About The Furlong
The Furlong in Hāwera is a unique country-style motel and events venue on the outskirts of town. Founded as the “Furlong Motor Inn” by equestrian legend Brian Hayter (thefurlong.co.nz ), it was designed as more than just a roadside stop. Today the property offers about 23–25 chalet-style units (ground-floor studio rooms) set amid lawn and gardens (thefurlong.co.nz ) (www.tripadvisor.com ). Rather than a generic motel box, The Furlong has a relaxed “New Zealand country lodge” vibe (www.ticketfairy.com ). Its equestrian theme (the name “Furlong” and décor reflect Hayter’s horse-racing passion (www.ticketfairy.com )) and lush gardens make it feel like a rural retreat on State Highway 3. Over the years it earned a reputation as a friendly haven for truck drivers and travellers – “many long-haul drivers remember The Furlong” as a welcoming stop (www.ticketfairy.com ) – as well as for corporate guests (streamlining events for nearby Fonterra and other companies (thefurlong.co.nz )). This blend of Kiwi hospitality and gold‐leaf amenities has made The Furlong something of a local landmark (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Events and Programming
While primarily a motel, The Furlong is also set up for events. Its large “Grand Hall” and landscaped outdoor areas can be tailored for weddings, conferences, banquets and community gatherings (thefurlong.co.nz ). In practice, the venue is popular for private functions: families hold birthday parties and graduation celebrations in the hall, and local farmers or travellers book rooms for seasonal work or rest (www.ticketfairy.com ). Corporate conferences have been hosted there (one company executive even booked several conferences because of the convenience and friendly staff (www.ticketfairy.com )). Typical programming tends to be regional in scope – the Furlong doesn’t usually put on big-ticket concerts or touring productions. Instead, you’ll find local bands, DJs or community theatre using the hall from time to time. Events are often one-off or annual, so check local listings or The Furlong’s announcements for any upcoming shows. Notably, Ticket listings currently show no major scheduled events at this venue (www.ticketfairy.com ), which suggests that most bookings are private or arranged ad hoc.
Tickets and Booking
The Furlong itself does not have a public box office for standardized event ticketing. Instead, booking the venue or buying event tickets typically happens through promoters or by contacting the motel’s events team. To hire the hall for a function, The Furlong’s website invites inquiries via an online form (thefurlong.co.nz ) (there’s no fixed ticketing counter). For public events, organizers may sell tickets through local outlets or online; it’s best to watch Hawera event calendars or call ahead to the venue’s reception for details. Popular shows should be booked early when announced – seats might be limited in this relatively intimate setting. General admission events at small halls in New Zealand often range from about NZD15–40, depending on the act, though major events could be higher. Always check the specific event page or ask the promoter for pricing tiers and any presale arrangements.
Seating and Layout
The Furlong’s Grand Hall is an open, flexible space designed for multi‐purpose functions. Seating layouts vary with the event: concerts or presentations might use rows of chairs facing a small raised stage area, while banquets use round or rectangular tables. Because seating is not fixed, the best sightlines are usually in the center of the hall. If it’s general admission standing room, try to get near the middle/front for the clearest view. Acoustically, the hall is typical of a motel banquet room – not a stadium or theatre – so sound reinforcement may be used and it can feel intimate. The chalet-style units themselves are single-room studios, with a bed, kitchenette, ensuite bathroom and flat-screen TV (www.booking.com ). The motel grounds include garden pathways and a terrace, but note that rooms do not overlook a stage – they face landscaped lawns. The overall atmosphere is cozy, so even back-row seats are not too far from the stage or speakers.
Getting There and Parking
The Furlong is located at 256 Waihi Road, Hāwera (South Taranaki) (in.hotels.com ). It sits just off State Highway 3 on the way into town. By car, it’s easy to find from the highway – look for the motel signage at the turn-off. On-site parking is ample and free for guests (in.hotels.com ) (www.tripadvisor.com ). In fact, the property boasts two parking areas: a regular lot for cars and a large overflow lot that can accommodate over 20 trucks or trailers (thefurlong.co.nz ) (www.tripadvisor.com ). This historic feature made it especially popular with New Zealand’s “truckies.” If you’re relying on public transport, the Te Huia (Hāwera–New Plymouth Connector bus) has a stop at “Waihi Road, Normanby” (Stop 9005) (www.trc.govt.nz ). From there it’s a short walk or drive back toward Hawera town, but bear in mind that service is typically weekdays only and ends mid-afternoon. There is no late-night bus service, so evening events usually require a taxi or ride-share. Rideshare coverage can be spotty in smaller towns, so consider booking a local taxi in advance or driving yourself. The motel is also convenient to the main township: Hāwera’s center (King Edward Park, cafes, etc.) is just a couple of kilometres away by road (in.hotels.com ).
