Set among the lush pastoral plains of the Waikato, Glengariff has an impressive presence at the end of a long driveway. The two-storeyed building's most distinctive feature is a bell tower which is said to have been a watchtower during the land wars and later was used to call farm hands to lunch. The bell is no longer there but the tower affords good views of the countryside and is a quiet place for guests to get away from the household for a quiet read. Built in 1877, the house is one of the earliest pioneer homesteads in the Waikato. Of course there have been alterations over the years. The latest is a large air-conditioned conservatory where small conferences and weddings are sometimes held. Above this is the honeymoon suite and the original kauri staircase leads up to the other suite and bedroom. The suites open onto the balcony, which extends the length of the house with views over the grand sweep of lawn and garden. I enjoyed joining in with the household in front of the lounge fire, in the dining room, and in the conservatory. The house has a comfortable, lived-in feel that encourages easy communication. Glengariff is well situated to visit the Waitomo Caves or Rotorua.
