“When restaurateurs Chris and Jeanette Stockdale decided to branch out into the hotel side of hospitality and open Wallingford Homestead, clearly food would still be a focus. As a former chef, Chris oversees the “estate-to-plate” tasting and sharing menus at the hotel’s restaurant, which celebrate seasonal ingredients which have been sourced, or perhaps even foraged, from local producers and artisans to offer a true taste of the terroir. There’s a big spotlight on New Zealand wines too, and Wallingford hosts regular Winemaker Dinners to enjoy tastings with Chris’s cuisine. When you’re ready to retreat to your room the homestead offers the option of one of nine rooms and suites, decorated in a contemporary rustic style and with views, sometimes also verandahs, of the surrounding gardens and untouched countryside.”

— 2 MICHELIN Keys, Michelin Guide 2026

“Wallingford Homestead is a restored country villa where you can stay and dine in style, or eat by reservation. Wallingford Homestead offers a truly special dining experience, where award-winning chef Chris Stockdale creates generous feasts inspired by the produce grown on and around the estate. Seasonal produce and foraged fare sourced from local hunters, fishers, cheesemakers and more, is the focus (even the Angus beef comes from the homestead’s own grounds). From Tora crayfish with tapioca and pork crackling to Périgord black truffle and First Light venison, every dish leaves a lasting impression, the kind that has you planning your return before you’ve even left the table.Whether you’re planning a food-and-wine escape or simply looking for a distinctive taste of Hawke’s Bay, Wallingford Homestead delivers a refined celebration of New Zealand produce, wine and hospitality. This is what dreams are made of.”

— A Chef’s Hat, Cuisine Awards 2026

“If you get a chance to visit Wallingford, take it up immediately. Chris and Jeanette offer a world-class experience - the location, the service, the food (oh my god, the food!!) - it’s wonderful. I’ve never felt so pampered in my life than I did, sitting by the roaring fire, drinking an absolutely stunning negroni, and contemplating a walk with the truffle dogs the next day. It’s gorgeous. Just go there.”

— Margaret H., Google

“We had the most beautiful, relaxed and nurturing stay at Wallingford recently. Every detail of our visit was carefully taken care of. Our room was quiet, private and immaculately clean. The slow food experience was divine. Every course of every meal was a mouth watering experience. We can't wait to come back!”

— Charlotte H., Google

“This was a magical life changing experience for us. I have needed a break this year and Jeanette and Chris delivered on every level. Food was sensational, and we were attended to at our every whim but not invasively so. A very special place that I can't imagine you wouldn't enjoy completely.”

— Judy S., Google

“I have visited numerous times and everytime it has impressed me and provided some of the greatest fine dining I've experienced in NZ. The rooms, setting, service and surroundings are deserving of the luxury mark status.”

— Mac B., Google