River's Edge Retreat is unique accommodation set in the Ruakokoputuna Valley, just out of Wairarapa wine village, Martinborough and right in the centre of the Wairarapa's new Dark Sky Reserve.
River's Edge has two separate luxury tents on the property both positioned in different private spots on the edge of a quiet, tree-lined river that runs through the farm. This listing is for Ruru Tent, the original tent at River's Edge Retreat. The second tent on the property is known as Te Awa Tent.
The front of the tent has a large glass frontage, offering a beautiful riverside view.
With touches of recycled timber, luxurious textiles and an old chandelier, the tent interior has a rustic chic glamping vibe. A king-sized bed, deer hides, large vintage leather sofa and a wood-burning stove come together to create a warm, comfortable, relaxing space - summer or winter.
The tent has an ensuite bathroom with piping hot water and flushing toilet. A second doorway leads to a small but functional kitchenette.
River's Edge is the best kind of luxury accommodation. It's the ideal place for those looking to enjoy a weekend escape, celebrate an anniversary, or relax with a post-wedding wind-down. Breathe the country air and immerse yourself in nature. Soak in the outdoor bath overlooking the river and countryside. Enjoy the pleasure of a glass of good Martinborough Pinot while dining al fresco under the stars. Relax in your plush, comfortable king-size bed and let the sound of the river lull you to sleep...Bliss.
FROM
$295
p/n
Sleeps
2
Getting There
FAQS
Rates and Extras
Booking Terms
Make sure you download or print this handy info sheet with directions and host contact details prior to your journey. You may not have mobile reception at all times.
address
239 Ruakokopatuna Road, Martinborough 5781 (Note this address is the entrance to the glamping accommodation. River's Edge Retreat has a self-check-in procedure so you'll need to follow the directions below to get to this address and find Ruru Tent on the property)
River's Edge is a 1 1/2 hour drive from Wellington and 45 minutes from Masterton.
Head into the Martinborough town centre.
Take the Jellico Street exit from the Martinborough Square. Head out of town and turn left at White Rock Road (approximately 2 minutes from Martinborough Square).
Drive approximately 8km down White Rock Road, turn right on to Ruakokopatuna Road.
Drive approximately 2.3 km down Ruakokopatuna Road (a gravel road).
Turn left at 239 Ruakokopatuna Road and drive down to and across the bridge. Please note that there will be other vehicles including farm machinery and stock using the track to the tents so please drive slowly and cautiously. Stay on the gravel tracks at all times and follow the Canopy Camping signs. If you find any gates closed, please close again behind you. Ensure you move any larger rocks that have rolled onto the track, rather than driving over them, to avoid car damage!
After the bridge, the track forks, take the track to the right and drive up the hill to the gate by the small green water tank. Go through this gate.
Take the track to the right which goes down the hill (do not take the track to the left which is dangerous).
Drive to the bottom of the hill to the old hay shed and follow the track to the right (do not turn left at the quarry as this takes you to Te Awa Tent). The track will take you to a gate with the sign Ruru Tent. You've arrived!
River's Edge has one large wooden, framed luxury tent, sleeping two people in a king-sized bed. Everything you need for a comfortable nights sleep is provided -100% Egyptian cotton, top quality sheets, wool duvet, extra blankets. Beds will be made up prior to your arrival. Towels are also provided.
The camp kitchen has a gas ring for cooking, bench space and hot water for dishes. A weber BBQ is also provided. All the pots, cutlery and utensils you'll need to cooking and eating are provided. A chilly-bin and ice-packs are provided for cool food storage.
Some pantry basics are provided - tea, coffee, salt, pepper and cooking oil.
The tent has an ensuite bathroom accessible from inside the tent, with a flushing toilet, sink, shower and hot water. There is an outdoor bath down at the river's edge.
Mobile phone reception is available on the property (up the hill from the campsite). Guests are welcome to charge phones or devices at the house. Please contact your hosts prior to arrival to arrange this (their details will be provided to you 5 days prior to your arrival in a pre-arrival email).
