The Original Homestead is the heart of Woodlands Farmstead, a 1900s colonial villa rich with history. Featuring five bedrooms, generous lounge and dining spaces, and high ceilings throughout, it retains its authentic character while introducing modern comforts. The freshly renovated kitchen and bathrooms provide contemporary ease that sits harmoniously within the home’s timeless charm.

Adjoining the homestead, a spacious rumpus room is accessed via a separate entry. It offers three single beds in a generous upstairs space, providing extra room and privacy for larger groups while still feeling connected to the homestead’s character and rhythm.

Built in the 1920s, Woodlands was once the home of Flight Lieutenant Harold Newton, a decorated WWI pilot whose pioneering spirit and love for the land shaped the farm’s story. Guests can immerse themselves in the history of the Newton family and the legacy of Harold Newton, who famously flew a monoplane from Belgium to New Zealand, a journey that captivated the nation. His pioneering spirit and deep connection to the land live on through the farm and the family who continue to care for it.

Days at Woodlands flow at a gentle pace: wander the expansive gardens, play board games in the rumpus room, relax on the verandah with a quiet drink, or simply enjoy the peaceful rhythm of the countryside. Heritage, nature, and thoughtful design combine to create a retreat that is both restorative and deeply rooted in Taranaki’s past.