About
Mahaanui Farmstay Experience offers unique Tiniroto accommodation on a traditional working sheep and beef farm in the Gisborne region, surrounded by rolling hill country, native bush and the picturesque Hangaroa River.
Located approximately halfway between Gisborne and Wairoa, Mahaanui offers three distinctive places to stay: a secluded riverside cabin for couples, a self-contained family cottage and private group accommodation.
Hosted by Simon and Sally, Mahaanui combines genuine New Zealand farm hospitality with outdoor adventures, river activities and opportunities to experience life on a working farm.
Whether planning a romantic getaway, family holiday or group escape, Mahaanui provides a peaceful rural retreat away from the crowds.
Why Choose Mahaanui Farmstay?
- Authentic working sheep and beef farm
- Three private accommodation options
- Secluded riverside cabin for couples
- Outdoor wood-fired hot tub at the River Cabin
- Self-contained family cottage sleeping up to eight
- Private group accommodation sleeping up to 10
- Beautiful Tiniroto hill-country setting
- Access to the Hangaroa River
- Swimming, kayaking and fishing
- Scenic farm walks and native bush trails
- Opportunities to experience working farm life
- Spectacular rural scenery and incredible unpolluted night skies
- Welcoming hosts and genuine country hospitality
- Pet-friendly options available with prior approval
Tiniroto Accommodation at Mahaanui Farmstay
Mahaanui offers three unique accommodation options, catering for couples, families, independent travellers and groups.
Each provides a different way to experience the beauty and tranquillity of rural Gisborne.
River Cabin – Romantic Riverside Retreat
The Mahaanui River Cabin is a secluded, off-grid retreat nestled amongst mature native trees beside the Hangaroa River.
Designed for two guests, this private cabin is ideal for romantic getaways, honeymoons, anniversaries and couples wanting to disconnect from everyday life.
The River Cabin features:
- Queen bed with quality cotton linen
- Private outdoor wood-fired hot tub
- Solar-powered lighting and USB charging
- Solar-powered fridge
- Kitchen facilities and gas cooking
- Cosy wood-burning stove
- Outdoor shower with hot water
- Eco-friendly composting toilet
- Outdoor BBQ and seating
- Double hammock and relaxing daybed
- Private river access
- Swimming, kayaking and fishing
- Optional catered meals featuring farm and local produce
Built using recycled and sustainable materials, the cabin offers an eco-friendly experience without Wi-Fi.
Guests can explore the river, enjoy scenic walks or relax in the hot tub beneath the stars.
Ideal for: Couples, romantic getaways, honeymoons and special occasions.
Explore the Mahaanui River Cabin
Mahaanui Cottage – Family & Group Farmstay Accommodation
Mahaanui Cottage offers spacious, self-contained accommodation surrounded by picturesque gardens and farmland.
The cottage is particularly popular with intergenerational families and groups wanting to stay together, with comfortable accommodation for up to eight guests. It can sleep up to 11 guests when the pullout lounge bed and additional single bed in one of the lounges are used.
For groups wanting more living space, eight guests provides the most comfortable configuration and leaves the second lounge available for everyone to enjoy.
Facilities include:
- Three bedrooms and two bathrooms
- Comfortable accommodation for up to eight guests
- Maximum capacity of 11 using additional lounge sleeping arrangements
- Fully equipped kitchen
- Two living areas
- Dining area
- Two wood-burning fireplaces
- Covered deck with BBQ
- Laundry facilities
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
- Television and DVD player
- Books, games and children’s activities
- High chair and porta-cot available
- Fenced garden
- Ample parking
- Kayaks and life jackets
The Cottage is a great choice for extended families, intergenerational holidays and groups of friends wanting to stay together while enjoying the Mahaanui farmstay experience.
Ideal for: Families, extended and intergenerational family groups, and groups of friends.
Mahaanui Quarters – Affordable Group Accommodation
Mahaanui Quarters offers simple, affordable accommodation for groups wanting a relaxed country stay in Tiniroto.
With space for up to 10 guests in their own beds, the Quarters has a practical, backpacker-style setup well suited to groups of friends, families and travellers who value being able to stay together.
Facilities include:
- Accommodation for up to 10 guests in individual beds
- Two bedrooms with twin and bunk-style sleeping arrangements
- Two showers
- Fully equipped kitchen
- Dining seating for 10
- Wood burner and heaters
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
- Television and DVD player
- Washing machine
- Outdoor BBQ
- Fenced outdoor seating area
- Parking
- Kayaks and life jackets
The Quarters is located approximately 700 metres from Mahaanui Cottage, providing separation and privacy between the two accommodation options.
Ideal for: Groups of friends, families and budget-conscious travellers.
Experience Life on a Working New Zealand Farm
A stay at Mahaanui provides an opportunity to experience life on a traditional working sheep and beef farm.
Farm experiences can include working dog and sheep shearing demonstrations, providing guests with an insight into everyday farming life and the skills involved in running a New Zealand farm.
For smaller groups, additional farm experiences may be available by arrangement. Due to safety and vehicle capacity, ATV and side-by-side farm tours are not suitable for large groups.
