About us
New Beginnings at Te Rangitumau Homestead
The Journey of Dawn, Craig, and Gwynneth
Dawn and Craig, along with their high school-aged daughter Gwynneth, dog Bruno, and cat Chaplin, have recently moved to Te Rangitumau Homestead after retiring from their esteemed careers at the United Nations in Switzerland.
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Craig's Journey
Craig was born in the Wairarapa region of New Zealand and spent his early years on a farm in Gladstone before moving to another farm just east of Masterton. He attended school in Masterton until a memorable flight in a light aircraft with his uncle inspired him to change his career path. Craig applied to join the Royal Air Force (RAF) in the United Kingdom as a pilot. After dedicating 20 years to the RAF, Craig returned to New Zealand to work with the Central Flying School at RNZAF Base Ohakea. His journey with the United Nations began when he was deployed as a Uniformed Peacekeeper to East Timor 2001. In 2021, Craig resigned from the RNZAF to join the United Nations full-time, where he continued to serve until taking early retirement in 2021 to join his family in Switzerland.
Dawn's Story
Dawn was born in Atlanta, Georgia, and moved to Southern California at an early age. She met Craig in Sudan in 2005. Having previously worked as a reporter for the Wall Street Journal and as a freelance journalist in South Africa, Dawn joined the United Nations as a communications officer. Dawn and Craig married in 2010 and managed to serve together in various locations, including New York, Nairobi, Kenya, Somalia, Beirut, Lebanon, and finally Céligny near Geneva, Switzerland.
Gwynneth's Chapter
Their daughter Gwynneth, born in Nairobi in 2009, is now completing her high school education in Wellington. Her interests include musical theatre, playing her cello, horse-riding and caring for our animals. We now have a Scottish Deerhound to keep Bruno company. Unlike Craig, Gwynneth along with her mother is fluent in French and is pretty good at Spanish. Gwynneth also has 3 adult brothers from Craig's previous marriage: the eldest William lives in Auckland with his wife Sarah and their 2 children Sadie and Forbes, Alastair lives with his partner Katie in Wanganui and Edward the youngest is married to Maddie and live with their young son Townes just outside Philadelphia in the United States.
A Dream Realized
Inspired by their experiences in Kenya, Craig and Dawn had always dreamed of opening a lodge in New Zealand. Craig, a passionate cook, spent several holidays in Europe attending cooking schools, with his favorite being in San Sebastian in northern Spain.
Looking Forward
The family is now excited about this new adventure together in New Zealand. Together, they share a love for entertaining and are eager to embrace their new life at Te Rangitumau Homestead.
The History of Rangitumau Homestead and Te Rangi Lodge
A Chronicle of Development and Transformation
Origins and Initial Acquisition
The Rangitumau Homestead, from which Te Rangi Lodge is operated, has a rich history that dates back to its initial acquisition. In 1866, Patrick Scanlan and Thos Meredith purchased 1806 acres of land through a Crown Grant for a sum of £400. Despite its potential, the land lay undeveloped for over a decade.
Purchase and Development by James Stuckey
In 1877, the property underwent a significant transformation when Mr. James Stuckey purchased the land for £6000. Stuckey, the eldest son of a Somerset farmer, had come to New Zealand to recuperate from an accident by taking a sea voyage. Captivated by the country's beauty, he initially settled in Canterbury before deciding to develop the Rangitumau property.
To bring his vision to life, Stuckey recruited a team of skilled workers from England, including builders, brickmakers, layers, fencers, stockmen, gardeners, and cooks. This workforce converged on the property and commenced the arduous task of clearing and developing the land.
The Construction of the Homestead
Stuckey cleared approximately 30 to 40 acres to make way for the Homestead, which was constructed between 1877 and 1878. He meticulously selected heart timber felled on the property for the construction, ensuring the homestead's durability and aesthetic appeal.
In addition to the Homestead, Stuckey implemented an impressive, piped water supply system. Sourced from a spring located 1000 meters northeast of the homestead, this system continues to provide the homestead with a consistent supply of limestone spring water, which flows steadily all year round.
Subdivisions and Modern-Day Status
Over the years, the original 1806-acre property has undergone numerous subdivisions and sales. Despite these changes, the Homestead has retained much of its original form and now sits on just 10 acres, preserving its historical integrity.
Legacy and Current Use
Today, the Rangitumau Homestead stands as a testament to Stuckey's vision and dedication. The property not only serves as the base for Te Rangi Lodge but also reflects the rich history and transformation that has unfolded over the years. Visitors to the homestead can appreciate the enduring legacy of the initial settlers and the remarkable development journey led by James Stuckey.
Conclusion
The Rangitumau Homestead's story is one of persistence, vision, and transformation. From its initial Crown Grant purchase to its development by James Stuckey and subsequent subdivisions, the property has evolved while maintaining its historical significance. As Te Rangi Lodge continues to operate from this historic site, the legacy of Rangitumau Homestead lives on, offering a glimpse into the rich heritage and enduring charm of the region.
