Our campsites are open and operating safely at this time.
If you live in New Zealand and we are unable to host you due to your stay being affected by an Alert Level 3 or 4 status, you will be offered a refund or postponement. If you live outside New Zealand (ie from Australia or Rarotonga), please arrange your own travel insurance as our standard cancellation policy will apply.
Rivers Edge - Te Awa Tent
Martinborough
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 Te Awa Tent, the most recent addition to River's Edge Retreat. The original tent at River's Edge is Ruru Tent.
The front of the tent has a large glass frontage, offering a beautiful river-side view. Te Awa Tent is tastefully decorated, with luxurious textiles, leather and hide features - a touch of old world charm with a modern twist.
A wood-burning stove creates a warm, comfortable, relaxing space - summer or winter.
The tent has an ensuite bathroom with piping hot water and a 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 listen to the sound of the river lull you to sleep...Bliss.
FROM
$295
p/n
Sleeps
2
A $50 Single Night Surcharge applies on top of the nightly rate when booking a single night. You will need to add this charge during the booking process. The calendar below will specify where one-night bookings are allowed.
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 Te Awa 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 down to the quarry, at this point there is signage for Te Awa tent pointing left. Take the track on the left.
Drive on this track towards the small shed, here is a sharp turn to the right. Please take this bend slowly and cautiously, check to make sure no rocks have fallen on the track before proceeding down the hill.
At the bottom of the hill follow the track which will take you to the tent gate with the sign "Te Awa Tent". Do not leave the track at any time, there are markers along the way to guide you.
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 supplied. 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 set just outside the tent.
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!
There is 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 not suitable for children and is a strictly adults-only site. The one exception to this rule is for non-mobile babies under 6 months with BYO bedding and portacot. If you are bringing your non-mobile baby, you'll need to mention this in the comments box when you book.
If you're looking for a safe family-friendly glamping site, select the family icon in the search bar on our 'find your escape' page to easily find them.
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.
There is a standard minimum stay period of 2 nights.
Single nights are only allowed where there is a one night gap between bookings. One night gaps between bookings will be made available to book online with a $50 Single Night Surcharge applicable.
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.
Our minimum night policies are strictly adhered to. Please note that there are no exceptions to the policies for Rivers Ede - Te Awa Tent.
Our minimum night policies are strictly adhered to. Please note that there are no exceptions to the policies outlined below for Rivers Edge - Te Awa Tent.
All Year Round:
There is a standard minimum stay period of 2 nights.
Single nights are only allowed where there is a one night gap between bookings. One night gaps between bookings will be made available to book online with a $50 Single Night Surcharge applicable.
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.
The standard nightly rate is $295 per night for up to 2 people.
Single Night Surcharge:
Where single nights are bookable (see Minimum Stay Periods) a Single Night Surcharge of $50 applies. Please apply this during the online booking process.
The Single Night Surcharge applies to all one night stays, even when there is only one night available. By their nature, glamping sites are more remote and time-consuming to service than more standard accommodation types. Therefore, in order to cover the costs and time involved, a Single Night Surcharge is applicable to all one night stays.
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 card 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 card at the time of booking. A 2.5% credit card payment surcharge will be applied to all credit card 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 card. If your internet banking payment has not been received within 24 - 48 hours, the remaining balance will automatically be charged to the credit card used at the time of booking. Please note: a 2.5% credit card payment surcharge is applied to all payments made by credit card. Credit 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 card 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 Campsites are 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 allowed unless otherwise specified on the website listing. Most campsites are situated on working farms, and therefore are not suitable for visiting pets.
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 menu and 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's 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.
"
Would highly recommend this glamping experience, even in winter (definitely remember to bring warm clothes for the chilly nights!).
Beautiful setting, luxurious tent, the outdoor bath is heavenly, and it's all only 10 minutes drive from Martinborough!