Experiences depend on farm activities, group size and availability, so guests should discuss options directly with Simon and Sally.
River Activities, Farm Walks & Outdoor Adventures
The Hangaroa River is one of Mahaanui’s most memorable natural attractions.
Guests can enjoy a range of outdoor activities, including:
- Swimming in the river
- Kayaking
- Fishing
- Scenic farm walks
- Exploring native bush
- Picnics beside the river
- Birdwatching
- Cycling
- Relaxing in peaceful surroundings
- Stargazing on clear evenings
From riverside relaxation and exploring the surrounding farmland to stargazing beneath Mahaanui’s incredible unpolluted night skies, there are plenty of opportunities to slow down, reconnect with nature and enjoy the peaceful Tiniroto countryside.
Peaceful Rural Accommodation in Tiniroto
Mahaanui is located in beautiful Tiniroto, approximately halfway between Gisborne and Wairoa.
Surrounded by rolling farmland, native bush and open countryside, the property offers a peaceful rural escape approximately 1.5 hours’ drive from Gisborne and 1 hour from Wairoa.
The secluded location is ideal for couples wanting privacy, families looking for outdoor adventures and groups seeking a relaxing country getaway.
Visitors should check the latest driving directions before travelling, as rural road conditions and access routes may change.
Explore Tiniroto, Gisborne & the East Coast
Mahaanui provides a memorable base for exploring Tiniroto and the wider Gisborne and East Coast region, with spectacular countryside, outdoor adventures and several fascinating places to discover.
Nearby attractions and day-trip options include Hackfalls Arboretum, the Rere Rockslide, Mahia Peninsula and Lake Waikaremoana, giving guests plenty of opportunities to explore beyond the farm.
The journey through Tiniroto offers spectacular hill-country scenery and a glimpse into traditional rural life, while Mahaanui’s secluded setting provides a peaceful place to return to at the end of the day.
For more places to visit, things to do and travel inspiration, browse our Gisborne Region Travel Guide.
Book Direct with Mahaanui Farmstay Experience
Experience the beauty of rural Gisborne at Mahaanui Farmstay Experience.
Whether planning a romantic riverside escape, family holiday or group getaway, Mahaanui offers three distinctive accommodation options surrounded by beautiful countryside.
Support local and book direct with Mahaanui Farmstay Experience.
Location
Where you'll find them
1856 Ruakaka Road, Tiniroto, Gisborne, 4078, New Zealand
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
Where is Mahaanui Farmstay Experience located?
Mahaanui Farmstay Experience is located at 1856 Ruakaka Road, Tiniroto, in the Gisborne region of New Zealand. The property is situated in beautiful rural hill country between Gisborne and Wairoa.
What accommodation is available at Mahaanui Farmstay?
Mahaanui offers three private accommodation options: the River Cabin for two guests, the self-contained Cottage for up to eight guests and the Quarters for groups of up to 10.
Is Mahaanui suitable for families?
Yes. Mahaanui Cottage is particularly suitable for families, offering three bedrooms, two bathrooms, spacious living areas, a fully equipped kitchen and outdoor activities.
Can groups stay at Mahaanui?
Yes. Mahaanui is particularly well suited to families and groups wanting to stay together. The Cottage comfortably accommodates up to eight guests and can sleep a maximum of 11 using additional lounge beds, while the Quarters provides individual beds for up to 10 guests.
Does the River Cabin have a hot tub?
Yes. The River Cabin features a private outdoor wood-fired hot tub, ideal for relaxing beneath the stars.
Can guests experience farm life at Mahaanui?
Yes. Mahaanui is a working sheep and beef farm, and guided farm experiences may be available by arrangement with the hosts.
What activities are available at Mahaanui?
Guests can enjoy swimming, kayaking, fishing, farm walks, cycling, birdwatching and exploring the natural surroundings.
Are farm tours available for groups?
Farm experiences are available by arrangement and may include working dog and sheep shearing demonstrations. ATV and side-by-side farm tours are better suited to smaller groups due to safety and vehicle capacity.
Is Mahaanui pet-friendly?
Pets may be permitted at Mahaanui Cottage and Quarters with prior approval. The River Cabin does not accommodate pets.
Does Mahaanui have Wi-Fi?
Wi-Fi is available at Mahaanui Cottage and Quarters. The off-grid River Cabin does not have Wi-Fi, providing an opportunity to disconnect and enjoy the natural surroundings.
Is Mahaanui River Cabin suitable for children?
No. The River Cabin is designed for two adults and is not suitable for children. Families can choose Mahaanui Cottage or Quarters.
Is Mahaanui accommodation self-contained?
Yes. Mahaanui Cottage and Quarters provide self-contained accommodation with kitchen and living facilities. The River Cabin also has private cooking facilities for an off-grid stay.
Can guests book Mahaanui Farmstay directly?
Yes. Guests can check availability and make accommodation bookings directly through the Mahaanui Farmstay Experience website.
Enquire
Nearby
Things to do nearby
Activities and tours nearby that pair well with your stay.
