We’ve had great summer bookings already — and October’s still open for those wanting a quieter Wellington stay before the busy season!
The Pīwakawaka (Fantail) Gatehouse in leafy Wadestown offers an elegant 3BR, 2BA retreat that blends modern comfort with greenery and New Zealand touches. With open living, curated art, and lush foliage, it’s a refined yet relaxed base to pause, explore, and feel at home.
The lounge and dining area flow together, styled with timber floors, native foliage, and a striking Pukaki Lake print — a nod to Aotearoa’s natural beauty. Entertainment includes TV with Netflix and Apple TV, as well as books and board games.
The modern kitchen comes fully equipped with oven, gas stovetop, microwave, dishwasher, air fryer, kettle, toaster, and Breville coffee maker. A coffee station features locally roasted Good Fortune Coffee, paired with a Nespresso Aeroccino 4 for silky froth. Cooking essentials like salt, pepper, and oil are provided.
Three comfortable bedrooms feature queen beds with crisp linen, wall heaters, and electric blankets. Bedroom 1 includes its own ensuite and a light-filled workspace. Bedroom 2 offers a cosy reading nook by the window, while Bedroom 3 includes a desk and a Rangitoto Island print for inspiration.
The bathrooms are stocked with Glow Lab shampoo, conditioner, and body wash, along with heated towel racks, fresh towels, and hair dryers. A Miele washer–dryer combo, drying rack, and ironing facilities are also provided.
Step outside to a leafy deck framed by citrus trees and potted lemons — a peaceful spot for morning coffee or evening wine. The surrounding greenery attracts native birds; you may spot kākā, tūī overhead, and of course our namesake, the playful pīwakawaka (fantail). The Gatehouse also sits beneath Te Ahumairangi Hill, with local trails and scenic lookouts nearby — perfect for hiking and connecting with nature just beyond your door.
Guests have full access to the self-contained unit via a private entryway with self check-in. Two secure garage spaces with keypads are provided, suitable for most cars (not long vans or utes). If arriving early, luggage may be left in the garage, though it remains the responsibility of the guest.
Access to the property is via about 20 outdoor stairs. They’re well maintained and fine for most guests, but may not suit anyone with limited mobility.
We live upstairs in a separate unit. You’ll have your own private entrance and complete privacy, though from time to time you may hear a little household noise. We like to be upfront about this, while reassuring you that day-to-day it’s very quiet.
At the edge of the garden there’s a small creek with a drop. Most of it is protected by hedges, though one short section is still growing in. Warning signs are in place, but care is needed, especially with children.
The house itself isn’t child-proofed — the furniture and fittings are designed with adults in mind. For that reason, it’s generally not suitable for little ones aged 0–6. Families are welcome, but close supervision is essential.
Getting around
The Gatehouse is in a peaceful neighbourhood, yet close to the city.
• 3-minute walk to bus stop, local café, and fish & chips shop
• 6-minute drive to Wellington Train Station
• 7-minute drive to Sky Stadium and the Botanic Garden
• 5-minute drive to the Beehive
• 10-minute drive to Te Papa and Oriental Parade
• 1- minute walk from the Gatehouse you can walk straight onto Te Ahumairangi Hill trails, or take a short drive up to the lookout for sweeping views of Wellington Harbour and the city.
