Blake House is a well-appointed private villa that sits high on a promontory overlooking the Taharua River. It offers stunning views, luxurious comfort, and a perfect secluded space to disconnect from the outside world.
Become a part of something bigger.
The central living area includes two expansive lounges with soaring cathedral ceilings and huge open fireplaces, a well-equipped kitchen, and dining space, plus a cozy library and den.
Four spacious master bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms and an additional two bunkrooms make it perfect for groups of 4 to 16 guests.
Blake House Villa offers guests a spacious, exclusive-use residence with the option of full-service accommodation, where every detail is taken care of. A private chef prepares meals tailored to your preferences, supported by a dedicated service team and daily housekeeping, so your stay is entirely seamless from arrival to departure.
Set within Poronui’s 16,000-acre secluded estate, Blake House is a popular choice for gatherings of friends and family, boutique weddings, and special events such as corporate meetings and leadership retreats. Whether hosting an intimate celebration or a private business retreat, guests enjoy the privacy of the entire villa, complemented by personalised service and thoughtful attention to every occasion.
In the heart of New Zealand’s North Island, Blake House pairs a secluded private playground with quietly exceptional luxury.
This exclusive-use villa sits on an elevated plateau overlooking the Taharua River, offering a tranquil retreat for family and friends to gather, unwind and explore.
So what does a day at Blake House actually look like? From slow mornings on the deck to afternoons spent fishing, riding or simply soaking in the surrounding wilderness, here is what to expect from a stay.
Our exclusive playground is at your doorstep, making it a fantastic destination for outdoor activities.
Set across 16,000 acres of rolling hill country and native bush, Poronui invites guests to explore at their own pace.
From guided hikes through untouched backcountry to mountain biking along farm tracks and river trails, each experience reveals a different perspective of the land. Horse trekking, clay bird shooting, archery and relaxed pursuits around the lodge offer moments of both adventure and stillness, all set against a landscape that feels vast, remote and quietly unforgettable.
Nestled in the secluded Taharua Valley on New Zealand’s spectacular North Island, Blake House is located in the Central Plateau region between Taupo and Napier.
This venue serves as an ideal midpoint for nationwide teams spread across the country. It is perfect for corporate incentive trips and secluded team-building retreats, making it a convenient choice for organizations.
Arrive by car, plane or helicopter or ask about our pick up transfer options from Taupo, Napier or Rotorua airports.
At Blake House, dining is entirely your own.
A private chef prepares every meal on-property, shaped around your tastes, your pace, and your party. From relaxed breakfasts to considered evening menus, each dish reflects the produce and spirit of the surrounding wilderness. Sixteen thousand acres. One private villa. Exclusively yours.
Celebrate your special day in a stunning location surrounded by some of the country’s most beautiful wilderness. Our boutique venue offers a variety of unique spaces that perfectly set the stage for unforgettable memories.
Blake House sits on a promontory with sweeping views of the landscape. You can choose to host your ceremony and reception inside this versatile space or opt for a marquee on the lawn for an al fresco experience. With plenty of gorgeous spots for photography both around the house and further afield, every moment is set against a naturally breath-taking backdrop.
“We had a fantastic weekend staying at Blake House, Poronui, and being part of the group who met and dined with Al Brown. Saturday nights dinner was a degustation course prepared and cooked by Al and Hayden. Loved every dish, especially ingredients I haven’t tasted before. Paua soup, and venison cheeks! Delish!”
– NormaStitts
“Stayed at the lodge for a weekend for a family wedding at Blake House. Pretty much had both places to ourselves: incredible venue for a wedding, gorgeous locality; amazing staff; delicious food. Faultless.”
– HeidiNewZealand
“I have stayed at Poronui and the Blake House a number of times, and all stays without exception have been fantastic. The station is over 16000 acres so lots to do and see. I have visited on business (as well as with family) you are well catered for, and looked after by Eve and her team.
Unique experiences are something that the Poronui team exceed expectations on, my favorite would have to be private chef at the Blake House or dinner in the underground wine cellar.
Poronui is pretty magical and if you are wanting once in a lifetime kind of experience - highly recommend.”
– travel7792
“We had the most relaxing family holiday ever. We stayed in the Blake house away from the main lodge and we can walk down to the river. My husband and my son went hunting and my children went horse back riding as well as had cooking lessons. We also had Maori experience with Tom who taught us how to book in the forest. It was an excellent time.
Stephen and Francoise came to cook for us for breakfast and dinner when we had picnics for lunch. It was so restful as well. The house was really comfortable. It is a must for those that love the outdoors but also love 5 star comfort.”
– chen611
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