Chance to indulge in rural life at new lodge

A retired Carterton couple have completed their "grand designs" project and want others to share in it.

On Wednesday, Bill and Coral Aitchison opened Hoeke Lodge, a luxury three-bedroom accommodation in the foothills west of Carterton, designed for those who like to be "hosted" in a rural setting.

Carterton Mayor Ron Mark, who is practically a neighbour, cut the ribbon.

The Qualmark rated five-star boutique accommodation on four hectares is designed as if guests really were guests in someone's home, including use of an expansive lounge and being served home-cooked meals.

Mr Aitchison said it was a real "grand designs" project, meaning it took about twice as long to finish as expected.

The pair got going in February last year, after purchasing the land from a local dairy farmer.

"It's a one-off subdivision, nice and quiet."

The Aitchisons previously ran a five-star bed-and-breakfast in Mt Victoria, Wellington, and have treated this as their retirement project.

A project manager by profession, Mr Aitchison supervised the construction.

He said stays were offered only on a two-night or more basis.

"We offer a hosting experience, not an accommodation experience.

"We suggest people arrive early afternoon, early evening, settle in, get drinks and nibbles before they do anything else.

"We do the meals, we give people a pleasant, relaxing experience." Depending on their guests' plans, the couple can organise activities from wine trips, town visits or full-on tramps into the Tararuas.

Mr Mark said he lived "just over the fence" from the Aitchisons.

"They have certainly raised the tone of the neighbourhood."

He thanked them for having "such confidence in Carterton" that they built their lodge here.

"You've clearly got class, talent, business acumen and skill. We are just over the moon, this is only good for Carterton as a whole."