New Zealand is known for its stunning scenery, and one of the best ways to experience it is with a farm stay. Allpress Olive Groves on Waiheke Island, a 35-minute ferry from Auckland, offers just that, with a stay at your choice of four holiday homes on a property that makes olive oil.
Founded by Michael Allpress, the entrepreneur behind the well-known coffee brand, Allpress Olive Groves produces extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) from olives grown on its land. Olive varieties include ascolano, frantoio, verdale, leccino and pendolino, with all groves sustainable and chemical-free, and scattered around Waiheke Island.
“Extra virgin olive oils from Waiheke are some of the best in the world,” says Allpress, himself a native of Waiheke. “This comes back to the island’s unique terroir, diverse varietals and climate.”
In addition to accommodation, Allpress Olive Groves also offers mill tours, tastings and a store where you can buy what it produces. Near the property are beaches, coastal walks and restaurants. What Waiheke is easily best known for, though, are its wineries and cellar doors. It’s home to some of the most well-known vineyards in the Auckland region.
If you do choose to spend the night at Allpress Olive Groves, choose from four different homes in different areas of the groves, each in a different style and catering to differing needs. “All our homes are comfortable and characterful with glimpses of the sea, vintage furniture, electric art and textured, natural materials,” says Allpress.
There’s The Ranch, located on Waiheke’s western edge, that stands in a sheltered grove, surrounded by native bush. Sleeping 12, it’s ideal for a group of friends or extended family. Inside, you’ll find vintage rugs, works by New Zealand artists Pat Henly and David Hessel and a games room.
Next, there’s number29, which has views of the Hauraki Gulf and can sleep up to 10 people. Designed by award-winning architect Andre Hodgskin, the home has floor-to-ceiling sliding doors and an open lounge space that blends the inside with the rich native bush and Church Bay landscape outside. Décor includes Baumann armchairs, vintage ceramics from the Czech Republic and raku kiln works by New Zealand artist David Austin.
In the centre of the island, Rangihoua Villa sleeps eight. Sitting above Allpress’ most established grove and olive mill, it features views of the Pacific Ocean and a large pool. Inside the villa, you’ll find art, ceramics and furniture from New Zealand and European artists and makers, a mix of new and vintage. Outside are large, open fireplaces, cooking spaces and an oversized dining table so you can dine al fresco in the summer.
Finally, Matiatia Mill House is the most private. It sleeps six, and blends seamlessly into its native bush setting. Works by New Zealand artists Guy Ngan and David Hessel hang on its walls, while large windows frame views of the olive groves outside.
“Each home has its own distinct character to enable effortless outdoor living, providing an easy connection to nature,” says Allpress. “Considered design and thoughtful details also enrich your Waiheke experience.”
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