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The Horse and Stow

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The Horse and Stow

Āpiti, Manawatū-Whanganui


The Horse and Stow is located just under 3 hours from Wellington and 40 minutes from Feilding in the Manawatū District.

Wake to panoramic views of native bush stretching across rugged valleys, with the Ruahine Range rising in the distance. This elevated cabin sits on a quiet plateau, surrounded by rimu, kahikatea, and kowhai, with dramatic cliffs completing the scene. The nearby river provides a soothing soundtrack, while native tui bring the landscape to life.

Everything you need is thoughtfully arranged in one beautifully, architecturally******designed space. The front deck offers a Weber barbecue, comfortable seating, beanbags on the lawn, a brazier just down the steps, as well as a freestanding outdoor bath. Inside is a cosy living area warmed by a woodburner. Think striking beams and sheepskin rugs, the space blends perfectly rustic elements with luxury. There is a kitchen, bedroom and ensuite through the sliding barn door—crafted from a single macrocarpa slab.

A five-minute walk takes you to the clear river, perfect for a refreshing swim or quiet reflection in complete seclusion. The night skies are exceptional for stargazing, and the morning light filling this natural basin is utterly breathtaking.

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Eating and drinking near Escape

EATING AND DRINKING

At The Horse and Stow, you have the option of self-catering or you can treat yourselves to a delicious meal deal package which you can order during the booking process to save you the hassle of packing and cooking food.

The cabin has a small kitchenette, a Weber and a singular gas cooker is provided if you prefer to self-cater. You'll find all the cutlery, crockery, pots and pans that you'll need.

If you fancy a meal out, the Apiti Tavern & Eatery is a 10 minute drive and open from Thursday to Sunday. It offers a tasty pub menu and great country hospitality.

The nearest store for stocking up on food and supplies is in Feilding, a 40-minute drive away.

Things to do near Escape

THINGS TO DO

The Horse and Stow offers a quiet refuge from the everyday—a place to breathe deeply, slow down, and immerse yourself in the natural world.

Toast marshmallows over the outdoor fire, play a board game, swim in the crystal clear river, walk around the breathtaking property, or have a well-deserved soak in the outdoor tub.

If you are looking to get out and about, take a 30-minute drive to the Limestone Creek Reserve Glow Worm Caves or Ruahine Forest Park for a selection of epic walks.

Makoura Lodge is nearby, where you can book adventure activities. Partake in an exhilarating 4x4 self-drive or hill country safari and if you fancy a bit of competition, why not try clay bird shooting, archery and axe throwing (more info can be found for all activities under the Rates & Extras button).

Your hosts at Escape

YOUR HOSTS

Welcome to The Horse and Stow, where Luke, Kimberley, and their growing family are your hosts.

In 2024, they purchased this stunning piece of land neighbouring their family property, where their children represent the 7th generation to grow up on this land.

Luke and Kimberley are kaitiaki of Makoura Lodge. Luke, a former builder, crafted the cabin from the very first nail to the finishing touches, incorporating beautiful features like bridge sleeper details and polished concrete floors. He also takes guests on activities and 4x4 adventures, while Kimberley manages the business side of the Lodge.

What they love most about this spot is its sense of space and freedom, with the Ruahine Ranges in the distance, native bush stretching endlessly, and the soothing sound of the river just minutes away. They're excited to share this special place with guests.

TESTIMONIALS

“ Our stay at The Horse and Stow was incredibly relaxing, in such a beautifully thought-out space. Every little detail had been considered, right down to the toys and blanket provided for our little bub to play with during our stay. The outdoor bath was an absolute treat, along with the fire pit, extendable forks, and marshmallows. The hosts, Kimberley and Luke, were amazing and spoiled us with the most divine food throughout our stay. We loved the history and thought behind so many of the cabin’s unique details. The space felt classy yet still homely and rustic, striking the perfect balance. It was so peaceful and quiet, easily the most relaxing time we’ve had in years. We will definitely be back. ”

Danielle Ware- 2025-12-17

13 / 13

“ Pleasant cabin with beautiful surroundings. ”

Susan Stewart- 2026-05-20

1 / 13

“ This was a gift for my daughter and son-in-law and they absolutely loved their stay! Having four girls, they are always busy. Being off grid really allowed them to relax and connect. Loved the whole experience. Highly recommend. ”

Robyn Johnstone- 2026-05-04

2 / 13

“ The cottage is set in an idyllic setting, perched above a bubbling river which can be heard from the cottage along with the other sounds of nature. The outdoor bath offers the best way to experience this! Well equipped with everything we needed, the cottage has been very well thought out and decorated. Loved both the indoor and outdoor fireplaces. The meal package was the perfect add on and was delicious. If we had more time, we would have loved to do some of the walks in the area, although we did pop down to the river. We came away feeling refreshed and rested. Thank you for sharing your piece of paradise. ”

Sue Moot- 2026-04-29

3 / 13

“ Words and photos can’t do this place justice, worth the trip and highly recommend! ”

Tracey McCartney- 2026-04-11

4 / 13

“ Fantastic stay, beautiful area and the cabin is just magical. Thank you so much. ”

Jessica Moynan- 2026-03-15

5 / 13

“ Peaceful, luxurious stay. ”

Kylie Harris- 2026-03-14

6 / 13

“ We had an amazing relaxing time! So nice to get out of the city and just chill. Loved having a soak in the tub with the amazing night sky. Riva, our dog, enjoyed the walks to the river and having a dip to cool off. ”

Anita Maisuria- 2026-03-03

7 / 13

“ We loved our stay, it is a great place to get away, recharge and reset amongst nature which was exactly what we needed. Loved the design and feel of the space, the outdoor bath was great! Would definitely stay here again. ”

Jessica Griebenauw- 2026-02-19

8 / 13

“ The most incredible escape, everything we needed in one place. The host were amazing and checked in on us during the storm and made sure trees were cleared for us to depart in a timely manner. 1000% recommend. ”

Gemma O'Brien- 2026-02-17

9 / 13

“ The Horse and Stow is a secluded and most peaceful place, with all you need for a chilled holiday. ”

Sarah Topp- 2026-02-17

10 / 13

“ This stay was so perfect. Highly recommend. ”

Bridget Liddell- 2026-02-02

11 / 13

“ Everything about being there was absolutely breathtaking. Definitely a break that my partner and I needed. ”

Chloe Karaitiana- 2026-01-17

12 / 13

“ Our stay at The Horse and Stow was incredibly relaxing, in such a beautifully thought-out space. Every little detail had been considered, right down to the toys and blanket provided for our little bub to play with during our stay. The outdoor bath was an absolute treat, along with the fire pit, extendable forks, and marshmallows. The hosts, Kimberley and Luke, were amazing and spoiled us with the most divine food throughout our stay. We loved the history and thought behind so many of the cabin’s unique details. The space felt classy yet still homely and rustic, striking the perfect balance. It was so peaceful and quiet, easily the most relaxing time we’ve had in years. We will definitely be back. ”

Danielle Ware- 2025-12-17

13 / 13

“ Pleasant cabin with beautiful surroundings. ”

Susan Stewart- 2026-05-20

1 / 13

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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