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The Floating Home

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The Floating Home

Ohariu, Wellington-Wairarapa


Just 25 minutes from Wellington's city centre, The Floating Home is a peaceful retreat for couples seeking stillness.

Floating on a glassy pond among rolling farmland hills, the deck hovers just above the water's surface, blurring the line between inside and out. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors saturate the space with light, framing views of native bush, open farmland, and the pond's mirror-like reflection. Inside, warm plywood walls and a skylight create a mood that's cosy and unhurried. A wood burner sits in the corner, while the compact kitchen has everything you need for a relaxed self-catered stay. The bedroom with an ensuite is dressed in lovely linens to make sleep-ins extra luxurious.

Step outside onto the covered deck to birdsong, grazing sheep, and the gentle soundtrack of the countryside. A small boat sits ready for a quiet paddle on the pond.

Close enough to Wellington to catch a good meal and a glass of wine, but far enough to feel like you've left the world behind.

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Eating and Drinking

EATING AND DRINKING

The Floating Home is self-catering. Just bring your own food and drink, and cook your meals using the single induction hob, Ninja Air Fryer mini oven, and Weber Q BBQ provided. You'll find all the cutlery, crockery, pots and pans that you'll need.

If you want a break from cooking, 1841 Bar and Restaurant is a great option for dinner, or pop into Common Ground Café at Johnsonville Library for a coffee and sweet treat.

For more options, Wellington CBD is just 25 minutes away, with no shortage of great food and drink to explore.

The nearest store for stocking up on food and supplies is in Johnsonville, 12 minutes drive away.

Things to Do

THINGS TO DO

At the cabin, while away the hours with cards or Bananagrams, or lace up your boots and head out on The Te Araroa Trail, which passes just 50 metres from the property.

In the region, there's plenty to keep you busy. Horse riding, fishing, bush walks, and mountain biking are all within easy reach. Just 12 minutes away, Spicer Forest in Porirua has trails for every level, from gentle grade 2 trails to expert terrain.

From nearby Johnsonville (12 minutes away), you have the option to jump on a train and be in Wellington city in no time.

Your Hosts

YOUR HOSTS

Your hosts at The Floating Home are Mark and Shelley.

Mark and Shelley have called this little piece of paradise home for over a decade - drawn here by the promise of big gardens, open space, and a life closer to nature. They share the property with their golden Labrador, Sadie, and pet chickens.

It was Mark who first dreamed of building a cabin on the pond shortly after they moved in, and after years of planning, The Floating Home is finally ready to share with the world. When they're not working, Mark as a firefighter, and Shelley in the office, you'll find them out in the gardens, wandering the local walking tracks, or watching kererū and tūī move through the trees. On clear nights, the stargazing here is something special.

They moved to Ohariu because they wanted more of what matters. Now they're inviting you to experience it too. They can't wait to welcome guests!

TESTIMONIALS

“ Absolutely beautiful stay. Highly recommend this unique floating house for a romantic getaway. ”

Stacey Timoti- 2026-04-21

3 / 3

“ Lovely tranquil spot for some much needed R&R. ”

Darryl McCorkindale- 2026-05-27

1 / 3

“ Absolutely perfect getaway for the weekend! ”

Torrie Saine- 2026-05-13

2 / 3

“ Absolutely beautiful stay. Highly recommend this unique floating house for a romantic getaway. ”

Stacey Timoti- 2026-04-21

3 / 3

“ Lovely tranquil spot for some much needed R&R. ”

Darryl McCorkindale- 2026-05-27

1 / 3

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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