Some comments from our satisfied customers.
Cottage
"A wonderful farmstay with everything we hoped for and more. Excellent hosts and an amazing cottage, very thoughtfully supplied. Also an easy day trip to Whakapapa ski field. Will definitely be recommending to our family and friends. Three nights was not long enough, we didn't want to leave!"
North Shore, Auckland
"“Thanks Tracey and Alan for a wonderful welcome. We arrived in the middle of a chilly spring squall in early September and yet a warm fire was waiting for us. Each room in this lovely, clean and well-appointed cottage has its own special atmosphere, full of collectables and interesting objects. The lounge had a number of comfortable chairs and a couch, each with soft rugs. This made it hard to get up and unpack, and then we had difficulty choosing which of the double rooms to use; each was so attractive. In the end, we picked the one decorated in blue with a great view over the valley towards the road below.
The kitchen contained everything anyone wishing to cook up a storm would desire, and little touches like fresh eggs in the fridge and a bunch of colourful daffodils made feel us really at home.
Last but not least, the ever- changing light over the farm below had us mesmerised by its multiples of different green, and we had fun watching the ‘fly byes’ of kereru (wood pigeon) and other birdlife. For those who want to hear Kokako up the road at the nearby reserve at dawn, do so. It’s an eerie sound that will never be forgotten. The time flew past, and we will be certainly back for a longer stay.”"
Piha, NZ
The kitchen contained everything anyone wishing to cook up a storm would desire, and little touches like fresh eggs in the fridge and a bunch of colourful daffodils made feel us really at home.
Last but not least, the ever- changing light over the farm below had us mesmerised by its multiples of different green, and we had fun watching the ‘fly byes’ of kereru (wood pigeon) and other birdlife. For those who want to hear Kokako up the road at the nearby reserve at dawn, do so. It’s an eerie sound that will never be forgotten. The time flew past, and we will be certainly back for a longer stay.”"
"Brilliant house for a family break in the midst of rolling hills, lowing cattle and neighing horses. The kids loved it and had an absolute ball. Plenty of heating (vital in winter) with all the beds having electric blankets and extra oil heaters in the rooms. The fire chucked out heat and soon turned the house into a cosy nook with fantastic views across the farm. The owners showed us around the farm for the day and we really appreciated the time they spent with us. We'd love to come back."
Melbourne, Australia
"Brilliant cottage, beautiful decor, spotlessly clean and very, very comfortable (love the fire). Alan, Tracey and their girls were wonderful and welcomed us into their family. We really appreciated all they did for us and with our boys. Hand feeding the ducks was the boys favourite "job", We look forward to visiting again"
Whangaparaoa
"Wonderful place, the cottage is perfectly in tune with its idyllic surroundings. Alan and Tracey were great hosts and the kids loved getting involved with day-to-day farm stuff."
Mt Eden, Auckland
"Thank you Aratoro Cottage for a wonderful weekend. The cottage was absolutely perfect for our needs and you had thought of everything. Worth every single penny :)"
Auckland
"Great hosts, a very homely cottage, access to the farm and being close to the bird sanctuary; what more could you ask for. The perfect place for anyone interested in listening for or seeing Kokako!"
Wellington
"Hi Alan & Tracey
Thanks for your hospitality. We have had a lovely stay and have really enjoyed all the happenings and animal antics on the farm. Beautiful views! Paul and I managed to see 3 Kokako yesterday (during the day) only a few metres away from the track and also hear their beautiful song when went into the bush early in the morning.
Once again thanks so much for the accommodation."
Wellington
Thanks for your hospitality. We have had a lovely stay and have really enjoyed all the happenings and animal antics on the farm. Beautiful views! Paul and I managed to see 3 Kokako yesterday (during the day) only a few metres away from the track and also hear their beautiful song when went into the bush early in the morning.
Once again thanks so much for the accommodation."
"The Currys
Thank you for making us so welcome, very thoughtful touches, beautiful home, in a stunning location! Happy New Year and thank you once again."
Christchurch & UK
Thank you for making us so welcome, very thoughtful touches, beautiful home, in a stunning location! Happy New Year and thank you once again."
"Fantastic place to stay, lovely period cottage with all the modern comforts and awesome views. A lovely welcoming family. We wish we could have stayed longer."
