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Ararimu Downs

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Ararimu Downs

Pukekawa, Waikato


Ararimu Downs is located in Pukekawa in the Waikato, just under 1 hour away from Auckland and Hamilton.

From its hilltop location, this idyllic retreat has sweeping views of native bush, gently rolling farmland and the stunning Waikato River. Whether you're enjoying your morning coffee or unwinding in the evening, the serene outlook from the cabin will leave you feeling completely at peace.

The cabin is simple and stylish. A comfortable bedroom contains a queen-sized bed and tranquil views of the river. There's a small kitchen and snug lounge area, and a separate bathroom.

Step out onto the deck and into the outdoors, where an exquisite wood-fired hot tub and brazier area await. Thoughtfully positioned to watch as the hues of dawn and dusk are mirrored on the water's surface.

Wander at your leisure through the farm and when it's a hot summer's day, head down to the river for a refreshing dip.

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Eating and drinking near Escape

EATING AND DRINKING

Ararimu Downs is self-catering. Just bring your own food and drink, and cook meals using the two-burner gas hob for cooking and Weber BBQ provided. You'll find all the cutlery, crockery, pots and pans that you'll need.

If you want a break from cooking at any stage, Pukekohe offers a variety of dining options for a night out. Franklin Bar and Eatery, Bazzas Steakhouse, The Good Home, and The Longkeeper are all just a 30-minute drive away. In Mercer, you can find Mercer Landing and Muddy Waters, an Irish pub, just 15 minutes away.

The nearest store for stocking up on food and supplies is in Pokeno, 15 minutes away, or Pukekohe, 20 minutes away.

Things to do near Escape

THINGS TO DO

Ararimu Downs is situated on a hill above the Waikato River, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding native bush, river and farmland. With such a stunning outlook, you'll never be bored with the view!

Stretch your legs and enjoy a leisurely walk around the farm and bushland. Head down to the river for a dip (note the track is steep so good fitness is required). Afterwards, relax and indulge in a soothing hot tub soak or play a game of pentaque. Enjoy sitting around the campfire to toast marshmallows and stargaze.

Nikau Caves is just 45 minutes away and offers a fascinating underground experience with stunning limestone formations and glowworm displays. Guided tours are also available.

If you want to visit the coastal town of Port Waikato, it's a 30-minute drive away. The town offers black sand beaches and is a great spot for water sports and fishing.

Hampton Downs Speedway hosts regular racing events with various vehicles, offering an adrenaline rush for motorsport enthusiasts.

Your hosts at Escape

YOUR HOSTS

Your hosts at Ararimu Downs are Ben and Samara.

Ben and Samara, along with their four children Jack, Tessa, Jed, and Tom, have owned the property since 2019.

The Cunninghams are farmers at heart, managing three farms across different locations. Samara takes care of their chicken farm in Pokeno, while Ben oversees the sheep, beef, and cropping farms. They also run a nationwide civil landscaping and erosion control business.

After experiencing glamping themselves, they were inspired to share their Pukekawa Property with others. The property boasts immense natural beauty but they knew it was just missing a roof under which to live and fully enjoy it.

The hosts warmly welcome you to enjoy this haven and create memories that will last a lifetime.

TESTIMONIALS

“ Ararimu Downs was the perfect off-grid getaway. Peaceful, relaxing, with amazing views over the Waikato and a hot tub to top it off. Loved that we could bring our dogs too. 10/10. ”

Kezia Watene- 2025-08-17

20 / 20

“ Our stay at the Canopy Camping escape at Ararimu Downs was nothing short of incredible. If you’re looking to truly switch off, recharge, and soak in the beauty of the countryside, this place absolutely delivers. The location itself is stunning—rolling farmland, peaceful surroundings, and wide-open skies that make you feel completely removed from the noise of everyday life. The setup is beautifully done, with everything thoughtfully prepared to make the experience both comfortable and unique. It’s the perfect mix of rustic charm and a few well-considered comforts. We enjoyed our stay! ”

Shane Taepa- 2026-05-25

1 / 20

“ My partner and I stayed for two nights with our dog. It's a very relaxing peaceful location and had everything we needed. ”

Katie Dettling- 2026-05-20

2 / 20

“ Amazing location, peaceful and relaxing. The woodfired hot tub is an absolute pleasure. 10/10. ”

Scotty Griffiths- 2026-04-24

3 / 20

“ This is a lovely location, which is far enough from the light pollution of Auckland and Hamilton, to be able to see the stars clearly. We saw Orion set and the milky way move over us. We also saw a moon rise! It was magical having an outdoor fire, roasting marshmallows looking up. The hot tub was amazing, it was from here we saw the moon rise. Location is 10/10. The accommodation was lovely and clean, and all you need for a lovely getaway without having to drive too far! ”

