What I love about New Zealand is that in a matter of minutes you can leave city life behind to be immersed in rural splendour. 25 minutes from Nelson airport is Wakefield's luxurious, modern bed and breakfast at Snowball Manor. As I approached the new home in earthen tones I admired a magnificent native Totara tree and opposite, the vegetable garden watched over by Mavis scarecrow. Carol greeted us upon arrival with a warm welcome to their exquisitely furnished home. Our sumptuously appointed rooms were bathed in afternoon sun, French doors opening out to our private patio and front row seating to an awesome view of the 16 acre working farm which backs onto native reserve. A highly accomplished chef, Carol's gourmet breakfasts and, by arrangement, dinners incorporated the farm's own organic produce. We were invited to relax in the main living areas and to mingle with our excellent hosts Carol and Raymond, getting to know them and the community they are passionate about. Wineries, golf, galleries, shopping, swimming holes and bush walks, they will point you in the right direction as they are locals, born and bred here. With three rooms and a projection set up, Snowball Manor is an ideal location for holding a business meeting or incentive retreats away from the hustle and bustle. For us, it was the ideal romantic get-away!
