New lessees have taken over management of Bushy Park Homestead.
Victoria Rhodes and Rennie Houlihan are providing accommodation, morning and afternoon teas, lunches, dinners, events and activities for special occasions in their new roles.
Bushy Park Trust chairwoman Liz Tennet said she was thrilled the couple had stepped into the role and she had every confidence they would provide a quality service to all visitors and overseas guests.
"The Homestead is a Category I historic building under Heritage NZ, and takes visitors back to how life was lived in a grand house over 100 years ago," Ms Tennet said.
"Victoria and Rennie are enthusiastic about their new venture, love telling the old stories about the Homestead to their visitors, and are serving up delicious meals. Their two sons are exploring the forest as their new playground."
Ms Rhodes said they regarded the Homestead as "a grand old lady who can be brought back to life".
"It's a beautiful venue for weddings, executive meetings and special events, and visitors love the peaceful environment. Day visitors are always welcome to explore the forest, receive a tour of the Homestead, or enjoy a high tea on the veranda or around the fire," she said.
Mr Houlihan said: "We're also going to encourage campervans to visit and, as I'm a pretty good cook and bottle-washer, dinners in the grand dining room will become a feature."
Booking for lunch or dinner can be made by calling 342 9879 or 027 753 9531.
Ms Tennet said the Homestead was located in the Bushy Park sanctuary, which was one of Wanganui's special places.
"The sanctuary is considered one of the 25 best restoration ecology projects in Australasia, is an intact remnant of lowland forest, now rare in the region, and is home to the largest North Island rata tree in the world."