Tuhitarata seemed to claim us after we came to view the then somewhat run down estate out of curiosity and we found ourselves infatuated with the house, grounds and setting. We lived at Tuhitarata for eleven years, with our daughter, our zealously affectionate Labradors Polo and Toffee, and our small flock of friendly doves.
We have come to love this tranquil, beautiful property even more over time, as we have learnt about its fascinating early history and enjoyed the ongoing process of restoring and developing such a unique garden and grounds.
As we enjoyed visits from our family and friends, house and birthday parties, and two weddings on the estate, we began to think about sharing the experience of staying at the property. We knew we would enjoy sharing the beauty and history of Tuhitarata. We also knew we would both enjoy working together to make something beautiful and that we would get great satisfaction from providing a great experience for guests.
So in early 2012, we began the process of renovating the barn and stables into a wedding and events venue. Like all projects, the experience was both exciting and stressful, as we stretched ourselves to ensure the venue was perfect.
From the beginning we knew we wanted to keep the original rustic character of the barn. We also quickly realised the barn was going to be a truly stunning venue with its soaring sarked ceiling, wooden beams and its magnificent views.
So to emphasise the barn’s cathedral like proportions, the amazing views and the barn’s natural rustic elegance, we decided to remove the top floor; replace some of the back wall sarking with glass; and invest in some stunning chandeliers to ensure the ultimate perfect romantic venue for a bride and groom.
Having already renovated one cottage on the property, we turned our attention to another little cottage, possibly a cottage lived in by a teacher to the children of the estate in the 1800s. Given its private setting and the little romantic bridge that provides access to it, we decided this cottage was to be the Honeymoon Cottage.
We also decided that the gardens needed to be developed to their full potential to provide the ultimate wedding photo backdrops. We added a wildflower meadow and further developed the already extensive gardens.
A small dedicated team of people have helped make the project happen. We are particularly grateful to George Daines, who dedicated his wide range of skills, machinery and problem solving abilities to play a major part in the success of the project.