River's Edge - Ruru Tent | Martinborough, Wellington-Wairarapa

River's Edge - Ruru Tent

Martinborough, Wellington-Wairarapa

River's Edge Retreat is unique accommodation set in the Ruakokoputuna Valley, just out of Wairarapa wine village, Martinborough and right in the centre of the Wairarapa's new Dark Sky Reserve.

River's Edge has two separate luxury tents on the property both positioned in different private spots on the edge of a quiet, tree-lined river that runs through the farm. This listing is for Ruru Tent, the original tent at River's Edge Retreat. The second tent on the property is known as Te Awa Tent.

The front of the tent has a large glass frontage, offering a beautiful riverside view.

With touches of recycled timber, luxurious textiles and an old chandelier, the tent interior has a rustic chic glamping vibe. A king-sized bed, deer hides, large vintage leather sofa and a wood burner stove come together to create a warm, comfortable, relaxing space in the cooler months.

The tent has an ensuite bathroom with piping hot water and flushing toilet. A second doorway leads to a small but functional kitchenette.

River's Edge is the best kind of luxury accommodation. It's the ideal place for those looking to enjoy a weekend escape, celebrate an anniversary, or relax with a post-wedding wind-down. Breathe the country air and immerse yourself in nature. Sink into the outdoor bath, surrounded by nature, for the ultimate unwind.

Enjoy the pleasure of a glass of good Martinborough Pinot while dining al fresco under the stars. Relax in your plush, comfortable king-size bed and let the sound of the river lull you to sleep...Bliss.

Last updated 10 Sept 2026

EATING AND DRINKING

River's Edge Ruru Tent is self-catering. Just bring your own food and drink, and cook meals using the BBQ and gas ring provided in your private camp kitchen. You'll find all the cutlery, crockery, pots and pans that you'll need.

There are plenty of great places to eat in and around Martinborough, a few of the host favourites are The Martinborough Hotel for a good steak and a relaxed pub-style meal and Karahui is a lovely option for dinner, with seasonal dishes and a great selection of local wines.

Tōhi Gin Room & Eatery serves Asian-inspired dishes alongside an impressive selection of New Zealand gins, as well as wine, beer, cocktails and non-alcoholic options.

Colombo Martinborough is a great option for takeaway pizza — pick one up and enjoy it back at River’s Edge.

The nearest store for stocking up on food and supplies is in Martinborough, a 10-minute drive away.

THINGS TO DO

Rest and rejuvenation are what a stay at River's Edge Ruru Tent is all about. Relax at your tent and watch the changing light on the river directly in front of your tent. Watch the mist lift from the valley in the morning. Take a long hot soak in the outdoor bath or lounge in a hammock with a good book. Connect over a board game or a game of cards, and when conditions permit cosy up and watch the night sky come alive in the heart of the Wairarapa Dark Sky Reserve.

If you want to get out and about, take a tour of the Martinborough vineyards. There is also Lake Ferry and Camp Palliser which make for an epic scenic drive. Stop on the way at The Land Girl cafe in Pirinoa for hot coffee and a bite to eat.

Visit Wairarapa's version of stonehenge near Martinborough, a NZ interpretation of the famous English landmark. Patuna Farm just up the road, has the amazing Patuna Chasm walk - a nature walk and limestone gorge.

YOUR HOSTS

Matt Thomas and Niki Harrison are the owners and hosts of Ruru Tent and started their glamping business "River's Edge Glamping" in 2015. It is located on Llandrindod Farm, a sheep and beef farm owned by Matt’s father Rex.

Matt grew up at Llandrindod while Niki grew up in Karaka, rural Auckland. After returning to NZ from their OE adventures, Matt brought Niki back to the Ruakokoputuna Valley where they have settled with their children. Many summers have been spent enjoying the river and natural beauty of the area.

Glamping was seen as the perfect and exciting opportunity to share the natural environment of the farm while providing a unique and luxurious style of accommodation. Having visitor accommodation close to home fits perfectly with the family’s busy lives, with Niki and the children often working together to prepare the tents for each guest. On top of keeping up with their children’s extra-curricular activities, Matt has his own farming operation and agricultural contracting business.

Both Niki and Matt think that Martinborough, especially Ruakokoputuna, is a pretty special place - and enjoy sharing it with guests.

TESTIMONIALS

“ We spent two nights at Rivers Edge to celebrate my birthday. It is such a great spot and a beautifully decorated "tent". So relaxing to be off grid and unplugged for two nights. A quick and easy trip into Martinborough. ”

Dani- 2026-02-24

13 / 13

“ We had an amazing time, surrounded by nature. A perfect way to unwind, disconnect from our busy lives and enjoy the simple things. Ruru Tent was just right for us. ”

Justina Toomata- 2026-08-10

1 / 13

“ We had a wonderful three night stay. Nice and cosy with the fire going and great to be off grid for a few days. ”

Christa Blanche- 2026-06-22

2 / 13

“ Perfect off grid stay and place to connect away from life’s busy times. ”

Melissa Congdon- 2026-06-20

3 / 13

“ Such a beautifully tranquil location for this superb tent. I had a wonderful time relaxing and exploring the local area. ”

Samuel Giacomelli- 2026-06-13

4 / 13

“ Enjoyed the location, quiet and great views. It had everything except phone coverage, however Martinborough was not far away with great cafes. We also went down to Lake Ferry. Didn't expect to have hot running water, but it was there too. The shower was great. ”

Adrienne Scott- 2026-06-08

5 / 13

“ The setting was beautiful, we loved the location beside the river. The accommodation was cosy with the fireplace and the bed was super comfy. We made the most of the outdoor bath which was so relaxing. A private space with no technology was just what we needed to unwind. ”

Phillipa Garratt- 2026-05-16

6 / 13

“ Absolute reset to the soul. We had such an incredible experience at Ruru. Nothing but positives to share. 20/10 would recommend to anyone wanting peaceful, romantic pure bliss in the middle of nature. Thank you so much for sharing your slice of paradise with us! ”

Lisa A CHALMERS- 2026-05-01

7 / 13

“ Off the grid, piece of paradise, ideal retreat to recharge and reset the batteries. ”

Linda C.- 2026-04-13

8 / 13

“ Hubby and I stayed for a much needed mini vacation. The Ruru glamp site was picturesque. The outside kitchen was fantastic for cooking and eating. Waking up to the gentle river was magic. We enjoyed star gazing from the tub in the bush. Overall a brilliant get away at a wonderful spot in nature. ”

Felicity Apperley- 2026-04-12

9 / 13

“ Such a wonderful spot, you can't do anything but relax here. ”

Gillian- 2026-03-22

10 / 13

“ My partner and I had the most relaxing and comfortable stay at River’s Edge. The idyllic location plus the gorgeous amenities meant we had everything we needed! Cant recommend this enough. ”

Laura- 2026-03-10

11 / 13

“ It was great to take time to actually stop with no distractions, no power, and no phone reception. Listening to the sound of the water, especially in the outdoor bath, was very relaxing. ”

Philippa Roil-Glendenning- 2026-03-06

12 / 13

Dani- 2026-02-24

13 / 13

“ We had an amazing time, surrounded by nature. A perfect way to unwind, disconnect from our busy lives and enjoy the simple things. Ruru Tent was just right for us. ”

Justina Toomata- 2026-08-10

1 / 13

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River's Edge - Ruru Tent

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