A House with History. A Place of Restoration.
OUR STORY
Welcome - Hāere Mai
For more than a century, this remarkable coastal property has welcomed those seeking rest, connection and renewal. Today, we are honoured to continue that story.
The Longhouse isn't a place for hurried itineraries or grand hotel experiences. It's for those who appreciate thoughtful design, meaningful connection and the quiet luxury of having space to simply be together.
A House with History
The story of The Longhouse began in the years following the First World War, when the property was commissioned as ANZAC House—a place of rest and recuperation for soldiers returning home with the unseen wounds of war.
Set above the Otago coastline, it was believed that fresh sea air, expansive ocean views, peaceful surroundings and the companionship of others could support recovery. Long before "wellbeing" became part of our everyday vocabulary, this was a place where nature itself was recognised as an important part of restoration.
Over the decades, the property has evolved, but its original purpose continues to resonate. Today, The Longhouse once again offers guests the opportunity to leave behind the pace of everyday life and experience the restorative qualities of this extraordinary coastal setting.
Here, time slows naturally. Wander down to the beach, breathe in the salt air, watch the changing tides or simply sit and take in the endless ocean views. Discover the abundant wildlife, explore the coastal walking tracks, or spend time getting to know the character and charm of our much-loved village of Karitāne.
Discover Karitāne
Nestled on the coast just 30 minutes north of Dunedin, Karitāne is one of Coastal Otago's hidden gems. Rich in Māori and early European history, the village sits between a sheltered estuary, dramatic coastline and expansive sandy beaches, surrounded by rolling farmland and native bush.
It is a place where wildlife flourishes, where seasons shape the landscape, and where life still moves at a gentler pace. For many of our guests, Karitāne becomes as memorable as The Longhouse itself.
Our Ethos
As custodians of The Longhouse, we see our role as one of care—for the house, the land and the people who spend time here. Inspired by the Māori principle of kaitiakitanga, we are committed to honouring the property's history while thoughtfully preparing it for generations to come.
Lovingly restored, the house pairs its historic character with contemporary comfort, natural materials and a relaxed coastal aesthetic inspired by its surroundings. Every decision has been guided by a desire to preserve a genuine sense of place rather than create something that could exist anywhere.
We like to think of The Longhouse as a little piece of coastal barefoot luxury—authentic, understated and deeply connected to its environment. A place where comfort feels effortless and guests are encouraged to slow down, reconnect and simply be.
We want you to celebrate your stay with us with a lightness of spirit - some would call it gratitude - for this pristine coastline.
our hope is that every guest leaves feeling a little more rested, a little more connected, and inspired by the beauty of this remarkable place.. 
Welcoming You
Today, The Longhouse welcomes guests for exclusive-use accommodation, intimate weddings, restorative retreats and private gatherings for families, creatives and corporate teams.
Whether you're celebrating a milestone, seeking time to recharge, or simply looking for a beautiful place to spend time with the people who matter most, we hope you'll feel genuinely at home here.
Every guest becomes part of the continuing story of The Longhouse.
