Our Story

Nicky Toresen and husband Aaron moved to Ness Valley, Clevedon in 2013 to create a haven for their family. Their long-term vision was to develop a unique environment that brings vibrant people together to enjoy a country experience with a tropical resort feel, without leaving Auckland. This intention was supercharged after their family survived a helicopter crash in 2015, energising their resolve to make this a reality. Fantail Farm was established in 2017 with completion of phase one, a 22 metre 180,000 litre pool with sub-tropical landscaping and waterfall features.

In 2018 a pool Cabana was built to compliment the environment, complete with a stone fireplace and pizza oven, kitchen and bar. The purpose-built Cabana, break-out areas and landscaping are influenced by Nicky’s background in experience design.  In 2019 Fantail Farm became available for boutique team events and celebrations, fulfilling Nicky’s objective to merge her work and personal lives. Creating connections, spaces and activities to inspire and motivate behaviour is what Nicky loves to do.

Nicky’s background in experience design includes work in the financial capital markets, start-up ventures, business design integration and most recently education. Her roles with AUT University and Better by Design (part of New Zealand Trade & Enterprise) honed her strategic facilitation and design thinking skills, and led to working with world-leaders in these fields.

See Nicky’s LinkedIn profile for more details.