River's Edge Retreat is open for winter stays, but bear in mind that you're booking an off-grid escape - without the usual luxuries of a fully powered home. Glamping is still a form of camping!
River's Edge Retreat has lots of warm bedding, a wood-burner in the tent, and lots of other elements to make your stay cosy and atmospheric. If you book a stay in winter, bring your sense of adventure, brush up on your fire-lighting skills, and be prepared for the elements!
River's Edge is a strictly adults only campsite (no exceptions). If you're looking for a safe and family friendly glamping site, check out some of our other Canopy Camping Escapes campsites that are super-safe and fun for kids. You can select 'child-friendly' in the search bar to find these sites easily.
River's Edge is very private. Tucked well into the property, you'll feel like you're a million miles from anywhere with just the sound of the river, the birds and the odd farm animal.
River's Edge is a working sheep and beef farm, with hazards both farm-related (ie. machinery and animals) and natural (ie. Ongaonga/stinging nettle). You'll need to exercise caution, as there are specific water hazards, such as troughs and the river in front of the campsite. For your own safety please do not touch any farm machinery, and do not enter the woolshed or other buildings on the property.
Sorry! River's Edge Retreat has a standard minimum stay period of two nights, with no exceptions.
The minimum booking period for long weekends such as Labour Weekend, Anniversary Weekend, etc is 3 nights. The minimum booking period for Easter is 4 nights. There are sometimes longer minimum stay periods across Christmas and New Year and these will be specified in the online availability calendar.
Our minimum night policies are strictly adhered to. Please note that there are no exceptions to the policies outlined below for Rivers Edge - Ruru Tent.
All Year Round:
River's Edge Ruru - has a standard minimum stay period of 2 nights with no exceptions.
Public Holiday Weekends:
The minimum booking period for long weekends such as Labour Weekend, Anniversary Weekend, etc is 3 nights. The minimum booking period for Easter is 4 nights. There are sometimes longer minimum stay periods across Christmas and New Year and these will be specified in the online availability calendar.
If you like the idea of an easy 'eat-in' catering solution, Good Times in Martinborough does 'Glamper Hampers' to collect on your way. Check out their menu and order here (or phone +64 223976441).
Give the gift of glamping! Gift Vouchers are available for use at any of our Canopy Camping Escapes glamping sites. These are provided in electronic format, for you to print out and pop in a greeting card for the lucky recipient. Read more about our gift vouchers, including how to purchase one, here.
1.1 If you book within 28 days of your stay, full payment via credit or debit card (VISA/Mastercard) is required at the time of booking. If you book more than 28 days prior to your stay a deposit of 10% is required to confirm your booking and secure the property. This will be charged to your credit or debit card (VISA/Mastercard) at the time of booking. A 2.5% credit or debit card (VISA/Mastercard) payment surcharge will be applied to all credit or debit card (VISA/Mastercard) payments.
1.2 Once you have made the online booking and payment, you will receive an email confirming both the payment and your booking details.
1.3 If you book more than 28 days prior to your stay, the remaining balance of your stay will be due 28 days prior to your arrival date. An email reminder will be sent to you at this time requesting payment for the outstanding balance. The reminder email gives you the option to pay the remaining balance by A2A (Internet Banking) or credit or debit card (VISA/Mastercard). If your internet banking payment has not been received within 24 - 48 hours, the remaining balance will automatically be charged to the credit or debit card (VISA/Mastercard) used at the time of booking. Please note: a 2.5% credit or debit card (VISA/Mastercard) payment surcharge is applied to all payments made by credit or debit card (VISA/Mastercard). Credit/Debit Card data is held in a secure and encrypted environment.
1.4 If you are unable to pay the balance before the stated due date, you will forfeit your deposit and your booking will be cancelled.
1.5 Bookings made online within 48 hours of arrival will not be confirmed immediately. Once the campsite has agreed that the booking can be honoured, the guest will be informed by Canopy Camping Escapes and the credit card used for the online booking will be charged the full balance of the stay. Note that there is a 2.5% credit or debit card (VISA/Mastercard) fee.
