Mahu Whenua

Wanaka, New Zealand

A jewel in the crown

Mahu Whenua is in the middle of a vast estate comprising four adjoining sheep stations stretching all the way from Wanaka to Arrowtown. Mahu Whenua means ‘healing the land’ in Maori and since purchasing the property in 2005, the owner has regenerated the land, introduced sustainable farming practices and initiated a plant regeneration and native bird breeding programme. The resulting landscape is a sight to behold.

The Ridgeline Homestead blends high-end indulgence with total immersion in the natural surroundings and captivating views of Lake Wanaka and the surrounding mountains. Guests are accommodated in one of just four luxury suites. Two are ‘Homestead Suites’ located inside the homestead with uninterrupted views of the mountains and Lake Wanaka, and two are ‘Cottage Suites’ nestled privately amongst native beech forest with fabulous views of the Motatapu Valley, mountains and stables.  All enjoy king sized beds, big bath tubs and décor that perfectly blends rustic charm with modern style. The main lodge offers a large open living area with expansive views, two dining areas, a games room and a library. The cuisine is excellent with menus featuring the freshest local produce, some of which is home grown. An endless list of activities includes hiking, fly fishing, horse riding, rock climbing, yoga, art, photography and wine tasting.

Mahu Whenua  is an eco-conscious but wildly indulgent country retreat where nothing is too much trouble and no detail is forgotten.

 

 

 

 

 

You will love

  • Wild, remote & beautiful
  • The view from the bathtub
  • Produce fresh from the land
  • Countless outdoor adventures
  • Regeneration & bird conservation

 

Luxury Ridgeline Homestead at Mahu Whenua, showcasing stunning architecture and panoramic views of Lake Wanaka and the surrounding mountains, set in a serene natural landscape.
Luxury suite deck at Mahu Whenua overlooking expansive mountains and lush landscapes, featuring red wooden chairs and glass railing, embodying high-end accommodation in Wanaka.
Luxury lounge in Mahu Whenua with panoramic views of Lake Wanaka and mountains, featuring rustic decor, elegant furnishings, and warm lighting.
Luxury poolside view at Mahu Whenua, surrounded by scenic mountains and lush greenery, showcasing the tranquil atmosphere of the Ridgeline Homestead in Wanaka.
Luxurious sitting room in Mahu Whenua, featuring stone walls, wooden beams, elegant furnishings, and captivating views of Lake Wanaka, showcasing high-end accommodation amidst natural beauty.
Luxury Ridgeline Homestead at Mahu Whenua, surrounded by lush green landscapes and mountains, offering stunning views of Lake Wanaka, New Zealand.
Luxury bedroom suite at Mahu Whenua with panoramic views of mountains and natural landscape, featuring plush bedding and elegant decor.
Aerial view of Mahu Whenua's Ridgeline Homestead surrounded by lush greenery and a swimming pool, showcasing luxury accommodation in the Wanaka region of New Zealand.
Luxury kitchen and dining area in Mahu Whenua Ridgeline Homestead, featuring wooden dining table, stylish chairs, and open view to outdoor pool area amidst stunning natural surroundings.
Chef preparing a gourmet dish in a luxury kitchen, showcasing fresh, local ingredients, reflecting Mahu Whenua's commitment to sustainable farming and high-end culinary experiences.
Luxury suite at Mahu Whenua featuring wooden flooring, large windows with mountain views, and elegant furnishings, showcasing the blend of high-end comfort and natural beauty in Wanaka.
Aerial view of Mahu Whenua Homestead surrounded by lush greenery and stables, highlighting sustainable farming practices and natural landscapes in Wanaka, New Zealand.
Mahu Whenua Homestead surrounded by lush green fields and majestic snow-capped mountains, showcasing the natural beauty of the Wanaka region in New Zealand.

Thank you for putting together the ancestral adventure of a lifetime. I cannot speak highly enough of the trip. The transfers went smoothly, the accommodation was excellent, the drivers were amazing as they manoeuvred through the traffic and every tour guide had a great deal of knowledge and information. Nothing was too much trouble for them. The contrast of poverty and riches of the country was striking, from the beggars in the street and struggles of the poor to the spectacular, impressive sights of the forts and monuments. There were so many highlights. A moment in time that will never happen again.

Jenny Kidd

Exellent and wonderful, reaching way above expectations.

Elizabeth Mackintosh

We wanted the opportunity to see as many wildlife parks as possible and the Classic Safari Company provided an action-packed itinerary that included six, with 11 tiger sightings and nine leopard. This was overlaid with an introduction to Jaisalmer, Jaipur and the 'real' India. Pench and Panna were the hidden gems of a really great trip, very well organised, seamless and enjoyable. As a solo traveller I felt incredibly safe at all times. I want to go back!

Mark Taylor

Julia you did a fantastic job - everything was first class. Well organised, efficient and stress free. We all agreed it was the best holiday we've ever had. Cant wait to travel with CSC again.

Milford family

We are so happy we put our trust in CSC, we had an amazing adventure and would recommend them to anyone.

Kim & Brad Balance

The trip exceeded my expectations and was the best family holiday I have ever had. Our children simply loved it and now I know more about African wildlife than they do about our own farm animals.

Rowntree family

Classic Safari are the people who genuinely know other culture and offer incredible insight to perfectly meet your expectations.

Melanie McMillan & Iain Jones

We loved it all. Our son wants to go back tomorrow. We would ALL go back again!

Laurence & Remi Cunningham

An amazing experience - the best family holiday we have ever had. We were extremely impressed by the meticulous attention to our itinerary. I can't speak highly enough of all the elements of this exciting journey!

Sheryl & Robert Taylor

Thank you for making our trip to Africa so spectacular. The attention to detail really made it special. It really was the trip of a lifetime.

Paul Cozzi

Very knowledgeable and patient. Our trip was all that we hoped for. Wonderful!

Jane & Robert Happell

Everything was perfect! Advice and information on destinations and activities hit everything I had hoped to experience. I contacted the Classic Safari Company upon recommendation and have now, in turn, recommended to others.

Tim Bradley

You can't improve on perfection. I had my best birthday and holiday with my family celebrating my 80th birthday in Africa. Everything that Julia organised was perfect and the whole trip was a highlight!

Buckingham Family

The trip of a lifetime, couldn't have dreamt of a better adventure if I tried.

Emma Jeffcoat

Absolutely everything was first class & so well organised.

Simon & Jackie Adams

Classic Safari Company has done it again! A unique experience that ticked all the boxes - wildlife, culture and dining experience. A dream come true!

Ros Wheeler

Their experience and knowledge of Africa is evident and we couldn't have been happier with the total package. This has given us a taste for Africa - now we are ready for more.

Andrew & Pip Stevens

If you want the most sensational experience in Africa let Julia and the staff at Classic Safari Co plan it for you! Their knowledge, expertise and enthusiasm for their job means your every wish will be fulfilled.

Miriam & Joseph Harrison

Classic Safari is the place to go to for "top end" adventure travel.

Ron & Alison Guthrie

Classic Safari Company were brilliant - 10/10

Di & Kingsley Yates

The Classic Safari Company is the best I have dealt with. Extremely knowledgeable & professional, friendly, patient & understanding of first timers to Africa.

Annette Whiley

It certainly was the best trip we have EVER had. The experiences were mind blowing.  We want everyone we know to experience Africa - the animals, the people - magical.

Jo-anne & Dean Mifsud

Would do it all again and not change a moment. Best holiday ever!

The McGowan Tribe

An absolutely fantastic travel company - every one of the many trips they have organised for us over 22 years have been faultless and fabulous.

Judith & Roger Williams

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