Our Story

Mike and Susie-lee welcomes you to there piece of paradise...

 


 

Mike's family have owned land in the Hapuku area since 1860's. Mike is a collector and our home is full of lots of quirky and interesting things.  Susie-lee enjoys art, pastel painting and charcoal, she works in her studio in the evenings. We are now on Facebook and instagram.  We welcome your comments.

 

A little history on the carriage.  The carriage was built in 1921 and was on a farm in Waiau for many years.  It was a guards van that was used as a shearers quarters for the workers.  In 2007 it was removed from the farm and is now situated in a rural setting with mountain views just north of Kaikoura.  It has now been carefully restored and luxuriously fitted out for your comfort.  You can enjoy the romance of the  rail era complete with the sound of the odd passing train.  Named "Kereru" after the native wood pigeons that frequent the area.  You will hear the odd train pass by during the day and evening.

 

Guests have full use of the grounds and hosts available when required.  Enjoy tea and coffee facility with complimentary continental breakfast. Enjoy the tranquil setting, viewing the mountains and listen to the waves roll in from the beach.  The beach is 2 mins walking and Kaikoura is only one of three places in the world where the mountain ranges meet the sea.

 

Hapuku Carriages is uniquely kiwi, Old World Charm and Hospitality! Relax and enjoy the tranquil location.  Have an outdoor bath under a thousand stars, Bliss!

 

Our quirky Pohutukawa cottage is also completely renovated using as many recycled materials as possible with some special touches. Recycled materials were used from The Art Deco Mayfair theatre in Kaikoura. Also materials used from The Adelphi Hotel built in 1918. Kitchen custom made out of recycled cross arms off power polls and various other native timbers. Modern conveniences with stacks of retro and rustic charm. Enjoy a hot outdoor bath with a view to the mountains and also only two minutes walk to the beach.

The cottage is walking distance from the carriage and right next door, if you are travelling with another couple and wish to book accommodation close together.

 

 

4 glimpse

 


 

Activities:

 

At Hapuku Carriages we have:

 

  • An awesome range of books, CDs/DVDs for you to sit back and enjoy
  • An outdoor bath
  • Deck area with seating
  • Surfing 
  • Access to walks on the beach

Kaikoura town is only 8 minutes drive and has a wide range of activities for all ages:

 

  • Whale watching
  • Dolphin Swimming
  • Kayaking
  • Surfing
  • Beach walks and walks up Mt Fyffe and Peninsula walk
  • Mini Golf
  • Seal Colony
  • Seafood Caravan
  • World Class Museum (Not to be missed)
  • Classic Car Museum (Bernies Diner)

 

Places to Eat:

 

  • The Pier Hotel Restaurant (lunch, dinner)
  • Zephyr Restaurant
  • Strawberry Tree (Pub)
  • The Whaler and Groper Garage
  • Bernies Diner Breakfast and lunch,  Also has Classic car museum
  • Bean Me Up (Great coffee and treats)
  • Slam Club