10/10
"
- 04 Aug 2021
"
This was the perfect place to unwind and relax. The lack of cellphone reception and power meant we could fully unplug and were kept snug by the fire. We switched off completely, read books and reconnected. It was the perfect place for a babymoon before I give birth in a month or so. Thank you for all the lanterns and such a beautiful place to rest.
"
- 28 Jul 2021
"
The tent was super cute, the area was beautiful and we loved the outdoor bath. Relax and soak in the bath with a nice drink, bliss ❤
"
- 21 May 2021
"
The most beautiful secluded spot to rest and relax. Immaculate presentation, clear instructions and exactly as described. Can’t wait to visit again.
"
Kelly Mason - 10 May 2021
"
Loved the venue, the facilities, being off the grid and that our fire was stoked for us when we went out for the day. Couldn't fault it!
"
Kathryn Marshall - 28 Apr 2021
"
Best glamping ever! Private, sunny and beautifully scenic. Very spacious comfortable tent. Numerous homely touches e.g fresh flowers and a bottle of wine. Cute wood burner. Well set up and had everything we needed. Super clean, had a flush toilet and hot shower. Lots of little lamps. Really delightful and loved our stay in this peaceful location.
"
Tim Love - 02 Apr 2021
"
It’s our second time staying at Rivers Edge. We love that it’s so quiet and off-grid. Close enough to explore what the Wairarapa has to offer as well! Can’t wait to be back.
"
Nicola Loomans - 02 Apr 2021
"
Great spot, loved the tent, it felt like we were in the middle of nowhere. Absolutely perfect weekend away.
"
Steve Fahey - 31 Mar 2021
"
We loved being off the grid, the quiet but the luxurious accommodation. It was PERFECT!
"
Carolyn Mettrick - 12 Mar 2021
"
Fantastic site, very private and good facilities - we would recommend without hesitation.
"
Jo Mcculloch - 09 Mar 2021
"
The most beautiful location and very tastefully furnished, everything was thought of and simply beautiful. Having no service was actually the very best outcome as we could fully relax and unwind.
"
Monique Sigvertsen - 16 Feb 2021
"
Everything you need for a relaxing and peaceful trip away. Well worth the trip!
"
Micaela Bailey - 13 Feb 2021
"
Fantastic, romantic location for a weekend getaway. Really recommend! The bath and view was stunning - will be back again!
"
Sarah Webb - 03 Feb 2021
"
We enjoyed the sound of the river, the birds and the silence. It was a great escape from our busy city life.
"
Lomio Taylor - 18 Jan 2021
"
Beautiful spot by the river, perfect place for a relaxing getaway!
"
Jane Evans - 16 Jan 2021
"
Our stay was absolute bliss. We swam in the river, enjoyed all of the amenities and ordered a dinner hamper that was truly glamorous. A must do.
"
Rebecca Foley - 12 Jan 2021
"
After seeing the advert for Glamping on Facebook and the pics I just had to go. I booked Te Awa tent for our wedding anniversary with Nikki who was very professional and every detail and instruction was provided by email on how to get there and what to expect. On arrival we were blown away even more breathtaking than the pics. We had complete privacy and it is definitely a great place to unwind, relax and destress. No phones, no TV and at one with nature. I would highly recommend and we really appreciated the wine left on the table for us. Thanks Nikki for a great stay. Bridgitte & Ian
"
Bridgitte Galloway - 12 Jan 2021
"
Te Awa tent is a an absolute gem, switching off and enjoying this wee retreat was bliss, from the sound of running water from the river, to the outdoor bath. I recommend to all, if you have thought about it, just book, you won’t regret it, we will definitely be back. Ps. Night sky is gorgeous✨
"
Daina Aupapa - 29 Dec 2020
"
Awesome location, excellent amenities and well thought out.
"
Mel Nicholson - 28 Dec 2020
"
We loved it. Such a beautiful, peaceful spot. Perfect place to unwind.
