Kurow, Otago
Sparrowhawk is located 15 minutes from Kurow , 30 minutes from Omarama, and 1 hour from Oamaru in North Otago. The hut is accessed via a 10-minute 4WD journey across farmland. 4WD transfers in on the day of arrival, and out on the day of departure are included in the price.
The hut is set out the back of a high country sheep and beef farm, surrounded by beautiful untouched native high country plants, matagouri, coprosma, snow tussock - to name a few. It looks directly out towards the St Mary Mountain Range, with a pristine snow-fed stream running close by. A 2-minute walk will bring you to a beautiful swimming hole - the perfect place to cool off on a hot Otago summer's day.
The hut itself consists of two rooms, separated by a bathroom between them. One room contains a queen bed with luxurious linen. The other room is a combined kitchen and living area - with a wood burner for keeping cosy on cooler days.
The outdoor bath is in a prime position to enjoy views far and wide of the mountains and, if you're lucky, the Sparrowhawks soaring overhead. At night, you'll have a crystal clear view of the night sky and stars.
Sparrowhawk is a place to truly get off the grid. To escape the world and melt into a landscape that feels a million miles from anywhere... It's just you, the stream, the mountain view, and the ever-changing sky of the high country.
Sparrowhawk is self-catering. Just bring your own food, and cook meals using the BBQ and facilities provided in the hut kitchen. You'll find all the cutlery, crockery, pots and pans that you'll need.
If you need to shop for supplies on the way, there is a supermarket in Kurow (15 mins away). It's best to make sure you arrive with all the supplies you need. Once you've been transported into the hut, you'll be there until your hosts collect you on the day of departure.
With board games, books, and a luxurious hot tub provided - you'll find there is plenty to keep you entertained at the hut.
If you're keen to explore, you're welcome to walk around the farm, and along the newly created walking track which follows an old 1900s water race. Or check out the pristine, snow-fed stream nearby - and on a hot day enjoy a swim in the swimming hole, a 2-minute walk from the hut.
The Waitaki Valley is renowned for its beautiful wineries, shops, history - and most importantly the beautiful Waitaki River and Lakes. It's well worth taking the time either before or after your stay to look around.
Ben and Emma are your hosts at the Sparrowhawk. They farm on a sheep, cattle and deer farm where Ben grew up. They are now bringing up their three sons, Jack, Harry and Charlie on the same property.
They love living on the farm and have an amazing community in Kurow.
They all have a real passion for the outdoors so when they’re not on the farm, they are either hunting or adventuring in the Valley. During their outdoor pursuits, Ben and Emma loved all their experiences in backcountry huts and wanted to build something similar with a little added luxury. This led them to create 'Sparrowhawk' - a special place for people to come and experience the area.
The Sparrowhawk is named after its resident bird also known as the NZ falcon. If you are lucky you will get to see the bird flying fast above the hut.
They are very much looking forward to sharing their peace and quiet, as well as the untouched beauty of the high country, with you.
Relax. Unplug. Savour a unique holiday experience. A secret weekend escape.
A family holiday.
Whatever the reason, let nature back in – go glamping!
Find your escape