Asha Bearman- 2026-04-14

4 / 20

“ Ararimu Downs is the perfect place for a getaway. The views of the Waikato River whilst enjoying the wood-fired hot tub are a wonderful way to end the day. The tiny home has everything that you need for a few days away. We could have stayed longer. ”

Tracey Bruton- 2026-04-06

5 / 20

“ A really peaceful experience at Ararimu Downs, exactly what we needed. Instructions were perfect, every need had been already been considered by the hosts. It seems like a well organised operation. ”

VICTORIA MULLAN- 2026-03-18

6 / 20

“ Amazing location with basic amenities but everything you need for a relaxed disconnected weekend. ”

Nathan Lewis- 2026-02-26

7 / 20

“ If you want a place to relax and forget your busy life, this is the place to stay! ”

Clifford Banks- 2026-02-09

8 / 20

“ Ararimu Downs is truly one of those places that stays with you long after you leave. From the moment we arrived, we were surrounded by peaceful countryside views, fresh air, and a sense of calm that’s hard to find elsewhere. The property is beautifully maintained, thoughtfully designed, and perfectly balances comfort with nature. What made the experience even more special was the genuine hospitality, which was welcoming, attentive, and warm without ever feeling intrusive. It’s the kind of place where time slows down, mornings feel softer, and every moment feels intentional. Whether you’re looking for a quiet escape, a meaningful celebration, or simply a place to reconnect with nature and yourself, Ararimu Downs delivers beyond expectations. We left feeling rested, grateful, and already dreaming of our next visit. ”

Jan Mae Paguirigan- 2026-01-14

9 / 20

“ A beautiful getaway spot with the scenery and all the privacy you could wish for when needing time to relax and reset. The extras provided to us were amazing, the honey provided especially was a nice little birthday treat to enjoy on my day. Will be back. ”

Melissa Wong- 2026-01-10

10 / 20

“ Perfect spot for rest and relaxation, no need to go anywhere. Go for a walk to enjoy the surroundings or read a book to relax. Have a soak in the hot tub, bliss. ”

Liz Ewing- 2025-12-01

11 / 20

“ Amazing spot! ”

Simon Smith- 2025-11-03

12 / 20

“ Incredibly isolated stay so close to Auckland. Beautiful, tidy, and clean tiny home, loved the interior design. The hot tub was such a treat, and loved how close we felt to nature. Would highly recommend! ”

Sabrina Mah- 2025-10-29

13 / 20

“ Great weekend. Loved the wood burner-fuelled spa and outdoor fire. It was just a short trip out of Auckland, but we didn’t see a sign of life the whole weekend. We left feeling very relaxed, and our dog loved it too. ”

Nick Olsen- 2025-10-03

14 / 20

“ Ararimu Downs was such a dreamy stay. It was in the most beautiful location and extremely neat and tidy. We will absolutely be back. Our sausage dog loved his time here as well. ”

Caitlin Begbie- 2025-09-29

15 / 20

“ We had an amazing stay at Ararimu Downs Canopy Camping escape! The setting was absolutely beautiful, peaceful, private, and perfect for a relaxing getaway. We especially loved the outdoor fire pit and the spa, which had stunning views overlooking the Waikato River. It was such a treat to unwind there in the evenings. Our dog had the best time too, it was great to find such a pet-friendly spot where we could all truly relax. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a unique and tranquil escape in nature. ”

Madeline Davidson- 2025-09-14

16 / 20

“ Awesome private accommodation with great facilities! Very accommodating hosts. We loved our stay and highly recommend! ”

Mikayla Siddins- 2025-09-10

17 / 20

“ Absolutely loved our stay here, it was everything and more. So peaceful and relaxing, wish we could’ve stayed longer! ”

Lucy Hunt- 2025-08-25

18 / 20

“ Beautiful spot just out of Auckland. Amazing relaxing stay! Huge bonus being able to bring our dog. ”

Lucy Peters- 2025-08-24

19 / 20

“ Ararimu Downs was the perfect off-grid getaway. Peaceful, relaxing, with amazing views over the Waikato and a hot tub to top it off. Loved that we could bring our dogs too. 10/10. ”

Kezia Watene- 2025-08-17

20 / 20

“ Our stay at the Canopy Camping escape at Ararimu Downs was nothing short of incredible. If you’re looking to truly switch off, recharge, and soak in the beauty of the countryside, this place absolutely delivers. The location itself is stunning—rolling farmland, peaceful surroundings, and wide-open skies that make you feel completely removed from the noise of everyday life. The setup is beautifully done, with everything thoughtfully prepared to make the experience both comfortable and unique. It’s the perfect mix of rustic charm and a few well-considered comforts. We enjoyed our stay! ”

Shane Taepa- 2026-05-25

1 / 20

Scenic coastal landscape viewed through a golden tent opening, showing lush green hillside with forest line meeting turquoise ocean waters under clear blue sky

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