An autumn afternoon last week saw Mouli & I setting off for a romantic night away at Spray Point Station, courtesy of hosts Jenny and Roland Mapp. Spray Point Station is an historic high country merino station in Marlborough, New Zealand, set on the banks of the River Spray in the Waihopai Valley.

It was torrential rain in Picton, but driving through to Blenheim, the skies cleared and as we headed off into the vineyards the sun came out and a glorious afternoon unfolded. Heading up the Waihopai Valley Road at Grove Mill Winery, passing the strange Spy balls (huge golf ball like structures) set in amidst beautiful vineyards, the colours beginning to change, we settled into our adventure. It was brilliant to skip away mid afternoon during the week! (Many thanks to Nicky who looked after Tarn, leaving us free to escape.)

Having been here ten years now, it’s odd that we still haven’t been into the High Country, associating Marlborough more with the Sounds and pristine bush and vineyards than mountain land, so it was a wonderful occasion to enjoy new vistas. A rogue apple tree at the roadside provided us with good snacking opportunities  (scrumping a bag for later), and hopes of stratifying the seeds for seedling apple trees, as the small russet like golden apples were crisp and tasty.

Following the road, watching Australian harriers glide, passing Churton vineyard (so that’s where it is!!) we soon found ourselves stopping to take photographs and enjoy the Waihopai  River, gather some pine cones for future kindling, and viewing the Hydro Power Station, which dates from the 1920s, the most advanced in New Zealand at the time.

As the road gave way to unsealed gravel we knew we were near. Welcomed by Dan and Sarah at Spray Point Station as Jenny and Roland were gathering sheep from the hill for crutching, we made ourselves at home, and wandered down to Cobb Cottage, where we were to stay for the night.

First of all, it has to be said, it is one of the most beautiful buildings you are likely to see set, as it is in mountains by a glorious fast flowing crystal river. We took a wee wander about and found the shower overlooking the Spray River, and the baths (next time we will indulge in a starlit bubble bath!) before exploring inside. Every thought had been given to our comfort, the fire set and ready and everything welcoming. It’s the details that make Cobb Cottage even more delightful, the lanterns illuminating the rooms with gentle electric light whilst giving the illusion of times past, the beautiful copper plumbing  and sink setting in the bathroom, the towel rails made from what was once a swingle-tree from a horse harness and many other things, which I will leave you to explore yourself when you arrive! Photo albums to show the conversion/restoration are set out for your interest. It’s interesting to read the website before arriving eg showing examples of the graffiti to give you further history of Cobb Cottage. We relaxed on the deck, reading, listening to the birds, the river and the sheep, simply enjoying the peace. Dining simply with a glass of wine overlooking the hills and river is just beautiful, a treat. Jenny, with children Ben and Sarah came to visit, taking the time to welcome us inspite of being run off her feet with innumerable lists of tasks.

Built in the 1900s when sheep were driven through to Molesworth and Hanmer, Cobb Cottage is a blend of history and charm. Today the station’s activities include environmental conservation, carbon farming, horse breeding, cattle raising, walking tracks, tourism and of course Jenny and Roland are still busy with sheep farming. There are lots of options for activities whilst staying at Spray Point Station: hike on the Waihopai Walking Track, swim in the crystal clear Spray and Waihopai rivers, explore  conservation wilderness, help with the predator control programme, go bird watching, hunting, fishing, or horse riding,  just ask Jenny and Roland for further information. We just mooched, read and relaxed, enjoying the sunset and the moonlight, breakfasting on the deck in the morning sunshine, but we will definitely return to walk the hills, the lure is set.

So finally thank you so much to Jenny and Roland for such a wonderful time away and please give them a ring on 03 572 4222 to book either Cobb Cottage or Boundary Creek Cabin for an awesome Marlborough experience. Whether you live locally and just need a break or you are from further afield, take the time to go Off  The Mapp and enjoy your holiday in Marlborough!