2.1Canopy Camping reserves the right to cancel the booking in the event of exceptional or unforeseen circumstances. This right will only be exercised in good faith and in exceptional circumstances such as:
(a) Extreme weather conditions that mean accessing or staying may pose a safety risk for the guest;
(b) Any alteration to the host property which may pose a safety risk for the guest;
(c) Unexpected damage or destruction of the site;
(d) A death in the host families.
Canopy Camping’s liability will be limited to refund of booking cost and under no circumstances shall extend to any other incidental or other costs incurred by the client. In the unlikely event that Canopy Camping must exercise this option it will use its best endeavours to offer either a full refund, or to alter the booking to another date, or site at no additional cost or penalty.
2.2 Your 10% deposit (or 10% of the value of your stay) is non-refundable, however it can be transferred to another booking made within a 12 month period, if your stay is cancelled more than 21 days prior to your arrival.
2.3 Cancellation or date changes by you within 4-21 days of your arrival date will result in 50% of the total cost of your stay being charged. Cancellation or date changes within 3 days of your arrival date will result in 100% of the total cost of your stay being charged.
2.4 Date changes made more than 21 days prior to your original arrival date are allowed without penalty.
3.1 Accommodation is often situated on working farms and there are hazards both natural and man-made. You accept that you enter the property at your own risk to participate in a glamping holiday.
3.2 Participation in activities such as, outdoor baths, climbing trees, walking on the property and any other activity on the property is the responsibility of the Guest and is done so at their own risk.
3.3 Canopy Camping Escapes accept no liability for accident, loss of property or personal injury whilst on your stay.
No pets are allowed unless otherwise specified on the website listing. Most accommodation is situated on working farms and therefore are not suitable for visiting pets.
GST of 15% (where the accommodation is GST-registered) is included in the daily per night cost. A tax receipt will be supplied by Canopy Camping Escapes if requested.
6.1 Guests have the right to occupy the Property for the paid holiday period only.
6.2 Guests are required to observe the rules and familiarise themselves with the procedures contained in the information folder provided in the accommodation.
6.3 Guests shall take all reasonable and proper care of the property and its furniture, fittings and effects in or on the property and leave them in the same state of repair, condition, cleanliness and tidiness as at the commencement of the rental period.
6.4 Guests are required to inform the owner of any damage or breakage in or around the property promptly so that it can be repaired and replaced for the next guests. Guests are bound to reimburse the owners for replacement or repair.
6.5 Where the property has not been left in the same state of condition, cleanliness and tidiness as at the commencement of the rental period, the guest will be required to pay an additional cleaning cost of $100.
6.6 Smoking is not permitted anywhere on the property.
6.7 Guests undertake to behave in a proper, appropriate and legal manner with due respect to the Owner, the Property and other guests and their property. If any guest behaves inappropriately or improperly (of which the Owner will be the final judge on their Property), or illegally, the Owner reserves the right to ask the guest and their party (at their discretion) to leave the Property before the end of the holiday period. Any refund for so doing will be at the entire discretion of the Owner in consultation with Canopy Camping Escapes.
The person who completes the Booking Form certifies that: he or she is authorised to agree the Booking Conditions on behalf of all persons included in the Booking Form, including those substituted or added at a later date; the signatory is over eighteen years of age; they agree to take responsibility for the party occupying the Property, and to notify Canopy Camping Escapes if they are not a member of the holiday party.
If you'd like to self-cater, River's Edge has all the facilities you need. Just bring your own food and cook meals using the BBQ and equipment provided in your private camp kitchen. You'll find cutlery, crockery, pots and pans, and utensils.
If you feel like a meal out, check out the fantastic cafes and restaurants in nearby Martinborough - there are plenty to choose from.
If you like the idea of an easy 'eat-in' catering solution, Good Times in Martinborough does 'Glamper Hampers' to collect on your way. Check out their menuand order here (or phone +64 226449816).
The nearest place for supplies is Martinborough, a 10-minute drive away.
Things To Do
Rest and rejuvenation is what a stay at River's Edge Retreat is all about. Relax at your tent and watch the changing light on the river directly in front of your tent. Watch the mist lift from valley in the morning. Take a long hot soak in the outdoor bath or lounge in a hammock with a good book. Connect over a board game or a game of cards.
