The Mai Mai

Washpen Falls - The Mai Mai

Windwhistle, Canterbury

The Mai Mai is set on the same high country property as the famous Washpen Falls Walk. 

It is a 50-minute drive from Christchurch Airport, one hour from Christchurch City and 20 minutes from the Mt Hutt access road. It's perfectly positioned geographically for a stopover to or from Queenstown, Tekapo, West Coast and beyond. 

The Mai Mai gazes over calm waters and gentle rolling farmland. Wander across the bridge leading to your cosy hut. Inside, a comfortable living and sleeping area is warmed by a Roaring Meg fire, while the luxe bathroom showcases a double black corten steel shower that blends rustic touches with modern comfort.

Dining choices include indoor and outdoor bar leaners, a wooden outdoor table, and a cosy dinner nook beside your covered entertainers open-air kitchen. Soak up the sunshine on the deck or hop into the rowboat out on the pond (or even go for a dip!) Further along the waterside, a private outdoor bath sits on the edge of the pond.

At the Mai Mai, nature is always on full display - calm, wild and everything in between. You’re well equipped to take shelter from the elements, which enhances its wild charm!

Here, the sunrises paint the sky in tender hues, and as evening settles, the night lights create truly wonderful moments you'll remember long after your stay.

FROM $395

  • Sleeps 2
address
 

590 Washpen Rd, Windwhistle 7572

directions
 

The Mai Mai is set on the same property as the famous Washpen Falls Walk.

It is a 50-minute drive from Christchurch Airport, one hour from Christchurch City and 20 minutes from the Mt Hutt access road. It is also perfectly positioned geographically for a stopover to or from Queenstown, Tekapo, West Coast and beyond. Follow the Google Maps directions to get the address. 

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

The Mai Mai

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 or WiFi?

What sort of heating is there?

Can I have an outdoor fire?

Can children stay at The Mai Mai?

Can I bring my dog?

How private and remote is The Mai Mai?

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

Will I come across creatures and critters during my stay?

What do i need to bring?

Are there any safety considerations?

Can I book for one night only?

Minimum stay periods

rates

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

    The Mai Mai is self-catering. Just bring your own food and drink, and cook meals using the double burner gas cooktop and Weber BBQ provided. You'll find all the cutlery, crockery, pots and pans that you'll need.

    It's a good idea to stock up on groceries before you leave home, although both Darfield and Methven (20 - 25 minutes away) do have small supermarkets. 

    If you want a break from cooking at any stage, you are spoilt for choice with a variety of dining options in Methven.

  • things to do

    Nestled at the base of the foothills, this is a place where you'll want to simply 'be.' Spend lazy afternoons playing cards, dominos, or petanque. From the outdoor bath, watch ducks glide across the pond and listen to the cows moo in the distance.

    The Washpen Falls Adventure Walk on the property is a fantastic 2-hour loop track offering majestic scenery. You’ll go through lush native bush to a volcanic canyon reserve, experience picturesque views across the Canterbury Plains and see sparkling spring-fed creeks and stunning waterfalls.

Testimonials

  • "

    Idyllic atmosphere set in beautiful surroundings. The Mai Mai offers a truly rustic feel combined with modern amenities. Great communication from the hosts made the stay easy and enjoyable. An energizing and refreshing break just an hour from the city.

    "

    Stephen Jarman - 15 May 2025

    1 / 5

  • "

    Loved it. Such a cosy and relaxing space.

    "

    Gemma - 24 Apr 2025

    2 / 5

  • "

    Loved our little break away, it was perfect!

    "

    Cindy Crampton - 17 Apr 2025

    3 / 5

  • "

    We were amazed by the creativity and atmosphere of the Mai Mai. It was so secluded and private I would recommend this beautiful place to anyone. Everything you needed was there! Thank you so much for this opportunity, we had the best weekend!

    "

    Kate Neilson - 07 Apr 2025

    4 / 5

  • "

    The Mai Mai was situated in the most amazing secluded spot and is the perfect place for a couple to stay. We stayed for two nights and loved every minute of our stay. It felt like the perfect spot, and my partner and I got engaged here. Thank you for providing such a wonderful place.

    "

    Daniel Blackham - 14 Mar 2025

    5 / 5

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