Parimanui Hut

Parimanui Hut

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 p/n

  • Sleeps 2
  • 
            Horses welcome
      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

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Minimum stay periods

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Catering

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BRING YOUR HORSE

Gift Vouchers

3. Guest cancellations and date changes

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  • 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

  • "

    Parimanui Hut is a truly unique spot. Beautiful views of the mountains across the valley below, limestone cliffs above, and native bush surrounding the hut. Our hosts also thought of lots of little extras that made the stay special too.

    "

    Richard Mitchell - 30 Sep 2024

    1 / 12

  • "

    We loved our stay at Parimanui Hut. It’s comfortable, private, and has everything you need. We also enjoyed exploring the farm and surrounding bush. It was great to discover somewhere new and close to Christchurch.

    "

    Lisa Manson - 16 Sep 2024

    2 / 12

  • "

    The most beautiful setting and a perfect balance of comfort and rusticity. Very private, with lots to explore. One of the best, if not the best, Canopy Camping experiences to date. We're definitely going back!

    "

    Richard & Tracey Cranston - 16 Sep 2024

    3 / 12

  • "

    Absolutely amazing experience, we loved it. Even though it was raining, we had the best time. Huge thanks to Sara and her family for hosting us. We will definitely visit again.

    "

    Shivam Kumbharana - 15 Sep 2024

    4 / 12

  • "

    Sara was amazing to deal with! The whole stay, from arrival to departure, was just flawless. The scenery and quiet you experience out there are just breathtaking. The walks around the property are just amazing. By far the best stay my partner and I have ever had!

    "

    Isaac Watts - 21 Aug 2024

    5 / 12

  • "

    We both had a fantastic time. Sara was a wonderful host, and all the little touches at the hut ensured a relaxing, interesting, and comfortable stay. Loved reading the history of the family and area, the fire, hot tub, natural furnishings, and incredible views! The walk on the farm and the views were stunning. We will be back and will certainly tell friends and family. Best of luck with the future plans you have; I am sure they will be a success!

    "

    Rachel Bartrum - 31 Jul 2024

    6 / 12

  • "

    We loved our stay at Parimanui Hut. Sara was so kind and the best host. We had such a relaxing and chilled weekend in a gorgeous setting. Thank you to Sara and the Rowley family for a delightful getaway! We will be back.

    "

    Lauren Archer - 25 Jun 2024

    7 / 12

  • "

    Fantastic stay in a great location. Sara was a great host and a very nice lady!

    "

    Mitchell Stuart - 10 Jun 2024

    8 / 12

  • "

    We loved the birdlife and native surroundings. Being greeted at the gate by all the farm dogs was a real bonus. The most comfortable bed we've ever had.

    "

    Zayne and Ceire Rose - 20 May 2024

    9 / 12

  • "

    We absolutely loved the seclusion and privacy of Parimanui Hut. Sara was a thoughtful host who left lots of delicious treats like fresh milk, cream and veggies from her garden.

    "

    Cat Pattison - 20 May 2024

    10 / 12

  • "

    Sara was a warm and welcoming host and has set up the hut beautifully. The environment is incredible, and the hut just as incredible. My partner and I had the trip of a lifetime.

    "

    - 29 Apr 2024

    11 / 12

  • "

    The location is like something out of a movie, just stunning and such a sense of peace! The hut itself is so well-appointed; the bed is the comfiest I’ve slept on, all the linens are divine, and everything you could need has been thought of. We loved it and will be back.

    "

    - 18 Mar 2024

    12 / 12

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