Foley Villa

Welcome to the Wairarapa

The Wairarapa is the rural province in which we are situated. It extends from the southern shores below Wharekauhau, North up the centre of the lower North Island, and spreads across to the Eastern coast of the North Island. It is very much a rural, rugged, a somewhat ‘un-explored’ province. The term ‘Wairarapa’ translates to ‘Glistening Waters’ – This is in reference to the shimmering lake surface that Lake Wairarapa can produce in the summer months. Some of the regional highlights of the Wairarapa include;

Lake Ferry

Lake Ferry is located less than one hour from Wharekauhau, on the shores of Lake Onoke and Palliser Bay. This popular spot is known for its superb fishing and surfing, its unique environmental assets and its fascinating history. European settlers brought sheep and cattle into the area in 1844, following the coastal route from Wellington to Lake Onoke. These runholders were the first to establish pastoral farming in New Zealand. Following a drowning in 1850, a ferry service across the lake was established. The ferryman needed accommodation and a supplement to his income so a liquor license was issued, and the Lake Ferry Hotel opened in 1851. Lake Ferry Hotel is home to great Whitebait Fritters, Fresh Flounder, and Paua. A lot of local history is depicted in the photographs hanging from the walls.

Ngawi & Cape Palliser

Ngawi and Cape Palliser are small settlements that embraces the rugged beauty of the coastline. Pronounced ‘Nar-wee’ is a small fishing / holiday town within five kilometres of Cape Palliser.  Ngawi has one claim to fame - more bulldozers per head of population than anywhere else. The bulldozers are used to haul the commercial fishing boats in and out of the water as there is no wharf or alternative access to the ocean other than the beach, which can be notoriously rough at times. Further South is the Cape Palliser peninsula. The Southern-most tip of the North Island. Home to the historical Cape Palliser lighthouse and the large population of brown fur-seals and sea lions.

Greytown

This shopping gem, just 45 minutes North of the lodge, has beautifully restored Victorian wooden buildings that house stylish and interesting specialty stores, artisan crafters, boutiques, cafes and restaurants. Greytown offers the antithesis of big box shopping or bland and samey malls you find in many large centres these days.