The Shieling

The Shieling

Wairarapa

The Shieling is an 8-minute drive from Carterton and Greytown in the Wairarapa and a 1-hour and 30-minute drive from Wellington.

The spacious and beautifully decorated tent for couples is situated in a newly established orchard surrounded by mature trees. From the large deck, unwind and soak in the views across paddocks to historic poplars.

Inside, you'll have all the amenities you need, including a comfortable king-size bed. A small lean-to kitchen is attached to the front of the tent, and the toilet and shower are down a path 20m behind the tent. A magical wood-fired hot tub also awaits, offering a warm and soothing escape nestled within nature.

This 5-hectare sanctuary is adorned with mature trees and native plantings, creating a haven for New Zealand's birdlife. Tūī, bellbirds, blackbirds, rosellas, fantails, and silver eyes flit through the foliage, with the occasional kārearea (NZ falcon) soaring above. In summer, relax under the shade of the trees as the dragonflies and Red Admiral butterflies flitter by and cicadas sing. As day turns to night, soak up those dark star-studded Wairarapa skies. 

FROM $280 p/n

  • Sleeps 2

Directions

The Shieling

What time is check-in and check-out?

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?

Is there heating?

Can I have an outdoor fire?

How does the hot tub work?

Can children stay at The Shieling?

Can I bring my dog?

How private and remote is The Shieling?

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

Will I come across creatures and critters during my stay?

Are there any safety considerations?

Can I stay 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. GST

8. conditions of occupancy and conduct

9. Complaints

10. Liability

11. Gift vouchers

12. Law

13. Changes to booking conditions

14. Authority to sign

  • Eating and Drinking

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

    If you fancy a meal out, there are plenty of choices to pick from in the Wairarapa. In Carterton, you have Balter Bar & Restaurant, Aunt Ginger's Kitchen, Almo Books & Cafe. There is also Clareville Bakery, open everyday aside from Sunday. Urlar Vineyard in Gladstone, 10 minutes away, offers wine tastings and a carefully curated menu in a beautiful setting.

    For those seeking boutique cafes and finer dining establishments, Greytown is the place to be. Or try the host's local wine and distillery favourites, such as Carterton Hop & Vine or Greytown Distilling Company.

    The nearest store for stocking up on food and supplies is New World in Carterton or Fresh Choice in Greytown, both an 8-minute drive away.

  • Things to do

    Days are spent relaxing here – reading, unwinding, or enjoying a game from our selection of board games, while nights unveil nature's greatest spectacle as the Wairarapa Dark Sky Reserve stretches endlessly above.

    For those who want to get out and about, the Wairarapa has so much to offer.

    Shoppers will love Greytown Mainstreet, which has boutique clothing stores, antiques, and gift shops.

    Why not try Juno Olives' Grove to Table Tour? Stroll through the flowering or fruit-laden olive groves (depending on the season), explore the harvest equipment, visit the production facility with its tank and bottling rooms, and finish with a tasting of their delicious oils.

    We recommend Tararua National Park and Pukaha Mount Bruce hiking trails for a breath of fresh air in nature. There is also great cycling in the area, with the Remutaka Rail Trail and several mountain bike parks. 

  • Your hosts

    Your hosts at The Shieling are James and Tracey, along with their dog Louis Mac.

    Having relocated from Wellington in June 2024, they discovered this property by chance while browsing online. What began as a casual day trip to an open home in the Wairarapa turned into an irresistible calling, leading them to make this special place their home.

    They've fallen in love with their new rural lifestyle – from the abundant birdlife and expansive skies to the tranquil evenings and star-filled nights. The area's boutique villages, quirky charm, and vibrant community events add to the appeal of country living. James brings his expertise in recruitment while Tracey continues her work as a primary school teacher.

    Having lived in Scotland for many years, both Tracey and James share a deep connection to the country. As a tribute to their Scottish experiences and heritage, they named their escape 'The Shieling,' after the historic, rustic Highland shelters that were used as summer huts and grazing lands in the subsistence farming model of the time.

Browse the Collection

Beautiful tents surrounded by nature, quirky cabins with packets of personality and secret hideaways that offer something completely unique... Explore the other places in our collection.

Find your escape