchurch and Dunedin. It is just 20 minutes from Timaru, 35 minutes from Fairlie, and one hour from Oamaru in the Canterbury region.

Set deep into the property, getting to the hut requires a 4WD transfer with your gear on the day of arrival and departure from your hosts. If you'd like to come and go from the property during your stay, you'll enjoy a scenic 30-minute walk to and from your car park at the stables on the property or you can book additional transfers. 

Embraced by awe-inspiring limestone cliffs and nestled within an ancient broadleaf native forest, Parimanui Hut is a sanctuary of simplicity and serenity.

The hut itself features a large expansive deck that invites you to soak in the breathtaking surroundings. Inside, the cosy interior includes a queen bed, a snug lounging corner, and an Oregan timber kitchen with a breakfast bar looking directly out to the views.

A true nature experience, you'll find all the bathroom facilities outside - immersed in the surroundings. Step to the left of the hut and ascend a few stairs to find a bioloo and a beautifully handcrafted barrel basin. To the other side of the hut is an outdoor shower with a view directly up towards the cliffs. An outdoor wood-fired hot tub is filled with water from a limestone spring. 

A special feature of the property, the limestone cliffs are geological wonders, laid down on the Zealandia continental shelf between 50 to 200 million years ago. The vistas on the farm are spectacular, with 360-degree views of the Southern Alps. You also have Mount Sefton to the west and the sparkling Pacific Ocean to the east. On a clear day, you can see down to the Kaikoura's, Port Hills and the Hunter Hills!

Parimanui Hut is a natural playground where you can bask in the peace, glowing sunsets, the stars and the birdlife. 

FROM $350

  • Sleeps 2
  • Horses welcome
ADDRESS
 

177 Pareora Gorge Road, Maungati 7972

LOCATION
 

Parimanui Hut is situated only 20 minutes from Timaru and one hour from Oamaru in the Canterbury region.

Follow the Google Maps directions to the address. Please note there is no phone reception in some areas on the way so it's a good idea to put the address into your GPS before departing.

Your host, Sara, provides transportation to and from the hut on the day of arrival and departure, so you'll need to bring everything you need for the duration of your stay. Alternatively, if the track is not wet, you have the option to follow your hosts up to the hut in your own 4WD vehicle. However, please note that you will need to have experience in driving on uphill farm tracks. You can also park your vehicle at the stables shed and enjoy a scenic half-hour walk to the hut (a good level of fitness is required).

You will receive a pre-arrival email with detailed arrival instructions and your host's details 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].

Parimanui Hut

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?

What is glamping like in winter?

Can children stay at Parimanui Hut?

Can I bring my dog or horse?

How private and remote is Parimanui Hut?

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

transfers

Catering

Activities

BRING YOUR HORSE

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

    Parimanui Hut offers catering services for breakfast, dinner, and dessert, which you can find out more under the 'Rates and Extras' button. If you have ordered Sara's food options; this will be ready and waiting for you in the hut on arrival, or precooked if you requested that option.

    If you choose self-catering, you will need to bring your own food and drink. You can cook meals using the wood-fired Baker's oven and large Weber BBQ provided at the hut. You'll find all the cutlery, crockery, pots and pans that you'll need.

    If you're keen to sample some local cuisine, take the 30-minute walk from the hut to your car and head to Timaru, only 20 minutes away. The Oxford is a chic restaurant/bar, Harlau House Cafe set in a relaxing country setting, Hector's Blacks is a unique and quirky bar, The Speight’s Ale House has delicious pub food, and Zest is known for its pizzas. 

    The nearest store for stocking up on food and supplies is in Timaru, 20 minutes away.

  • things to do

    Nestled in your own private nature oasis, this place offers plenty of ways to recharge. 

    Inside the hut, you'll find books, cards, a puzzle and a set of naughts and crosses. Feel free to try knitting with the Merino wool and instructions provided to make a premature baby singlet, which will be donated to Timaru Hospital when completed.

    Walk around 550ha of stunning farmland, through native bush, and around the rocky outcrops. Just remember to bring good walking shoes! Venture even further, and you'll find yourself at the Pareora River nestled in the gorge below. As you ascend the walkway leading to the Pareora Dam, you'll uncover a series of enchanting swimming holes along the river. Please note the walk back up to the hut is uphill.

    Alternatively, bike along the farm tracks, swim the Pareora River in the gorge below, or BYO horse and enjoy a ride around the paddocks.

  • Your hosts

    Your hosts at Parimanui Hut are Sara and Nick Rowley.