Wellington
"If you’re looking for the perfect spot to relax, unwind and escape the world … look no further. Alan and Tracey have gone out of their way to provide the ultimate home away from home. The house is finished to perfection providing comfort, charm and so much authentic character. It is well appointed with everything you could possibly need plus lots of little extras. The house is positioned on top of a hill with a large deck, perfect for sitting out with some friends enjoying a BBQ and a glass of wine or two taking in the spectacular views before moving inside to the comfortable living room for a game of cards in front of the fire and then finally succumbing to all the fresh country air for a perfect nights sleep in one of the oh so comfy beds. The booking process was effortless and simple and Tracey was quick to answer any questions we had and make things easy. We can’t wait to come back and with all the things to explore in the area hopefully for longer next time.
Thanks again – I knew it was gorgeous from the pictures on your website but in reality Aratoro cottage far surpassed any expectations"
Auckland
Thanks again – I knew it was gorgeous from the pictures on your website but in reality Aratoro cottage far surpassed any expectations"
"Alan and Tracey have a great place to stay here. Great attention to the smallest of details. Really friendly and went above and beyond to ensure that our stay was really tailored to our needs. This area is a beautiful part of NZ to explore and it was great to come back to somewhere that felt just like home at the end of the day. We loved it and will definitely come back again."
Wellington
"Excellent stay! Hosts, Tracey and Alan, made us feel very welcome and the cottage was gorgeous. The cottage has everything you need and its pictures don't do it justice. Its a beautiful setting and very relaxing. You have sheep/cattle/ducks in paddocks surrounding the beautiful and homely cottage. Tracey and Alan give you the option of becoming involved in a bit around the farm or you can do your own thing. Certainly recommended to anyone looking for a lovely farmstay. We hope to go back!"
Australia
"They say 'it's certainly not the Hilton' and they're right. It's much better. Very clean and comfortable, lots of quirky touches as well as little extras that make it feel special. It's well kitted out, has a great shower and a wood burner that heats the whole house. There are lovely views from the house and walks around the farm as well as being really close to the beautiful Mapara Scenic Reserve and a short drive from Pureora Forest Park. We'll be back!"
Auckland
"Being from an urban jungle that is Singapore, Aratoro Cottage was an idyllic refuge from the hustle and bustle of a major city. If we were impressed by the photos on the website, showing a vast expanse of undulating green terrain, the reality was even more breath-taking, as the approach to the cottage is from a higher elevation. A burning fireplace awaited us on arrival, and we were pleasantly greeted by a warm and cozy cottage. Tracey Curry has furnished the cottage in an old farm style; it is beautiful, spacious, clean, with detailed ornaments hanging on the walls, fresh flowers, even a pair of old binoculars, games to play and toys for the kids. We couldn’t have been more delighted with our choice! Alan and his two lovely young daughters came to greet us, and bundled all the kids in the trundle and brought us around his huge farm, showing us some sheep and cattle mustering, letting the kids feed the ducks and horses. We also had a chance to savour Tracey’s delicious traditional Kiwi Roast Lamb for dinner, delivered personally to the cottage. Our hosts made us feel totally at home and their warm and genuine hospitality is only rivalled by the gorgeous and stunning views from every room in the cottage. We bring back to Singapore with us beautiful memories and images of the time spent at Aratoro Cottage and cannot wait to recommend it to our friends and family."
Albert, Susan, Alex and Lauren Tiu, Singapore
"We were made to feel very welcome by Tracey and her family. The cottage was absolutely gorgeous, great facilities, lovely bathroom and kitchen, really beautiful old farm style touches which makes you realise, what a special effort they have put in to make this is special place to come and stay. Fully equipped with everything you need, log fire for extra comfort. Beautiful views of the farm & great walking. Fully fenced section. We are definitley going to stay here again and think it may be a regular for us. Tracey and Alan, thanks so much for a providing such a wonderful place to stay!"
Amanda, Mike & Murphy, Auckland
Sold Horses
"'ADDE & ARATORO KID'
Aratoro Kid sold as a 2 yr old
When I decided I had to have a horse again after a 15 yr break from riding, I was lucky enough to spot 'Kid' on trademe. I saved him to my watchlist, thinking he was a bit of a dream really, and with funds being very tight, kept hunting.
Also luckily for me, an experienced horseman I was riding with, offered to help me with my decision, and the use of his float! So I tagged along on a trip down country with a couple of young horses lined up to view. They were looked over and quickly rejected, much to my dismay!
As we stopped in Waitomo on our way home he asked me if there were any others I had seen down this way, suddenly I remembered 'Kid' I wasn't really sure where he was, but knew he was down this way somewhere! Very generously my friend said, "well, we're down here and we've got a float, so we might as well have a look". I frantically rang my sister, got her to check my watchlist, got Tracey and Alan's number, and called. Again, luckily for me, someone answered!
