Somewhere in the middle of the south island there is this beautiful farm full of charm and character. Karen and Bruce are wonderful hosts. Bruce took us on an impressive tour all around the vast farmlands with amazing views, Karen introduced us to the animals near the farmhouse and is a great cook.
If you want to know what it is like to be on a farm, and to be surrounded by all kinds of animals (sheep in particular ;-)), Karetu Downs is probably as genuine as it gets.
But apart from being authentic, the B&B is hosted by a lovely couple that does tremendous hosting. We were placed in a complete and comfortable part of the house and had breakfast at Karen's dinner table each morning, which one lovely and allowed us to ask all kinds of questions about the farm.
Finally, it is clear that Karen and Bruce (the man running the farm) absolutely love the animals and love what they do. This gives the whole experience a little extra that is worth mentioning.
We stayed in the farm cottage which has been renovated and is bright,clean and well appointed and now has wifi. The views from the farm are beautiful as is the garden at the farmhouse. There is the option to go mountain biking or walking independently up into the hills on the farm or down to the river gorge. We walked down the river and swam in the (deep) swimming hole which was fantastic on a hot day. Karen was very welcoming and easy to communicate and arrange things with. The farm feels quiet and peaceful but is only 20 minutes or so from Waipara with wineries and restaurants.
Thank you so much for the review. It is great to now have wifi in the cottage so when guests stay they are still able to connect with family and friends and work if required.
Really pleased you enjoyed the river walk too on hot summer days the river is a fabulous place to cool off and is lovely and private as well.
Thank you
Karen and Bruce x
What an awesome NZ farm experience!! The accomodation was so comfortable and had everything a family could want. Stunning surroundings. The highlight was all the animals and the incredibly lovely Karen and Bruce. The kids loved feeding all the lambs, sheep, pigs, chickens and the all the dogs. The boys loved going for a bit of a tour of the property. Karen and Bruce were so patient and nothing was a problem. This stop was a definite highlight for us all. We hope to back again one day very soon! Thank you!!!!
Thanks Caroline,
We both loved meeting you guys and the kids were amazing. It's so nice to read this review and to read how the kids liked interacting with the farm animals. I think the lambs really missed the kids feeding them!
We would most definitely love to see you all again anytime. Best wishes Karen and Bruce xx
We had a 3 night stay here recently. It was pefect! The scenery that surrounds the farm is breathetaking... Karen and Bruce are very friendly and her breakfasts are beautiful, using their own produce. We will definitely return.
Thank you guys for making our stay perfect.
Thanks Jo and Mark for staying at Karetu. It was a pleasure to meet you and we are so pleased you both enjoyed your stay with us.
Best wishes Karen and Bruce x
