Brookhaven Cottage is owned by Sally & Jamie Arbuckle.
Jamie was born and raised in Rapaura on a large Apple and Cherry Orchard. His family owned a number of properties along Rapaura Road and operated a large packing shed that can still be seen today as Hamilton Engineering. He remembers when there was over 380 Apple orchards in the district, many of them along Rapaura Road, now known as the golden mile of vineyards.
The changes has been amazing to witness over the years and I do like telling people about the past. On the school bus, it was rare to see a vineyard out the window, one of my friends parents, the Scotts had just planted a vineyard. It was a novelty at that time, who would of guessed that would be ther trend and one of the most recognised names in Marlborough Wine industry today.
After finishing a Diploma in business, he worked on the family orchard till he started his own fruit business at the local markets. Soon after meeting Sally, they bought a small block of land close to Blenheim. A small orchard and shop was established and for over 15 years was a regular stopping point for many locals to buy fresh fruit and vegetables.
Jamie has always been interested in Politics. In 2010, he was elected to the Marlborough District Council as the youngest ever Marlborough Councillor at the age of 31 years. He is now serving his fourth term as a Blenheim Ward Councillor and has always polled number one in each election. He has also been runner up as Mayoralty candidate. In 2017, he stood for Central Government for the New Zealand First Party and was well supported.
Recently Jamie and Sally have purchased their dream property at Bedford Road. It's like coming home for Jamie. A small orchard is being planted, a reminder of his early years. We can raise our children in the country and have some sheep and chickens. We enjoy the peaceful lifestyle, we hope to share our property with you.
We look forward to hosting you at our scenic bed & breakfast. We are generally on the property. Arrangements can be made if we are out and about.