So off we headed into the hills, me feeling more and more guilty for dragging this very busy man along on this mission. We finally arrived, felt like an eternity to me! and saw a horse tied up in the yards, we approached, and as he climbed the rails to get a better look, he turned to me and said, with a grin on his face, "now this, is a nice horse."
I couldn't help but agree! While chatting with Tracey and looking him over, I patted kid, and he fell asleep! I was sold!
So our journey began, terrifying for me at times, but so rewarding. I am always so thankful for the start and love Tracey and Alan gave him, it's made it easy for me. I couldn't ask for a better companion, such a people horse, just loves to be around you, but he's no pushover! Tonnes of personality to keep things interesting. After 3 or so years of riding he has seldom put a foot wrong, and in stressful situations, he has surprised me with his calmness and maturity.
So thank you again Tracey! Thanks for your interest in Kid's progress and wellbeing, I will continue to keep in touch, and maybe one day you can come up and take him for a spin!"
Adde, Waihi
Aratoro Kid sold as a 2 yr old
When I decided I had to have a horse again after a 15 yr break from riding, I was lucky enough to spot 'Kid' on trademe. I saved him to my watchlist, thinking he was a bit of a dream really, and with funds being very tight, kept hunting.
Also luckily for me, an experienced horseman I was riding with, offered to help me with my decision, and the use of his float! So I tagged along on a trip down country with a couple of young horses lined up to view. They were looked over and quickly rejected, much to my dismay!
As we stopped in Waitomo on our way home he asked me if there were any others I had seen down this way, suddenly I remembered 'Kid' I wasn't really sure where he was, but knew he was down this way somewhere! Very generously my friend said, "well, we're down here and we've got a float, so we might as well have a look". I frantically rang my sister, got her to check my watchlist, got Tracey and Alan's number, and called. Again, luckily for me, someone answered!
So off we headed into the hills, me feeling more and more guilty for dragging this very busy man along on this mission. We finally arrived, felt like an eternity to me! and saw a horse tied up in the yards, we approached, and as he climbed the rails to get a better look, he turned to me and said, with a grin on his face, "now this, is a nice horse."
I couldn't help but agree! While chatting with Tracey and looking him over, I patted kid, and he fell asleep! I was sold!
So our journey began, terrifying for me at times, but so rewarding. I am always so thankful for the start and love Tracey and Alan gave him, it's made it easy for me. I couldn't ask for a better companion, such a people horse, just loves to be around you, but he's no pushover! Tonnes of personality to keep things interesting. After 3 or so years of riding he has seldom put a foot wrong, and in stressful situations, he has surprised me with his calmness and maturity.
So thank you again Tracey! Thanks for your interest in Kid's progress and wellbeing, I will continue to keep in touch, and maybe one day you can come up and take him for a spin!"
"'JACQUELINE & ARATORO MAJOR'
Aratoro Major sold as a Weanling
'Aratoro Major' sold at eight months old to the Harper Family, story as told by Jacqueline:
"The story of Major has only begun..."
In July our beloved Em had an unfortunate paddock accident and we had to have her put down which was devastating for the whole family. A while later, we met the wonderful Curry family who introduced us to Major. We all fell in love with him on sight. It was an omen as Alan informed us that Major’s birthday was the same date as mine. Major arrived a shy little woolly colt and he was scared of us as he didn’t really know who we were and the new surroundings were unfamiliar to him. He spent his first night with Shadow, our miniature pony who is always the first one to make friends with any newcomers. The next afternoon we introduced him to the other horses. To this very day his best friend is still Shadow. It was not long before Major was given the nick name “Major Trouble”, as in his first week he escaped by jumping a 1.2 metre wooden gate - wow I have a huge jumper already - and slowly walked down to the house. The next week he was jumping over the electric tape, but it was not long till he wizened up and realised he could go under the tape to get to the fresh grass with his best friend not far behind.
Major is really something. On hot days you can sit in the paddock with the herd and he will come and nibble your ear and then graze right by your side the whole time. He is also an extremely caring young colt. The week before Christmas, I fell off another horse that I was training and Major galloped from the other side of the paddock to me to see if I was ok, and followed me as I was carried back to the house. That is something amazing and truly touching. He is a part of our family for life and he knows it. He is there to put a smile on your face when you are down and plays (or chases) with our dog Dusty when he is bored and last but not least to Major who saw our three legged cat wandering in the paddock and thought it would be fun to chase her.
