History

In 1855, Sir Donald McLean purchased 60,000 acres of land from local Maori and established Maraekakaho Station. He instigated strong farm management practices steeped in respect for the land. The farm quickly became a leading supplier of beef, wool and lamb for the export market. 

 

In those days, all produce was transported via horse and wagon to Napier port.  Today, the historic woolshed still stands and is a tribute to the hard working pioneers who toiled to put Hawke’s Bay firmly on the world map.

 

In 1897, Archibald McLean acquired 3,300 acres and built Greenhill Homestead.  This building now functions as a luxury lodge and is one of New Zealand’s finest examples of High Victorian wooden architecture.

 

Over the years, more land was sectioned off with Peter and Barbara Grieve purchasing 1,443 acres in 1992.  The area is now known as Whakapirau Station.  The Grieve’s focus on sheep and beef continues.