Inside the Venue
On arrival, visitors enter through the motel’s reception area. For events, staff will check you in just as they would for hotel guests. Security is straightforward – the venue is family-friendly and generally requires only standard ID checks (e.g. you must be 18 to check in as a guest (in.hotels.com )). Once inside the hall or gardens, the atmosphere is casual and relaxed, reflecting local Kiwi hospitality. Amenities include complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the property (in.hotels.com ) and air conditioning in the hall (in.hotels.com ), so you can stay comfortable along with your devices. Each chalet unit has its own ensuite bathroom (www.booking.com ), and additional restrooms are located near the event hall for public functions. Currently, The Furlong does not operate a full restaurant–dining menu (aside from continental breakfast fare) is not available in the hall. The motel does offer an upcoming food service (an online menu is “coming soon” (thefurlong.co.nz )), hinting that event catering options may improve. In practice, most visitors buy food and drink from the on-site lounge (when open) or nearby cafes and takeaways. There is no coat check or merchandise shop in the hall, but there is a picnic/BBQ area and outdoor terrace (in.hotels.com ) for informal gatherings. You’re welcome to take photos and videos during performances (no signage forbidding cameras has been noted), though it’s always polite to ask the performers or organizers just in case. If you need to charge devices, there are power outlets by the tables and a business desk at reception for guest use.
Nearby Amenities
The Furlong is convenient to local Hāwera shops and eateries. For pre-show meals, the Black & White café is about a 2-minute walk away (in.hotels.com ). It serves casual fare and coffee and is very popular with locals. If you prefer fast food, a McDonald’s and KFC are a short drive (around 4 minutes) down the highway (in.hotels.com ). For higher-end dining or drinks, downtown Hāwera (about 2 km away) has places like Rough Habits Bar & Restaurant and the King Edward Hotel Pub. Don’t miss Hawera’s waterfront Water Tower landmark, adjacent to the i-SITE visitor centre (thefurlong.co.nz ) - you can climb it for free views. Family-friendly attractions (Tawhiti Museum dioramas, aquatic centre, plantation gardens (thefurlong.co.nz )) are also within 5–10 minutes by car. If you arrived early and want to kill time, Hāwera’s main street has boutiques and an Elvis museum. For accommodations beyond The Furlong’s own units, other motels in town include Quality Inn Hawera, Collegiate Court Motel and Redwood Motor Lodge; they are within 10–15 minutes of The Furlong. As for nightlife, Hāwera is quiet after dark. The late-night transport is sparse: most buses stop by early evening (www.trc.govt.nz ), so either plan a taxi ride home or take advantage of The Furlong’s comfortable rooms.
What Makes This Venue Special
The Furlong stands out in Hawera for its blend of rustic charm and storybook hospitality. Guests often describe it less like a motel and more like a “hidden garden oasis” (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ) – it truly feels “serene and hidden” even though it’s on a main road (www.ticketfairy.com ). Architecturally, the chalet-style units and lush lawns give it a country-lodge atmosphere rather than the look of a standard motel (www.ticketfairy.com ). The place carries a bit of local legend too: Brian Hayter’s love of horse racing is evident throughout (even small décor items are horse-themed (www.ticketfairy.com )), and the name “The Furlong” itself references a racing measure. Culturally, it matters because of its history as a rest stop and community hub. Long-haul drivers know it as the friendly spot with “lots of parking” (www.tripadvisor.com ) for rigs, and nearby town folk have held hundreds of celebrations in its halls over the decades (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). The venue has been updated (new heat pumps and bathrooms) but managers have preserved the old charm (www.ticketfairy.com ). Many locals will tell you The Furlong still feels like a “home base” for Hāwera (www.ticketfairy.com ). All this – the leafy garden setting, the friendly “Kiwi hospitality,” the mix of old and new – means both performers and audiences often feel uniquely at ease here. It’s not just another motel; it’s part of the Hawera community’s story.