Ikamatua, a small town on the West Coast of New Zealand's South Island, offers visitors a unique rural experience with its farm and station stays. The region is known for its stunning landscapes, from the majestic native bush to the famed Heaphy Track, and activities such as hiking, white water rafting, and gold panning.
One of the farmstays in Ikamatua is a 120-year-old wooden homestead, nestled among mature oak trees on the bank of the Rough River. This farmstay offers a self-contained two-room unit for guests, with all meals provided. The property is known for its excellent fishing opportunities.
Another option is the Ahaura Lodge, located in a private valley on Waterwheel farm, a working arm on the West Coast. This eco-lodge is surrounded by beautiful native forest, home to an abundance of native birds. Accommodation options include backpacker-style rooms in the recently restored shearers quarters, quaint cottages for smaller groups, and unpowered sites for camping.
These farm and station stays provide visitors with an opportunity to experience the rural lifestyle of New Zealand's West Coast, immerse themselves in nature, and enjoy the region's unique activities and landscapes.