FAQs
Booking & Packages
What's included in the walking packages?
Your package includes accommodation, home-cooked breakfast and dinner, packed lunches for trails, and private marked trail access.
Can I book individually, or is there a minimum group size?
We require groups of 6–10 guests for our walking packages. Unfortunately, individual bookings cannot be accommodated.
Can I extend or shorten my stay?
Our packages have fixed durations and group sizes to maintain a premium and sustainable experience, so stays are fixed at three nights.
Meals & Dietary Requirements
What meals are provided?
We offer hearty home-cooked breakfasts, trail lunches, and dinners, featuring produce often grown onsite. Guests should bring their own snacks for additional energy.
Do you cater to special dietary needs?
Yes, please inform us in advance about dietary requirements (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, allergies), and we'll do our best to accommodate.
Trails & Activities
How difficult are the walks?
Our trails are rated moderate, with clear markers, good paths, and some steep climbs. Walkers should be reasonably fit and comfortable with moderate elevation.
How long are the trails?
- Hidden Tarn: 13–18 km, 5–7 hours
- Falls Ridge Trail: 10 km, 3–4 hours
- Ancient Creekside: 4 km, about 2 hours
Are the trails guided?
The trails are clearly marked for self-guided walks, allowing you to enjoy them at your own pace.
Do you provide any hiking gear?
Guests must bring their own suitable footwear, waterproof clothing, and personal hiking gear. A detailed gear checklist is provided upon booking.
Accommodations
What type of accommodations are available?
Walking guests stay in comfortable, heated chalets or a cottage.
Are there private bathrooms and showers?
Yes, all accommodations have private bathrooms with flush toilets and hot-water showers.
Do you provide linens and towels?
Yes, all bedding, towels, and basic amenities are provided.
Weather & Safety
What if the weather conditions change?
Walks typically proceed in most weather conditions. If severe weather occurs, your itinerary may be adjusted for safety.
How should I prepare for variable weather?
We recommend layered clothing, waterproof jackets, sturdy boots, hats, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
Are the trails safe?
Our trails are carefully maintained and clearly marked. Guests are advised to remain on designated paths and follow provided guidelines.
Communication & Connectivity
Is there mobile phone reception or Wi-Fi?
Reception is very limited - embrace the opportunity to disconnect. Emergency communication options are available onsite.
What happens in an emergency?
Wairata Station staff are trained to manage emergencies. Emergency communication options and safety protocols are in place.
Location & Access
Where is Wairata Station located?
We are located in the scenic Waioeka Gorge, between Opotiki and Gisborne.
Is transportation provided?
Guests need to arrange transport to Wairata Station. Once onsite, all necessary transportation for activities is included in your package.
Where are the nearest airports?
Whakatāne Airport – 1.5 hours drive west (96km), with limited flights from Auckland.
Gisborne Airport – 1 hour 15 minutes drive east, (100km) with regular flights from Auckland and Wellington.
Payment & Cancellations
How can I pay for my booking?
We accept credit/debit cards through our secure online booking system for your deposit. Final payments can be made either by bank transfer or credit/debit card.
We ask that a single person manages the payments for group bookings.
What is your refund / cancellation policy?
Cancellations made more than 60 days in advance will receive a full refund. Within 60 days, bookings are non-refundable but may be transferred to alternative dates, subject to availability.