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: All guest rooms at The Furlong are on the ground floor (www.booking.com ), which should help visitors with mobility needs. However, the venue’s website does not detail specific wheelchair ramps or accessible bathrooms, so it’s wise to inquire in advance if you have special requirements. Parking lots are level and paved. What to Bring: For motel stays, bring typical travel items (ID, toiletries, and NZ power adaptors if you’re international). If attending an event, carry your ticket confirmation (printed or digital). Doors usually open before showtime, so arrive early to find parking. In winter or rainy weather, pack warm layers – evenings can be cool outside. Dress Code: The Furlong is casual. Most events here are informal, so smart-casual apparel is fine (think tidy jeans or trousers and a nice top/shirt). There’s no strict coat-check, but arriving in a jacket or sweater you can easily hang in your car is sensible, especially on colder nights. Age Restrictions: The motel allows guests 18+ to book rooms (in.hotels.com ). For event entry, any age policies depend on the act (e.g. concerts with alcohol may be 18+). Check the specific event’s rules. There’s no in-house age limit for casual visits to the venue itself. Children are welcome at family-oriented functions. Food and Drink: Each room has a small kitchenette (fridge, microwave, kettle, etc. (www.booking.com )), so you can make coffee or snacks. Bottled water and basic tea/coffee are provided. Outside food or drink typically isn’t sold on-site (the café/restaurant menu is still pending (thefurlong.co.nz )), so plan to eat at nearby eateries or bring your own. For an easy late snack, the on-property BBQ/picnic area can be handy if it’s open. Parking Tips: The extensive carpark means you needn’t pay or change meters. During big events, however, the lower carpark fills up, so use the overflow lot. Large vehicles (trailers) are welcomed with room to manoeuvre (www.tripadvisor.com ). Connectivity: Wi-Fi is free and usually reliable (in.hotels.com ), covering both rooms and common areas. Mobile coverage from NZ providers is generally strong on the highway, but your signal may dip indoors in the hall; using Wi-Fi calling can help if needed. Common Mistakes: Don’t assume the bus will run late – plan alternate transport for after 5pm (especially on weekends when no buses run). Also, double-check check-in times: reception is open until early evening (2–8pm) (thefurlong.co.nz ), so arriving much later requires a heads-up call. Avoid bringing large bags or tripping hazards (the hall area is carpeted and steps-free, but you still share space with others). Lastly, it may rain in Taranaki, so an umbrella or raincoat is useful for arriving from your car. Insider Tip: The Furlong is pet-friendly when arranged in advance (www.ticketfairy.com ). If you’re travelling with a dog, just let them know at booking time – there’s even a fenced pet exercise area on the grounds. Also, in summer months the motel gardens attract cicadas and evening guests (bring a light sweater, they can find little nooks). Arriving 15–30 minutes before an event gives you time to settle in the relaxing grounds or grab a coffee at the nearby café (in.hotels.com ).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the location and address of The Furlong?
The Furlong is located at 256 Waihi Road, Hāwera, Taranaki. It’s just off State Highway 3 on the southern side of Hāwera township. This puts it about 15 minutes’ drive south of New Plymouth, and only a few minutes from Hāwera’s town centre and attractions (in.hotels.com ). The central Hawera area (museums, parks, cafes) lies roughly 2–3 km away, easily reachable by a short drive or local bus connection. Grenzen landmarks include the Hāwera Aquatic Centre and the iconic Water Tower, both just a few minutes north off SH 3 (in.hotels.com ).
Does The Furlong have its own parking, and is it free?
Yes. The Furlong provides complimentary on-site parking for all guests (in.hotels.com ). This includes a main lot for cars and a very large overflow lot that can easily fit over 20 trucks or trailers (thefurlong.co.nz ) (www.tripadvisor.com ). You will not need to pay or feed a meter. If attending an event, arrive early enough to claim a space near the hall; later arrivals can use the upper overflow area. The paved car park is level and well-lit for evening events.
How can I reach The Furlong by public transportation?
Public buses on the Hāwera–New Plymouth connector route stop on Waihi Road (Normanby) near The Furlong (www.trc.govt.nz ). This service runs weekdays with several trips in the morning and afternoon. To use it, take the bus to stop 9005 (“Waihi Rd, Normanby”) and then walk or taxi the remaining distance back to the motel. However, note that there are no late-night buses and no weekend service, so plan an alternative (taxi or rideshare) if your event runs into the evening. The main Hawera bus interchange is more central, so most visitors still prefer to drive or arrange a lift to reach The Furlong directly.
