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River's Edge - Te Awa Tent

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River's Edge - Te Awa Tent

Martinborough, Wellington-Wairarapa


River's Edge Retreat is unique accommodation set in the Ruakokoputuna Valley, just out of Wairarapa wine village, Martinborough and right in the centre of Wairarapa's new Dark Sky Reserve.

River's Edge has two separate luxury tents on the property both positioned in different private spots on the edge of a quiet, tree-lined river that runs through the farm. This listing is for Te Awa Tent, the most recent addition to River's Edge Retreat. The original tent at River's Edge is Ruru Tent.

The front of the tent has a large glass frontage, offering a beautiful river-side view. Te Awa Tent is tastefully decorated, with luxurious textiles, leather and hide features - a touch of old-world charm with a modern twist.

A wood burner stove creates a warm, comfortable, relaxing space in the cooler months.

The tent has an ensuite bathroom with piping hot water and a flushing toilet. A second doorway leads to a small but functional kitchenette.

River's Edge is the best kind of luxury accommodation. It's the ideal place for those looking to enjoy a weekend escape, celebrate an anniversary, or relax with a post-wedding wind-down. Breathe the country air and immerse yourself in nature. Soak in the outdoor bath overlooking the river and countryside.

Enjoy the pleasure of a glass of good Martinborough Pinot while dining al fresco under the stars. Relax in your plush, comfortable king-size bed and listen to the sound of the river lull you to sleep...Bliss.

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Eating and drinking near Escape

EATING AND DRINKING

River's Edge Ruru Tent is self-catering. Just bring your own food and drink, and cook meals using the BBQ and gas ring provided in your private camp kitchen. You'll find all the cutlery, crockery, pots and pans that you'll need.

If you feel like a meal out, check out the fantastic cafes and restaurants in nearby Martinborough as there are plenty to choose from.

The nearest store for stocking up on food and supplies is in Martinborough, a 10-minute drive away.

Things to do near Escape

THINGS TO DO

Rest and rejuvenation are what a stay at River's Edge Te Awa Tent is all about. Relax at your tent and watch the changing light on the river directly in front of your tent. Watch the mist lift from the valley in the morning. Take a long hot soak in the outdoor bath or lounge in a hammock with a good book. Connect over a board game or a game of cards, and when conditions permit cosy up and watch the night sky come alive in the heart of the Wairarapa Dark Sky Reserve.

If you want to get out and about, take a tour of the Martinborough vineyards. There is also Lake Ferry and Camp Palliser which make for an epic scenic drive. Stop on the way at The Land Girl cafe in Pirinoa for hot coffee and a bite to eat.

Visit Wairarapa's version of Stonehenge near Martinborough, an NZ interpretation of the famous English landmark. Patuna Farm just up the road, has the amazing Patuna Chasm walk - a nature walk and limestone gorge.

Your hosts at Escape

YOUR HOSTS

Matt Thomas and Niki Harrison are the owners and hosts of Te Awa Tent and started their glamping business "River's Edge Glamping" in 2015. It is located on Llandrindod Farm, a sheep and beef farm owned by Matt’s father Rex.

Matt grew up at Llandrindod while Niki grew up in Karaka, rural Auckland. After returning to NZ from their OE adventures, Matt brought Niki back to the Ruakokoputuna Valley where they have settled with their children. Many summers have been spent enjoying the river and natural beauty of the area.

Glamping was seen as the perfect and exciting opportunity to share the natural environment of the farm while providing a unique and luxurious style of accommodation. Having visitor accommodation close to home fits perfectly with the family’s busy lives, with Niki and the children often working together to prepare the tents for each guest. On top of keeping up with their children’s extra-curricular activities, Matt has his own farming operation and agricultural contracting business.

Both Niki and Matt think that Martinborough, especially Ruakokoputuna, is a pretty special place - and enjoy sharing it with guests.

TESTIMONIALS

“ Such a unique experience, so relaxing, beautiful location. Will be back. ”

Janetta Dykes- 2026-03-13

6 / 6

“ Great place to recharge the batteries. ”

Davina Mills- 2026-05-25

1 / 6

“ We had the best weekend at the Te Awa tent, it was our minimoon after the wedding! Lovely with the rain on the roof. ”

Sienna Wells- 2026-04-23

2 / 6

“ A wonderful relaxing stay. It felt like we were in the middle of nowhere, despite being only a short drive from Wellington. ”

Karen Pearce- 2026-04-13

3 / 6

“ The best weekend away to switch off from the outside world. No cellphone reception or power so we could have some quality time and be present with each other without any distractions. It was nice and quiet, it had everything we needed. We especially loved the outdoor bath. We also did the patuna chasm which was the perfect activity for our switch off/reset weekend. The drive to the tent was a little bit of an adventure. ”

Jaimee Taylor- 2026-04-06

4 / 6

“ I really needed a break after years of not having one. This beautiful place provided 'nourishment for the soul.' Exactly as pictured and described. A slice of paradise without any distractions. Only the noise of cicadas and the river. Bliss. ”

Nikki O'Donnell- 2026-03-20

5 / 6

“ Such a unique experience, so relaxing, beautiful location. Will be back. ”

Janetta Dykes- 2026-03-13

6 / 6

“ Great place to recharge the batteries. ”

Davina Mills- 2026-05-25

1 / 6

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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