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.
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.
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 - Te Awa Tent.
All Year Round:
River's Edge Te Awa - 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.
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.
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.
Eating and Drinking
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.
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.
"
The perfect spot to rest, reconnect and recharge. It felt like we were in the middle of nowhere, but loved that we could easily drive back into Martinborough to check out the cafes and vineyards.
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- 06 Apr 2022
"
Had the most amazing time away at the Te Awa tent! We have already recommended it to our close circles and will definitely be back. We felt like we were really off the grid and loved having no internet or power to really disconnect from our stresses and reconnect with nature. The bath was awesome and the outdoor kitchen area was super easy to use! This accommodation is one of a kind, we didn't want to leave!
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- 22 Mar 2022
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This is a great place for an escape to the country, yet still close to Martinborough and all that the area has to offer. Wished we could have stayed longer.
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- 15 Mar 2022
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The most lovely time away, surrounded by nature and no distractions. The tent was well designed and equipped, communication was amazing, and we didn’t have to leave for anything. The only downfall was that we didn’t have more time! We’ll definitely book for longer on our next visit.
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- 15 Mar 2022
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Awesome weekend away...a relaxing reset.
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- 24 Feb 2022
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An absolute amazing experience. Loved the peace and quiet and outdoor bath amazing.
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- 04 Feb 2022
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A haven off the grid getaway, peaceful, enchanting and a perfect spot to reconnect.
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- 02 Feb 2022
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Everything you need for a very comfortable stay. It’s lovely being close to Martinborough yet being in the quiet with only the sounds of the river and bird life.
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- 07 Dec 2021
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A very relaxing, off the grid experience, would definitely recommend.
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- 22 Nov 2021
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Super relaxing stay - so wonderful to have a break away without mobile coverage!
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- 22 Nov 2021
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Loved the solitude and the remoteness, perfect place to recharge life's batteries.
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- 16 Nov 2021
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A very relaxing place with everything you need. Perfectly remote, so peaceful with the sound of the river running past. We were fortunate to be able to stargaze the first night, with very clear skies. The outside bath was wonderful the following evening with a chilly overcast night. The potbelly fire kept us toasty and the bed was super comfortable! A perfect honeymoon.
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- 11 Nov 2021
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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
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- 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.
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- 28 Jul 2021
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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 ❤
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- 21 May 2021
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The most beautiful secluded spot to rest and relax. Immaculate presentation, clear instructions and exactly as described. Can’t wait to visit again.
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Kelly Mason - 10 May 2021
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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!
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Kathryn Marshall - 28 Apr 2021
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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.
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Tim Love - 02 Apr 2021
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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.
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Nicola Loomans - 02 Apr 2021
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Great spot, loved the tent, it felt like we were in the middle of nowhere. Absolutely perfect weekend away.
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Steve Fahey - 31 Mar 2021
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We loved being off the grid, the quiet but the luxurious accommodation. It was PERFECT!
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Carolyn Mettrick - 12 Mar 2021
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Fantastic site, very private and good facilities - we would recommend without hesitation.
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Jo Mcculloch - 09 Mar 2021
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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.
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- 16 Feb 2021
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Everything you need for a relaxing and peaceful trip away. Well worth the trip!
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Micaela Bailey - 13 Feb 2021
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Fantastic, romantic location for a weekend getaway. Really recommend! The bath and view was stunning - will be back again!
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Sarah Webb - 03 Feb 2021
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We enjoyed the sound of the river, the birds and the silence. It was a great escape from our busy city life.
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Lomio Taylor - 18 Jan 2021
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Beautiful spot by the river, perfect place for a relaxing getaway!
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- 16 Jan 2021
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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.
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Rebecca Foley - 12 Jan 2021
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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
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Bridgitte Galloway - 12 Jan 2021
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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✨
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Daina Aupapa - 29 Dec 2020
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Awesome location, excellent amenities and well thought out.
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Mel Nicholson - 28 Dec 2020
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We loved it. Such a beautiful, peaceful spot. Perfect place to unwind.
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Tony Vale - 27 Nov 2020
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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
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Vanessa Elers - 20 Nov 2020
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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!
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