About Mount Richmond Estate
Experience the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and nature at Mount Richmond Estate.
Unwind in our Peaceful Retreat
Welcome to Mount Richmond Estate, where Robert and his two friendly dogs, chocolate Labrador Koko and Golden Retriever Kayla, invite you to enjoy the warm hospitality of a family-run estate. Proudly owned and operated by Robert and his family for the past 16 years, our estate is nestled in the heart of Marlborough at the top of New Zealand’s South Island, conveniently located between Blenheim and Nelson with easy access to State Highway 6. We offer a peaceful retreat set within ten acres of spacious, beautifully landscaped grounds in the picturesque Rai Valley, featuring tennis and basketball courts, and surrounded by native and exotic trees.
Our estate is a haven for nature lovers, with a variety of native and introduced bird species, including fan tails, tuis, wood pigeons (kererū), quail, kingfishers, and the nocturnal morepork (ruru). At night, take a short walk on the adjoining forestry track to see the enchanting glow-worms in their natural habitat.
We offer a range of beautifully refurbished, self-contained units to suit both holidaymakers and long-term guests. Our fully furnished holiday cottages provide the perfect retreat for those looking to enjoy a peaceful escape in Marlborough, surrounded by the natural beauty of Rai Valley. Whether you're seeking a relaxing holiday rental near Nelson or Blenheim or an Airbnb-style stay, our modern cottages offer all the comforts and amenities needed for a restful and memorable experience.
We look forward to offering you a warm welcome.
Robert
Our History
After relocating from the UK in 2008, Robert and his family fell in love with the idyllic location of Mount Richmond Estate and took on the significant challenge of fully renovating the motel units and grounds. Their vision was to transform the property into a welcoming retreat that combined modern comforts with the serene beauty of Marlborough's landscape.
The site itself has a rich history, having originally served as a forestry camp. In the 19th century, the land was cleared, and a timber mill was established by Baigents, followed by the New Zealand government developing the site as a forestry training centre.
During the 1930s, an arboretum of exotic and native trees was planted, which still graces the estate today. The location also served as a regional firefighting hub, equipped with various facilities and a concrete bunker for explosives.
After the state forestry operations ended in the 1980s, the site changed hands a few times until we saw its potential and purchased it in 2008.
Alongside extensive refurbishments, we also opened Foresters Café in 2010, which quickly became a thriving and popular spot for both tourists and locals alike. However, following a serious car accident in 2019 and the challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, we made the difficult decision to close the café. We adapted by shifting our focus to providing a mix of permanent rental accommodations, an Airbnb cottage, and a motel unit, ensuring we continue to offer a peaceful retreat from city life.
Today, Mount Richmond Estate remains a tranquil and rejuvenating setting where guests can unwind and enjoy the natural beauty that first captivated us 16 years ago.
What We Offer
Holiday Accommodation
Our estate offers beautifully refurbished, self-contained motel units, perfect for those looking for relaxing holiday accommodation in Marlborough.
Nestled amidst the scenic landscapes of Rai Valley, our fully furnished cottages provide a cozy and modern retreat for guests seeking a serene escape near Nelson or Blenheim. With a focus on comfort and convenience, our holiday rentals are equipped with everything you need for a peaceful and memorable getaway, surrounded by the natural beauty of New Zealand's South Island.
Long Term Accommodation
For those seeking a longer-term living solution in Marlborough, whether local residents or individuals relocating for work, we offer a selection of our charming cottages for long-term rentals. Enjoy the tranquility of a nature-focused environment without the commitment of property ownership. With convenient access to Nelson, Blenheim, and local employment opportunities, our long-term accommodation options are perfect for those who wish to settle in the serene surroundings of Rai Valley while remaining close to the region's vibrant hubs.
Meeting Room Hire
Our versatile meeting room is ideal for hosting business meetings, workshops, or group gatherings.
Recently refurbished to create a bright and comfortable space, the meeting room is fully equipped with modern amenities to ensure a productive and seamless event.
Whether you're planning a board meeting or a training session, our meeting room provides a quiet, focused atmosphere in the peaceful surroundings of Mount Richmond Estate.
Storage
Mount Richmond Estate also offers secure indoor storage for boats, vehicles, camper vans, and household items. Located conveniently near popular local attractions, our storage facilities provide a hassle-free solution for those visiting the Marlborough region regularly.
Save time, reduce wear and tear, and cut down on fuel costs by storing your belongings with us. We even offer a wash-down area to clean your boat after a day on the water.