    Sara and Nick's narrative unfolds as a classic 'girl meets boy next door' tale, which has now blossomed into a beautiful family with three children: Hamish, Milly, and Ben. They live on Sara's family farm which has been farmed by her family since 1864 when her great-great-grandfather, Edward Elworthy, arrived from England to farm at Holme Station in Timaru. There are family history books in the hut if you'd like to know more!

    Hamish, Milly, and Ben (Sara and Nick's children) played a pivotal role in the creation of Parimanui Hut. After exploring the farm one day, they discovered a natural clearing, where they camped in swags alongside friends. It was within these shared moments that the concept of the hut took root and began to flourish. 

    The name "Parimanui" was inspired by the remarkable cliffs on Craigmore Hill. 'Parimanui' in Te Reo Māori translates to 'large white cliff or rock'.

Testimonials

  • "

    From the moment we booked until the moment we left the communication was great. We wanted a getaway filled with peace and quiet, great views, a cosy and comfy space and to make some memories. We got exactly that.

    "

    Dan Schwarz - 01 May 2025

    1 / 12

  • "

    Fabulous off grid stay in a lovely setting.

    "

    Cathy Forrest - 16 Apr 2025

    2 / 12

  • "

    We absolutely loved our stay at Parimanui Hut – the hut itself had everything we needed, and the location was very private with fabulous views. We enjoyed exploring the farm and getting up close to the limestone cliffs. Sara and Nick were very welcoming, and Sara filled us in on some of the local knowledge and where to explore. We would highly recommend a stay at Parimanui Hut.

    "

    A McKay - 17 Apr 2025

    3 / 12

  • "

    Thoroughly loved our stay. So peaceful and the views are wonderful. Enjoyed the hot tub, outdoor shower and hammock, as well as a walk around the farm.

    "

    Jennie & Grant - 28 Mar 2025

    4 / 12

  • "

    Super comfy cabin, Sarah has thought of everything. Awesome communication.

    "

    Nicki Hull - 22 Mar 2025

    5 / 12

  • "

    We had an amazing stay! The view was breathtaking, the bed was super comfortable, and the food was absolutely delicious. Loved relaxing in the hammock and spending time with the puzzles—such a great touch. Highly recommend!

    "

    Olena Lavrenchuk - 27 Feb 2025

    6 / 12

  • "

    Perfect in every way. The facilities are exceptional – stunning views, incredible peace, and it felt like being in another world. This cabin and its surroundings are clearly an absolute labour of love for Sara and Nick. Every detail has been thoughtfully considered, and the welcome book is filled with handwritten notes and photos to ensure clarity. We arrived to fresh milk, cream, chocolate, and the tastiest eggs I’ve ever had. Sara’s communication was fantastic, helpful, and incredibly kind. It really was the most wonderful and magical break away – I truly hope I get the opportunity to go back.

    "

    Michelle Kinilau - 18 Feb 2025

    7 / 12

  • "

    We loved Parimanui Hut. It’s set amidst beautiful bush with magnificent views. You have privacy and the feel of camping, but with many comforts and the experience of being spoilt by the wonderful hosts. Everything you could think of and more has been provided. The hut is superbly presented and appointed, and the attention to detail is impressive. And who doesn’t love soaking in a wood-fired hot tub after a day exploring the farm?

    "

    Matt and Ranui Calman - 19 Jan 2025

    8 / 12

  • "

    Parimanui Hut is 100% fabulous. One of the most beautiful, peaceful places I've ever been. Sara is an amazing host. We ate like kings (with the food she provided) and sat in the gorgeous hot tub under the stars. Incredible.

    "

    Ric Cantor - 13 Jan 2025

    9 / 12

  • "

    The location is breathtaking. The hospitality from genuine people made for a warm welcome. The produce from the farm to cook of evening was the best we’ve had. A truly memorable stay.

    "

    Kathryn Mcdermid - 17 Dec 2024

    10 / 12

  • "

    We booked two nights at Parimanui Hut for after our wedding and it was the best two days of rest, relaxation and peace! The cabin is built beautifully with so many nice little rustic touches, including fresh farm eggs, milk and cream, and even chocolate for a hot chocolate on top of the fire. The woodburning hot tub was so easy to keep warm and the views and seclusion were incredible. Sara, Nick and the family have created such a special spot and we love all the information about their family history. We are telling everyone we know about this place!

    "

    Ciara Horrell - 05 Dec 2024

    11 / 12

  • "

    Absolutely stunning location. Tucked away in the bush but also so open with epic views. Loved the remote but luxurious feel. What an absolute treat that Sara and her family have made this patch of paradise available for people to experience.

    "

    Monica Gallagher - 25 Nov 2024

    12 / 12

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