DISCONNECT TO RECONNECT
Experience complete immersion in nature and the luxury of total solitude – there are no roads, no people, no cell coverage, no stress. Just wild perfection.
Choose to relax on the extensive decks, soak in the outdoor bath, stargaze from bed, or explore the surrounding native landscape with sparking rivers, cool forests, swaying valleys of tussock and soaring mountaintops.
The DIY Package is perfect for New Zealand residents who just want to get away from it all and still have the comforts of home.
THE PERFECT ESCAPE
For wilderness explorers who want comfort when they return from their expeditions, this package includes a self-catered exclusive stay at Te Whare Ruruhau, with gorgeous bedding, a glass surround bedroom, outdoor bath for two, extensive decking, wood burner, full kitchen and toilet facilities set in 4,000 acres all to yourself.
Te Whare Ruruhau sits between the Kaimanawa & Kaweka forest parks and it is only accessible by helicopter. Enjoy an awe inspiring flight to get to your destination, all inclusive of our package price.
Self-Catered Delights
Bring out all your favourite food and drink, and prepare them in the comfort and privacy of Te Whare Ruruhau.
The fully gas-powered kitchen includes oven and range top, refrigerator and freezer, hot and cold running water as well as a full set of kitchen ware and tableware. On the deck, guests can make the most of the view with a barbecue.
THE LAND
Owhaoko ancestral land is over 16,000 private acres of pristine native bush accessible only by helicopter.
The Owhaoko Trust works in partnership with ecological experts to ensure the future of the endangered plant and animal species unique to our land have increased chance of success through invasive weed control and predator management. We encourage guests at Te Whare Ruruhau to get involved in helping our endangered species by contributing to the tracking and identification of species found during your stay.
Below is a link to a range of walking trails that we manage around the land, we encourage all guests to explore the beauty of the surrounding areas.
TAKE A LOOK INSIDE
Te Whare Ruruhau starts with an open-plan central living space with kitchen, dining and lounge areas opening onto the covered porch and spacious decks. On either side of the living space are the two double bedrooms, with every room positioned to take advantage of the amazing views and vistas.
Nga Whetu Piata (The shining star) room: Surrounded by glass walls and ceiling, perfect for watching the stars and the sunrise over the native bush.
Ahuru (warm) room: Cosy double bedroom with private deck to watch the sunset.
The full bathroom features continuous hot water, flush toilet, vanity, shower and luxurious towels, then take a short stroll along the decking to bathe surrounded by the native bush and enjoy the view and exquisite privacy from the extra large bathtub.
Below is a list of what is provided at Te Whare Ruruhau:
- All bedding including linen
- Towels, handtowels bathmats & face cloths
- A small selection of guest amenities, soaps etc
- A selection of tea, coffee & herbal teas
- Olive oil salt & pepper
- Plenty of firewood to keep you warm
PACKAGE PRICING
2-night minimum stay. Minimum 3-night stay for all public holiday weekends.
All rates are inclusive of gst. Our self catered stay does not include a host or any food & beverages. The standard package prices includes return transportation from the Helisika base located at Taharua Road, in either a Hughes 500 helicopter or AS350 (Squirrel).
- Our Hughes 500 can take a maximum of 3 people, with a max combined weight of passenger and luggage of 400kg
- Our AS350 (Squirrel) can take a maximum of 5 people, with a combined weight of passengers and luggage of 580kgs.
Please note the below AS350 price is for up to 4 passengers only, as this is the maximum number of guest who can stay in the cabin.
If you wish to take in more than 4 people there is a guides quarters onsite which can sleep a further 4 people. If you have between 5-8 passengers please contact us directly to discuss pricing.
(Prices valid until 30th June 2025)
| From Poronui Station (Helisika Base): | 2 Nights | 3 Nights | Per extra night |
| Hughes 500, 2 -3 people (max 400kgs) | $3200 | $3800 | $450 |
| AS350 Squirrel, 4 people (max 580kgs) | $3890 | $4490 | $450 |
| From Taupo Airport: | |||
| Hughes 500, 2 -3 people (max 400kgs) | $5360 | $5960 | $450 |
| AS350 Squirrel, 4 people (max 580kgs) | $6800 | $7400 | $450 |