Predator trapping
Traplines across the property keep rats, stoats, possums and hedgehogs out of the bush.
Follow our trapping on Trap.NZKaitiakitanga
Guardians of the forest
Looking after the bush that looks after us.
What it means
Kaitiakitanga
Kaitiakitanga is often described as guardianship. Tiaki means to guard, and also to preserve, nurture, protect and watch over. A kaitiaki is a guardian, keeper and protector.
Grounded in Māori world views, kaitiakitanga is about the conservation, replenishment and sustainability of the environment. It is about safeguarding the future.
Our story
The forest comes first
“We take on this role with honour. The forest brings us peace, calmness, stillness and quiet, a relief that can be hard to come by from a sometimes hectic world.”
Karu ō te Kiwi is home to Ivan and Canada Moynan and their family. It is their greatest pleasure to teach their children how to nurture the forest that, in turn, nurtures them.
Since buying the property they have set an array of traps that has removed rats, stoats, possums and hedgehogs from the bush. Tūī and pīwakawaka are never far away.
Light on the land
How we look after it
Onetahua Restoration
Our property may become part of Onetahua Restoration, the Predator Free 2050 programme bringing native birds back to Farewell Spit and north-west Golden Bay. It is a partnership between HealthPost Nature Trust, Tasman Environmental Trust and Manawhenua ki Mohua.
Solar power and storage
A full solar energy and battery system makes the house completely self-sustaining, so no more power cuts for guests.
Rain water, treated on site
We harvest our own rain water and dispose of 100% of wastewater and stormwater on the property. Compost and recycling bins are provided.
Gentle cleaning
Environmentally friendly cleaners that are safe for you and the land: Dazz tablets dissolved in glass bottles and washable Good Change Store bamboo cloths.
NZ-made toiletries
Plant-based, sustainably sourced botanical toiletries from RealWorld NZ, refillable and returnable. Luxury for you and the environment.
Recognition
Recognised for doing it properly
- Qualmark Silver, with Light Footprint, Safe and Sound and Warm Welcome commitments
- Bookabach Bach of the Year 2025, one of ten standout baches named across New Zealand
- We share the Tiaki Promise with our guests: care for New Zealand