The Story of Laurella Cottage
Restoring a piece of Marlborough's history
Built in the 1850s, Laurella Cottage has stood quietly through generations of change, becoming part of Marlborough's rich rural history. Like many early colonial cottages, it was built with simple craftsmanship and designed to provide comfort, shelter and a place to call home.
When we first discovered Laurella, we saw more than an old cottage. We saw an opportunity to preserve its character while creating a peaceful retreat where others could experience the charm of Marlborough and enjoy the slower pace of country life.
A labour of love
Restoring Laurella has been a journey. Every decision has been guided by a simple philosophy: preserve the character of the original cottage while thoughtfully introducing the comforts expected by today's travellers.
Much of the kitchen and bathroom joinery, together with many of the furniture pieces throughout the cottage, has been handcrafted by Dave on site. Every room has been carefully decorated and furnished by Sue, creating a home that feels welcoming, comfortable and true to its heritage.
The result isn't simply accommodation.
It's a home created with love, patience and countless hours of craftsmanship.
Created to be shared
From the beginning, our dream was to create more than somewhere to stay.
We wanted guests to experience the warmth of genuine Marlborough hospitality, enjoy complete privacy and leave feeling they had discovered somewhere truly special.
Whether it's fresh eggs collected from our own chickens, home baking waiting in the kitchen or sharing our favourite local winery or restaurant, it's the personal touches that often become the memories our guests take home.
Surrounded by gardens and vineyards
The gardens surrounding Laurella have grown alongside the cottage itself.
Throughout the seasons they provide peaceful places to sit, read, enjoy breakfast or simply listen to the birds. Beyond the garden gates lies one of New Zealand's most celebrated wine regions, where vineyards, cellar doors and country roads invite you to explore at your own pace.
Many guests tell us their favourite moments are the quiet ones—morning coffee in the garden, an afternoon with a book beneath the trees or returning from a day of wine tasting to watch the sun set over the surrounding countryside.
The Name
While pondering on all sorts of options it occurred to us that by putting together our two daughters names, Laura and Ella it made for a name which easily rolls off your tounge, 'Laurella Cottage' and so it became.