There is never a dull moment with Major, you’re sure to find him bounding through the paddock with tree branches all through his mane and tail.
We definitely got the perfect horse. Our Major is now known as Major Trouble. Thank you Alan and Tracey for breading a wonderful, caring horse."
Regards Jacqueline Harper and Family, Dairy Flats
Aratoro Major sold as a Weanling
'Aratoro Major' sold at eight months old to the Harper Family, story as told by Jacqueline:
"The story of Major has only begun..."
In July our beloved Em had an unfortunate paddock accident and we had to have her put down which was devastating for the whole family. A while later, we met the wonderful Curry family who introduced us to Major. We all fell in love with him on sight. It was an omen as Alan informed us that Major’s birthday was the same date as mine. Major arrived a shy little woolly colt and he was scared of us as he didn’t really know who we were and the new surroundings were unfamiliar to him. He spent his first night with Shadow, our miniature pony who is always the first one to make friends with any newcomers. The next afternoon we introduced him to the other horses. To this very day his best friend is still Shadow. It was not long before Major was given the nick name “Major Trouble”, as in his first week he escaped by jumping a 1.2 metre wooden gate - wow I have a huge jumper already - and slowly walked down to the house. The next week he was jumping over the electric tape, but it was not long till he wizened up and realised he could go under the tape to get to the fresh grass with his best friend not far behind.
Major is really something. On hot days you can sit in the paddock with the herd and he will come and nibble your ear and then graze right by your side the whole time. He is also an extremely caring young colt. The week before Christmas, I fell off another horse that I was training and Major galloped from the other side of the paddock to me to see if I was ok, and followed me as I was carried back to the house. That is something amazing and truly touching. He is a part of our family for life and he knows it. He is there to put a smile on your face when you are down and plays (or chases) with our dog Dusty when he is bored and last but not least to Major who saw our three legged cat wandering in the paddock and thought it would be fun to chase her.
There is never a dull moment with Major, you’re sure to find him bounding through the paddock with tree branches all through his mane and tail.
We definitely got the perfect horse. Our Major is now known as Major Trouble. Thank you Alan and Tracey for breading a wonderful, caring horse."
"'LOUISE & ARATORO LITTLE MISS SUNSHINE'
Aratoro Little Miss Sunshine sold as a weanling.
“We first met Alan and Tracey several years ago when Alan started bringing mares to the Clydesdale stallion we were standing, with an intention of breeding sport horses. From day one we noted that Alan and Tracey had an excellent eye for a good brood mare. Because of their selective breeding, we have found the Aratoro youngstock to be workable, well mannered and of the highest sport horse quality. We purchased their first sport horse foal on the ground – Aratoro Little Miss Sunshine (Melody), as a weanling. Melody is now three years old and going extremely kindly under saddle. She has placed at several inhand shows, has impeccable manners, conformation and presence. We have very high hopes for her in competition and see similar potential in a number of Aratoro Studs more recent youngstock.”"
Van der Sande Family, Pirongia Clydesdales
Aratoro Little Miss Sunshine sold as a weanling.
“We first met Alan and Tracey several years ago when Alan started bringing mares to the Clydesdale stallion we were standing, with an intention of breeding sport horses. From day one we noted that Alan and Tracey had an excellent eye for a good brood mare. Because of their selective breeding, we have found the Aratoro youngstock to be workable, well mannered and of the highest sport horse quality. We purchased their first sport horse foal on the ground – Aratoro Little Miss Sunshine (Melody), as a weanling. Melody is now three years old and going extremely kindly under saddle. She has placed at several inhand shows, has impeccable manners, conformation and presence. We have very high hopes for her in competition and see similar potential in a number of Aratoro Studs more recent youngstock.”"
Stallion Service
"'THE PALMER FAMILY & LOVELY LUCY'
We sent our TB mare to Alan Curry’s Murrayfields Lord Daniel. Alan and Tracey took the very best care of her and she came home, in foal, looking the picture of good health. Daniel is the most beautiful, young Clydesdale Stallion. He certainly is a gentle giant with the horses with a lovely nature and a kind eye. We keenly await the arrival of his offspring."
The Palmer Family, Palmerston North
We sent our TB mare to Alan Curry’s Murrayfields Lord Daniel. Alan and Tracey took the very best care of her and she came home, in foal, looking the picture of good health. Daniel is the most beautiful, young Clydesdale Stallion. He certainly is a gentle giant with the horses with a lovely nature and a kind eye. We keenly await the arrival of his offspring."
