HOME

To make or discuss a booking, phone or text Graeme on 021 117 5219 (no messages). WE DO NOT CHARGE CLEANING FEES.
 
HOME OF THE GIANT QUEENSLAND KAURI TREE = 36 FT OR 11 MTRS AROUND.
Only 5 min from the CBD.
We have a separate self contained 2 B R lodge on the grounds.
There are 2 acres of botanical gardens with beautiful walkways.
Our home is one of the original homesteads of Whanganui dating back to the 1880s.
We are 5 min from all the main attractions:
Virginia Lake
Waimarie Paddle Steamer
Durie Hill Tower & Elevator

The space

Originally the homestead for a 980 acre estate. We are a large colonial homestead dating from 1880.,,,reconstructed in 1906. The house and gardens have been restored back to their original condition...with a few modern improvements.
The Lodge is away from the main homestead and is like living in your own home.
The only sounds you will hear are the birds singing in the morning.

Guest access

Guests are free to roam through the garden paths and examine the farm machinery dating from the 1890 to 1910.
Look at our famous Queensland Kauri tree that is 36 feet (11 metres) around.
It is also the most southern Q/Kauri tree in New Zealand .. one expert said in the world.
Our gardens are at there best from October through to end of March.
We have parking on site.

Interaction with guests

If guests need help or information Graeme is always available... just ring the homestead doorbell.

Arles Historical Homestead

The story of Arles Historical Homestead began in about 1870, when Irish surgeon Morgan Grace bought a large tract of land off John Fleetwood. The 6652m house that stands there today was built by his son Russell in about 1907, extending upon his father's 1880's dwelling. It was built in high Edwardian style for the princely sum of £4000.00, and actually hosted Edward Prince of Wales in 1920. The magnificent garden includes an awesome Queensland kauri (11 metres round, 0r 36 feet!), which is listed in Burstall & Sale's 'Great Trees of New Zealand'. In the 1980s the stand-alone lodge was added. Bookings can be made here.

Your hosts

Graeme and Revessa bought Arles in 2017. The couple have previously owned historical homes elsewhere in NZ, and they place a high value on local heritage and history. As the feedback below will show, they are widely acknowledged as friendly and helpful hosts.

What others say

Best place to stay in Wanganui… amongst the treetops and the birds… what a treat! The owner of the property is tops… thank you, G, for sharing your book, for giving us the history of this wonderful house and its setting. It was the second visit for one of us and we will definitely be back. Our miniature schnauzer loved it too! Thank you! Very comfortable, private, and generous accommodation in an exceptional garden.

Dianne
New Zealand

A must-stay in Whanganui. An excellent accomodation, good value for the money. Beautiful and comfortable, well equipped kitchen.

Agustina
New Zealand

Calm, comfy and welcoming. 🙂 Set back off the road surrounded by well maintained gardens worth a walk around. Apartment was in keeping with the historical homestead alongside.

Bernice
France

We knew the apartment was on an historic property but nothing had prepared us for the incredible garden and the approach to the house. The apartment is spacious, well equipped and furnished with a very comfortable bed and full kitchen. We met Graeme and had a long chat about the house, and life and politics, etc, etc. What a charming man he is and very helpful in helping us plan our next day’s activities. Highly recommended!

David
Australia

The place was absolutely gorgeous. Graeme was incredibly hospitable and helpful, giving us great ideas of where to go to eat in town (which is very close!). The vibe was amazing and everything was perfect.

Amber
Australia

Very comfortable accomodation for family of 4; beautiful location; close to town; Graham and Revessa were very helpful and supportive throughout our 10 day stay. We would definitely choose to stay here again, and would highly recommend to family and friends.

Andrew
Australia

I would happily book here again. 🙂 Lovely apartment, cleaned to very high standard, in beautiful grounds of a bigger house, well stocked with tea, coffee, local information, books and games, A great base to explore the wider area.

James
United Kingdom

Fair price considering the age of the property. Friendly host and very clean rooms.

Joey
New Zealand

Close to town but felt like living in a park with lovely trees. Nice and quiet.
Beautiful property.

Kathleen
New Zealand

Loved it! 🙂 Beautiful homestead in a gorgeous garden, a feeling of yesteryear!!!
The whole experience was great!

Ronit
Israel