the rabbiter’s cottage
Nestled next to the historic Te Aratipi Homestead, The Rabbiter’s Cottage is a charming retreat on our century-old sheep and cattle farm. Originally built to house pest control workers (hence the name), this cottage was relocated in the late 1980s to accommodate visiting friends and family. Selby and Muff Palmer thoughtfully renovated it, adding elegant wainscoting and English wallpapers that evoke a sense of nostalgia. In 2017, Ed and Ro Palmer refreshed the space with new paint and furnishings, creating a cozy atmosphere that feels like stepping back in time.
The cottage features two inviting bedrooms that can comfortably sleep up to five guests—making it perfect for two couples or a family getaway. With one bathroom and a full kitchen, you’ll have everything you need for a relaxing stay. Enjoy your own private garden area, and take advantage of our expansive grounds, where you can play tennis or croquet during the summer months.
With its prime location near native bush walks, the breathtaking Waimarama Beach, stunning Maraetotara Falls, and the vibrant Havelock North village, The Rabbiter’s Cottage is the ideal base for exploring the sunny wine and cycling region without feeling like you are ‘in the sticks’.
We invite you to come experience the charm and beauty of The Rabbiter’s Cottage!
Details and Rates
Price: From $275 per night (incl gst).
The price includes:
Accommodation for up to 4 adults, or 5 guests including children.
Two-night minimum stay, Monday-Sunday.
Three nights minimum stay - school holidays & long weekends.
Check in from 3:00pm. Check out by 10:00am.
A complimentary welcome hamper featuring a bottle of local wine, along with seasonal extras such as home baking and fresh local coffee.
A native tree will be planted thanks to your stay!
See payment details + t’s and c’s here.
The space
The cottage is situated next door to our garage and homestead. You share the driveway with us but the cottage is very private. You have your own outdoor fire pit and seated area.
You are more than welcome to walk over the farm, around the large garden and play croquet, kubb or tennis during summer. The stunning and popular Waimarama beach is a 12 minute drive further down the road, Mohi Bush only 5 minutes away and the scenic Maraetotara Falls 20 minutes away. We have our own bushwalk across the road also for you to explore. You are welcome to feed the chickens and collect the eggs.
AMENITIES
2-bedroom, 1-bathroom charming cottage.
Master bedroom featuring a queen-sized bed. Second bedroom with double-sized bed and single day bed.
Bathroom includes basin, toilet, claw footed bathtub and shower.
Kitchen includes oven and hobs, small fridge, kettle, toaster, Nespresso coffee machine (and plunger). Please note, we have no microwave.
Mudroom, with washing machine, dryer, ironing board, iron, cleaning products.
Wood-burning fireplace. We supply wood and fire starters in the cooler months from April till October.
Gas BBQ on the deck, along with outdoor table and deck chairs.
Outdoor fire pit and private seated area.
UE Boom bluetooth speaker.
Books, magazines, boardgames.
Linen, bath towels, blankets.
Hand wash, shower gel, shampoo, conditioner.
Our pantry is stocked with olive oil, salt, pepper, local fresh ground coffee, a selection of teas, sugar, hot chocolate and marshmallows.
Access to homestead washing machine and clothesline.
Other things to note
Please note that this is a working farm, so you may hear sounds from can-am vehicles, motorbikes, tractors, and our friendly dogs. We also have a young family and enjoy hosting friends and family, creating a lively and social atmosphere.
We have a Vodafone booster for limited cell reception, but please note that our phone operates via landline through the internet. Wi-Fi is available in the cottage and is linked to our main house. This setup can be a dream for some but may not suit those who prefer to stay 120% connected! We recommend entering our address into your maps before you lose reception on your way to us.
We have young children (ages 5 and 7) and can provide everything you need for little ones, including a portacot, baby bath, high chair, and toys. Please let us know what you’d like us to set up for your arrival and stay!
We have a friendly horse named Aly down the road that you can visit, along with some chickens that you’re welcome to feed. You'll also meet our adorable, affectionate white Lab, Tag—he wouldn’t hurt a fly! Just a quick note: please don’t let him into the cottage.
A stay in the countryside offers the beauty of nature and a peaceful atmosphere, providing a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of town life.
Ask us about out hosted farm stays…
Experience the charm of life on one of Hawke's Bay's most iconic and picturesque sheep & cattle stations with an immersive, hosted stay.
$650 (incl gst) per night, per person.
Price includes:
Exclusive use of the The Rabbiter’s Cottage for the duration of your stay.
Activities available include farm walks, farm golf and farm tours. Farming also if you want to help out!
Afternoon tea & dinner on the first day. Breakfast provisions (for you to help yourself to), lunch and dinner on every full day of your stay. Breakfast provisions on your last day. Lunches will be either for you to help yourself to or on the farm with The Palmers. Dinners are with us in the Homestead (unless you really don’t want too!).
Complimentary wine and beer with meals. Non-alcoholic beverages are always available. Spirits available in the Homestead.
A native tree will be planted thanks to your booking.
A Te Aratipi cap for each visitor so you take a little bit of your stay away with you.
2-night minimum stay.
2 people minimum - 4 people maximum.
