The Old Te Aroha (te aroha means 'Love') Courthouse was built in 1883, and, as you can imagine, is loaded with history. In 2021, The Old Te Aroha Courthouse was bought by Kathy Dixon and in 2022, Kathy, after pouring her heart and soul into the building, lovingly transformed it into a 3 bedroom, 1.5 bathroom boutique accommodation facility. When you enjoy The Old Te Aroha Courthouse, for all you history lovers, you'll get to experience some of history. You'll see the original safe with its thick door and handle in the kitchen, the solid kauri walls and floorboards throughout, and you'll get why The Old Te Aroha Courthouse is part of the heritage walk map. Speaking of walks, if you love hiking and climbing, nature and an abundance of birdsong, Mt Te Aroha is the place to be, and it's practically right at your doorstep at The Old Te Aroha Courthouse. And Mt Te Aroha isn't the only walk. There are sooo many fabulous hikes a stone's-throw away, as well as more expansive walks both in and around Mt Te Aroha. Enjoy the spectacular Waihi coastal walk only 40 minutes away, as well as drink in the breathtaking Te Waihou Walkway (Blue Springs) - a must-do if you're in the area and a true lover of nature. It will not disappoint. The Old Te Aroha Courthouse is a place for rest and play: belt out a tune or three on the piano, enjoy figuring out the puzzles, play a game of some Kiwi classics, rack it up and enjoy a game of pool or sit back and relax with hiking and house and garden magazines. And don't forget the natural hotpools - a stone's throw away from your front door. The private pool of Shed2 in the Domain has had a makeover with a nod to the history to the pools. Be sure to pop in and book your time slot as much in advance as you can. Also within walking distance from The Old Te Aroha Courthouse in the heart of Te Aroha are bars, cafes, restaurants and supermarkets, along with some interesting stores and galleries.

Hi, I'm Kathy! I'm a mum and a nana (literally), but there is nothing nana about me! Besides being a mum to two boys, I've spent a good part of my life doing up villas and house staging. I've also owned shops (Great Barrier Island) so I love people, creativity and keeping busy. It helps keep me young! After I retired, I was looking for a place within an hour and a half from Auckland CBD. I wanted a place close to nature, forests and waterfalls. I bought a run-down villa in Te Aroha. When I told my kids where I was moving, they didn't even know where Te Aroha was. Here I was in my very late 60's renovating my villa to be my home and also to be a guest house for people looking for accomodation. In 2021, The Old Te Aroha Courthouse came up for tender. I had to have it. My villa, now lovingly restored, was done. I wanted to sink my teeth into something anyone could enjoy. So started the work. I was finally able to open The Old Te Aroha Courthouse to the public in 2022. I'm a creative person, I love people and hosting people, and wanted to create an inviting and warm space where folks could have fun while they retreat, relax and reset. I have a cat called Nugget who keeps me company - he is a little nugget too, even if he does follow me around a little too much. I love the energy of Mt Te Aroha, even if my body doesn't allow like it once did to enjoy being in the thick of nature. I'm situated at the base of Mt Te Aroha so I can breathe in the powerful energy of the forest and the mountain. So I do hope you enjoy the history of The Old Te Aroha Courthouse, the spectacular view of Mt Te Aroha from the lounge and the nature that surrounds you. Sing out if you need anything.

There's a lot to enjoy about this little, old town, much within strolling distance. If you love a Kiwi feed - a Kiwi burger, fish tacos, toasted sandwiches (hello Pork Melt - pork belly, bacon & cheese) & homemade pies to die for, you can't go past family-owned BackYard Pies. If you're after a healthier fix, Villa9 Cafe is the place to go. Sit outside, you may even snag a peek of the waterfall up Mt Te Aroha. If you love Indian food, guests have had great experiences at Taj Indian Restaurant. Check out our old hotels for a pint, often live music, & even take a punt at the pokies (slot machines). If you love art & culture, see the Whittaker Gallery in the main street loaded with an eclectic mix of goodies to suit all budgets, & be sure to check out our antique places. Flash Jordan has beautiful photograph light boxes (available online). If you love a poke around a shop that has all sorts from goodies for foodies, kitchenware, bedding, housewares, gifts & hardware, you can't go past Williams Hardware, just around the corner. Piako Stationery is all things stationery, games, puzzles, gifts, creative stuff, books & mags. You can even get your printing done there! There's nothing like supporting small, local & family owned. If you love meat, then be sure to support the local award-winning butcher at Best Meats. I mentioned above about local hot pools. Te Aroha Baths are a little more pricey, while Swimzone is more economical & a community set up. At Swimzone, choose from three outdoor natural mineral spring pools, or book the historic Shed2 for a private. There are also fabulous outdoor natural mineral pools called Opal Springs (30 mins drive) & guests particularly enjoy Okoroire Springs (3 outdoor natural mineral pools). There are so many fabulous walks & mountain biking in & around the area, I couldn't even begin. Check out ALL TRAILS for more. And for more on more, the good people at Te Aroha Info Centre (open 7 days!) are NEXT-LEVEL helpful.