There is lots to offer guests in the region too! If you want to get out and about - take a tour of the Martinborough vineyards. Lake Ferry and Camp Palliser are perfect for a scenic drive. Stop on the way at The Land Girl cafe in Pirinoa for fab coffee and a bite to eat.
Visit Wairarapa's version of stonehenge near Martinborough - a NZ interpretation of the famous English landmark. Patuna Farm just up the road, has the amazing Patuna Chasm walk - a nature walk and limestone gorge.
Your Hosts
Matt and Nicki Thomas are the owners and hosts of Rivers Edge Retreat, located on Llandrindod Farm, a sheep and beef farm owned and farmed by Matt’s father Rex.
Matt grew up at Llandrindod while Nicki grew up in Karaka, rural Auckland. After returning to NZ from their OE adventures, Matt brought Nicki back to the Ruakokopatuna Valley where they have settled with their two sons, Ben and Henry. Many summers have been spent enjoying the river and natural beauty of the area.
Glamping was seen as the perfect opportunity to share the natural environment of the farm, while providing a unique and luxurious style of accommodation. Having visitor accommodation close to home fits perfectly with the family’s busy lives. On top of keeping up with their children’s extra-curricular activities, Matt has his own farming operation and agricultural contracting business, while Nicki has a criminology and law degree. Developing the campsites at River's Edge has been an exciting experience, with Nicki thoroughly enjoying putting together all the interior details.
Both Nicki and Matt think that Martinborough, especially Ruakokopatuna is a pretty special place - and delight in sharing it with guests.
"
No WiFi, no electricity, but no need! This was a gorgeous place with gorgeous surroundings. So peaceful and it felt quintessentially kiwi! A very beautiful weekend away.
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- 20 Dec 2021
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It was peaceful, serene and just absolutely beautiful. So relaxing and so nice to be away from everything. Nothing beats coffee in the morning by the river. Just breathtaking.
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- 04 Dec 2021
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Everything was amazing and well thought out. The Ashley and Co amenities were a fabulous touch of luxury. Will definitely be back.
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- 30 Nov 2021
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A very relaxing, peaceful and beautful place. A great way to spend time with your partner.
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- 22 Nov 2021
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Really loved this place where my Husband and I shared some wonderful moments leading up to our wedding. It was wonderful to feel like we had our own little world and could just unwind and relax. The Spring weather made it cosy and light and I can imagine it would be lovely year round! I would be jumping in the river in the warmer months!
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- 29 Sep 2021
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Private surrounds, with a great feeling of getting away from it all. A good chance to reconnect with the hubby. Super comfy bed and cosy fire.
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Michelle Greatorex - 28 Apr 2021
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Embrace the remote nature of the experience, you won't regret it.
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Nathan Shippam - 27 Apr 2021
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A delightful secluded tent by the river. Lots of places to sit and enjoy the nature and birdlife. Serene and romantic, we would definitely come back - thank you for having us!
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Maria Ji - 02 Apr 2021
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Our stay at the Ruru Tent was the perfect chance to switch off and unwind. The whole place is simply crafted with a taste of luxury - it has everything you need. Being so close to Martinborough meant we were able to enjoy the wineries as well. We will definitely be back!
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Kristi Atkins - 10 Mar 2021
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Fantastic getaway to relax & unwind. Great to be off the grid from technology and enjoy some time reading, playing games or just chilling with a wine under the stars. Bath was amazing & the enviormentally friendly soap products smelled so good.
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Bronwyn Brown - 10 Mar 2021
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It was very nice and secluded. A great escape from the busyness of the city.
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Mike And Bex O'connor - 09 Feb 2021
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Quiet, peaceful country setting near the river, large flat grass area out the front. Tent was accommodating and cosy, separate kitchen facilities were sufficient, great modern BBQ, everything you need. Directions to find the Tent were clear, which was needed, as you wouldn't find it without them! Overall, a nice and very enjoyable experience.
