Raewyn and Rod are the custodians of the house built by the Hunter Family.
George Hunter, his wife Helen and family of 10, plus a cow, came to New Zealand aboard the ship “Duke of Roxburgh” from Portsmouth. Their journey took 128 days and the family arrived on the 8th of February 1840, two days after the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi.
The cow had died but the piano forte, plough share and other goods arrived safely. Sir George was a respected public figure and Parliamentarian.
The Hunter Family built the church on the property in the 1870s, importing stained glass windows that date from the 18th century.
The Porangahau Station Homestead was destroyed by fire in 1920. It was rebuilt in the Arts and Crafts Architectural style of the times. The house is informal and unpretentious, but sophisticated in a subtle way. The design suggests handcraftsmanship and sits in harmony with the grounds, swimming pool and tennis court.
Material referenced from “Hunter, a history of an early New Zealand Family” compiled by William Gruar and “New Zealand Houses – The Arts and Crafts” weblog by Deon Swiggs
Andre is a South African with a passion for New Zealand. He regularly volunteers for DoC.
Andre is an outdoorsy sort of bloke, he has guided throughout the South Island for 27 years and climbed Mt Cook.
Andre married his Scottish maiden in an Edinburgh Castle 8 years ago and brought her home to New Zealand. Alison brought her Aga… Her passion for cooking has extended to a vast vegetable garden. Almost all the vegetables she cooks with have come from her own tunnel houses.
They both love that they share their home with native birds. Weka, Owls, Tui and Bellbirds are regular guests. Kiwi are sometimes heard.
Alison and Andre are mindful of their impact on the environment. They have a plan to manage their consumption. They have thought it through and put it into action. They collect rain water and are installing solar water heating.
Alison and Andre have green thumbs. They have made the most of the temperate climate and ample rainfall to foster an extensive fruit and vegetable garden. They use coffee grounds, high in nitrogen, from a local café to mulch their gardens.
Andre and Alison provide luxury accommodation in a unique, remote and beautiful location. Unwind in the outdoor bath while the sun sets and enjoy sumptuous food and engaging hospitality.