Are the rooms and facilities wheelchair accessible?
According to their information, all guest units at The Furlong are single-story (ground-floor) studios (www.booking.com ). This means you won’t need to climb stairs to reach your room. While that suggests initial wheelchair access at ground level, the official site doesn’t explicitly list features like roll-in showers or ramps. If you need full accessibility (wide doorways, grab bars, etc.), it’s recommended to contact the venue ahead to confirm. The hall and common areas have level flooring, but the garden paths are outdoor paths (potentially uneven). In short, basic mobility needs are likely met, but double-check with reception if you have specific requirements.
Is there an on-site restaurant or bar?
Currently, The Furlong does not have a full-service restaurant. It has hinted at adding one soon (an online menu is “coming soon” on their site (thefurlong.co.nz )), but at the moment dining is done off-site or in-room. Each studio has a small kitchenette (fridge, microwave, kettle) (www.booking.com ), so guests often make tea/coffee or simple meals themselves. For eating out, the nearby Black & White cafe (a couple of minutes walk) and various Hawera eateries (cafés, takeaways and the pub in town) are the main options. You can bring snacks or picnic food to the property; there’s an outdoor BBQ/picnic area (in.hotels.com ) if you’d like to grill something in nice weather. Alcohol isn’t sold on site, so if you want wine or beer with your meal, pick it up in Hāwera’s shops beforehand (there’s a liquor store a short drive away).
What time is check-in and check-out, and are there any booking rules?
For motel stays, check-in/pickup of room keys is generally in the afternoon (around 2:00 pm) and checkout is by 10:00 am on departure day (thefurlong.co.nz ) (thefurlong.co.nz ). The reception front desk operates roughly 8 am–8 pm, and unless arranged in advance, guests arriving much later than 8 pm should call ahead. One person from your group must be at least 18 years old to check in (in.hotels.com ). Rates are quoted in NZ dollars and include GST (thefurlong.co.nz ). If you need to cancel or modify a booking, The Furlong typically treats reservations as non-refundable unless you make special arrangements in writing (thefurlong.co.nz ). Always double-check the current policies when you book.
Is The Furlong pet-friendly?
Yes, The Furlong does welcome pets in certain rooms. The motel notes that it is “pet friendly by arrangement” and even provides a dedicated dog-walking area on the grounds (www.ticketfairy.com ). If you plan to bring a dog or cat, be sure to inform them at booking time so they can assign one of the rooms designated for pets. Expect to follow their pet policies (e.g., leash rules in common areas) and possibly pay a small extra cleaning fee. Service animals for guests with disabilities are also typically accommodated, as is customary at New Zealand lodgings.
What styles of seating are used in the Grand Hall?
The Grand Hall’s chairs and tables are movable, allowing different layouts for each event. For concerts or talks, the chairs are usually placed in rows facing the front, whereas for banquets or dinners you’ll see round or long tables spread out. In practice, this means you can often request how you’d like it set up when you book a function. Since there are no fixed balcony seats, front-and-center positions are ideal for the best sightlines. If you have specific needs (e.g. you must sit near an exit), mention it when booking. The hall’s acoustics are similar to most hotel conference rooms – not stadium level – so performers generally use portable sound gear.
Are outside food, drink, or cameras allowed?
Outside food and drink policies depend on the event. Since The Furlong lacks a restaurant, many guests bring their own snacks. For catered events (like weddings or conferences), outside food is typically managed with the caterers. Alcohol is not sold on site, so any drinks must come from offsite sources or the itinerary (e.g. a bar setup at a function). Cameras and video recording are generally permitted, but as with any performance venue, always ask the performer or event host if flash photography or filming is allowed. There are no special photo restrictions known, so feel free to capture memories in the audience or of the gardens.
What is the meaning of the name “The Furlong”?
The name “The Furlong” reflects the founder’s horse-racing background. A furlong is an old measure of distance (one-eighth of a mile) traditionally used in racing. Brian Hayter, who conceived and built the venue, was a well-known figure in New Zealand’s equestrian circles (thefurlong.co.nz ). His passion for horses is subtly woven into the venue’s theme – for example, you’ll notice horse-themed artwork and accents inside the rooms and halls (www.ticketfairy.com ). So the name is a nod to that heritage and adds to the country-lodge character of the place.