"
Tony Vale - 27 Nov 2020
"
We had the best sleeps listening to the river flow the trees rustle and the owls sing just what we needed! It was a stunning glampung stay
"
Vanessa Elers - 20 Nov 2020
"
One of the most stunning places we have ever stayed! The hosts were very warm, helpful and friendly. The tent itself was straight out a movie and was exactly what we wanted. Beautiful, quiet and so serene, just pure nature at its finest!
"
Hamish Woolgar - 06 Nov 2020
"
Absolutely beautiful and scenic spot to just relax and forget about our busy lives! Would recommend to everyone.
"
Karman Singh - 16 Oct 2020
"
Great location, great tent...the food was excellent from the recommended supplier.
"
Sean James - 24 Sep 2020
"
This was our first ever glamping experience and to be honest we were a bit nervous about being off the grid - no power or internet - but River's Edge Te Awa Tent was just amazing! The peace and quiet, the awesome fire - everything was perfect and only a 10-minute drive into Martinborough! Would love to go back one day.
"
Tim & Robynne Nunan - 17 Sep 2020
"
Te Awa, Rivers Edge is a perfect little getaway with the most beautiful surroundings, a great spot to break away from day to day life and feel like you're completely secluded. The tent was very clean and presentable with a cosy and homely vibe and the host, Nicki, was just lovely to deal with. We were lucky enough to catch a clear night sky, which was beyond beautiful, with the added bonus of shooting stars.
"
Kirstie Bryant - 11 Sep 2020
"
Perfect getaway! Private, pristine setting. A touch of camping mixed with some finer things.
"
Regan O’connell - 09 Sep 2020
"
We had a wonderful experience at Rivers Edge - Te Awa. It was peaceful, easy and very warm despite being middle of winter with a cracker frost. We came away feeling very relaxed 10/10.
"
Tyler Ashworth - 30 Jul 2020
"
Awesome location and lovely facilities!
"
Cheryl Egerton - 30 Jul 2020
"
Peaceful spot by the river, perfectly warm and cosy for our mid-winter stay and a great base to explore a gorgeous region.
"
- 24 Jul 2020
"
We had a fantastic one night stay, it felt like we were a world away from anyone. The tent was beautifully positioned and close to the river which meant gorgeous running water sounds all night. All the amenities were perfect including lots of small touches throughout. We had two outdoor baths, loving the peace and quiet. Thanks again for a great stay.
"
Kate Twigg - 07 Jul 2020
"
It was the most amazing trip away from everything, even in the rain it was the perfect cosy retreat.
"
Jessie Larsen - 27 Jun 2020
"
Great to switch off and relax in a beautiful setting. Warm, cozy and I loved the Bianca Lorenne comforter! Outdoor bath was amazing, hours can be spent there. A great place to rejuvenate!
"
- 14 Jun 2020
"
Everything right from the start made this weekend relaxing, including great communication from the hosts. You feel like you are away from everything, but so close to the luxuries of Martinborough. Everything in the tent is great quality, we would stay again.
"
Kate Stewart - 07 Jun 2020
"
Such a lovely way to spend a night away when you want to get away! Super peaceful and relaxing. Perfect if you just want to take some time out for yourself or have a romantic evening. I would highly recommend!
"
Ashleigh Mcrobie - 04 Jun 2020
"
A very comfortable stay, beautiful interiors and beautiful, private setting!
"
Duncan Turnbull - 11 Mar 2020
"
We spent our honeymoon at Te Awa, Rivers Edge and it was amazing! Such a beautiful, peaceful and restful spot.
"
Juliet Conway - 16 Oct 2019
"
Te Awa tent at River’s Edge was beyond what we imagined on our first glamping experience. It was so snug and warm, luxurious and completely relaxing for an unplugged weekend away with wineries only 15minutes down the road. What more could a girl want 😊
"
Amber Grant - 02 Oct 2019
"
Fantastic place we really enjoyed the peace and quiet just listening to all the animals would thoroughly recommend it .
Beautiful tents surrounded by nature, quirky cabins with packets of personality and secret hideaways that offer something completely unique... Explore the other places in our collection.
