THE FLYING FOX in NewZealand, is a place where the history of early Maori, who were the original inhabitants of this river valley, and the European pioneers of the 19th century, combine in a legacy of physical and spiritual reminders of their presence .In the hotels you can stay in a lovingly hand-built cottage surrounded by century old walnut trees on a terrace which overlooks the river. Native forests and organic gardens and orchards frame the places, our two cottages are comfortably furnished with a collection of rescued furniture and family treasures. The cottages are overlooking the Whanganui River in the Whanganui National Park & surrounded by organic gardens and orchards and our own native forests, guests can just enjoy the peace, listen to the birds and the sounds of the river or enjoy a canoe journey on the historic river, which passes our door. Our secluded camping area surrounded by the sounds of the bush and the star filled night sky is an option for those who prefer to be closer to nature. The Cottages and Cart are fully equipped with kitchens etc for self-catering or we can stock your choice of accommodation for breakfasts. All linen and towels etc are provided, as is freshly ground locally roasted coffee, organic tea, sugar ,milk etc. Guests can stay in either of two self-contained cottages built of recycled and natural materials overlooking the river. Or camp under the night sky in our private campsite.

The Flying Fox is situated just south of Koriniti, 45 kilometres northwest of Whanganui City, along the scenic Whanganui River Road, which follows the river through to Pipiriki. The two cottages are set in a grove of century old walnut trees and the cart is in a private setting adjacent to our orchard and native bush. Both Cottages are fully furnished and equipped, each has its own facilities, a kitchen area with gas hobs and an oven , a fridge freezer, and a lounge area, with music , books , both fiction and non-fiction , and games provided. The Flying Fox is an organic certified property, with lush vegetable gardens and heritage fruit trees surrounded by our own native bush and the native forests of The Whanganui National Park. For those who prefer to be closer to nature and sleep under the clear night sky there is a small clearing in the bush where we have set up a private camping area with cooking and washing facilities. We are involved in efforts to preserve the heritage fruit and vegetable varieties brought to New Zealand by the early pioneers. Some of these trees remain in our historic valley and have been propagated to ensure their survival. We grow these in our garden our garden and produce a range of organic jams, pickles and preserves which, together with other locally produced items, and the range of chemical free and environmentally friendly cleaning products we use, are available for sale in ‘The Store’ at the rear of John’s wood workshop.