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Philip Egley - 09 Feb 2021
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River’s Edge - Ruru Tent is a beautiful place of peace and tranquility. A complete escape from the hustle and bustle of busy lives. Unplugging from wifi and power is the best way to truly relax. All the little details have been thought of in a rustic charming sort of way, even hot running water to an outdoor bath tub!! Bliss!! Take me back!
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Karla Noon - 19 Jan 2021
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Wonderful location being surrounded by trees and the sound of birds, perfect escape for a couple!
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Melanie Cole - 11 Dec 2020
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Thank you for a fantastic stay. Amazing location and set up. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a weekend away.
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- 10 Dec 2020
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Beautiful location quiet and remote, but close enough to town for supplies. Loved the fireplace and cosy interior.
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Amanda Tuinman-Bell - 13 Nov 2020
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Loved the outside bath, soaking in a hot bubble bath outside in nature was a highlight experience.
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Angela O'gorman - 09 Nov 2020
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A tranquil and extremely private escape which provides off grid luxury. Everything you need is provided, including lovely bathroom products. The bath is situated above the river- so relaxing and picturesque. You can simply spend hours peacefully sitting in comfort observing nature at its best. We will most definately be back!
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Mirsha Odonnell - 06 Nov 2020
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Loved our stay. What a gorgeous spot. Even got up at 3 am to wander out on the grass to see the stars. Loved the outdoor eating spot with bbq etc. Felt we were in heaven. Thank you!
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Joanne Gordon - 04 Nov 2020
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Beautiful from the outset. Everything inside was immaculate and it was serenity at its best. Excellent communication and a great start to our “glamping” experience. Thank you so much!
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Glenn Blay - 16 Oct 2020
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The place was amazing, it was so nice to be fully disconnected from everything, just with nature around.
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George Barbarouses - 06 Oct 2020
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Beautiful spot. Very secluded, and a very well appointed 'tent'!
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Simon Coates - 23 Sep 2020
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Lovely stay. Would definitely stay again! Very private and peaceful. We loved hearing the birds chirping in the morning. It was just what we needed. So peaceful. Was super clean which made us feel comfortable during these uncertain times. We loved our stay.
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Sarah Vivian - 14 Sep 2020
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If you want to switch off and enjoy nature.. this is the place for you! The stream sounds like rain and the bath tub is located beautifully! Amazing place - will be back!
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Kayla Howey - 26 Aug 2020
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We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Ruru Tent. Everything was well thought out and planned, right down to the lanterns and fairy lights. The wee fire pallets to aid us city slickers to get the fire started were an absolute blessing. Highly recommend this accommodation!
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Jo Dewar - 17 Aug 2020
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It was so peaceful and really made you feel like you were miles away from everything! The place its self was extremely cosy and the facilities were great also, will stay again 100%
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Frances Meskill - 05 Aug 2020
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Absolutely beautiful place even in the middle of winter. I can only imagine how stunning it would be in summer/autumn. A very efficient fire that kept us toasty and warm. Everything you need for a wonderful break away. All the little extras made it that much more special.
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Carolyn Aberhart - 24 Jul 2020
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Ruru Tent was fantastic, I was a little concerned about winter glamping but the tent was lovely and warm with the fire on. We also experienced a fantastic variety of weather, was great to listen to rain on the roof and enjoy an outdoor bath in the sun. Thank you so much.
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Andrea Hancox - 02 Jul 2020
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Instructions were easy to follow and tent site was lovely and warm when we arrived, thanks to the hosts lighting the fire for us. My fiance and I really enjoyed ourselves and look forward to returning.
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Ethan Paige - 26 Jun 2020
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Our stay at the Ruru Tent was so peaceful and perfect. Nicki really has all the little things covered to make your stay amazing. We wouldn't hesitate to book again!
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Aimee Watkin - 03 Jun 2020
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Lovely weekend at Ruru tent. Comfortable, clean, well stocked and the bonus was a magical night sky complete with a million stars. Off the grid but only a 20 minute drive to Martinborough. Thoroughly enjoyed the walk to The Pinnacles.
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