For almost four years, your Luxury Under Canvas hosts Nick and Sasha have been providing Bed and Breakfast accommodation for guests from all over the world in their farmhouse called Soft Leaf Farmstay B&B.
Situated at Pukekawa (Mercer), 45 minutes South of Auckland, the English name of the farm is Soft Leaf. It comes from the original Māori name for the surrounding lands, Rua Ngawari, which means soft or pleasant resting place. We believe that the soft leaves were from the native Mahoe trees, many which are part of the natural bushland that forms part of the farm stretching down to the Waikato River, the largest river in the North Island.
Soft Leaf Farmstay B&B provides the best rural kiwi hospitality. It seems to be just the right distance from Auckland International Airport for visitors to make this their first night after arrival or their last night before departing home. Only 40 minutes from the airport, 49 kilometres to the Coromandel, within 1 and 1/2 hours drive of the Waitomo Caves,Hobbiton Movie Setand close to State Highway 22 for the West Coast beaches and scenic drive to the world famous surfing town of Raglan, visitors are well placed for an early driving start in whichever direction they choose.
Approximately 50% of our guests are from within New Zealand, many are involved in motor sports and find our location convenient to Hampton Downs Motor Sport Park (10 minutes away), Pukekohe racetrack (15 minutes away), as well as other popular destinations like Lake Taupo, Rotorua or Tauranga.
A common theme in guest reviews are the breathtaking views, the peace and quiet and the friendliness of our animals. Please be aware that we do have a farm cat named Raket that lives in the house. He does not frequent the guest rooms, he is usually in the office as you can see in the picture below. We also have a goat, a sheep and a donkey who are very friendly and curious about visitors and just love getting brushed, patted and fed.
The Rooms...
We have two three guest rooms that each have a dual aspect with far reaching views. Each room has a table and chairs, hotel quality linen, bedside cabinets and lamps, heaters and extra blankets should you need them. We have one double room that sleeps two people and a triple room that has a queen size bed and a single bed and an ensuited double room. If needed, we can also give you a travel cot if you have little children travelling with you.
We have an open plan kitchen, dining room and spacious lounge with wood fire. We also have another quiet, separate lounge with an open fire for reading and relaxing. Our guests are free to use all of the spaces. Some guests find this convenient if arriving late from the airport as we are 22 kilometres from the nearest large supermarket.