Otahuna Countryside Escape

On arrival to Christchurch, you will pick up your car hire and drive to the historical luxury accommodation, Otahuna Lodge. Otahuna was built in 1895 for Sir Heaton Rhodes, a high-profile pioneer of Canterbury, and his wife Jessie. The name “Otahuna” is Maori and popularly translates as “little hill among the hills.” The homestead sits atop a small hill, between the rocky outcrops of the Banks Peninsula, providing commanding views of the gardens and across the plains to the Southern Alps. Once settled in, take a tour of the estate's own century-old garden. The tour provides insight into the history of Otahuna, explaining why and how Victorians grew certain kinds of plants, as well as the many ways in which the current garden team restores and maintains Heaton Rhodes’ greatest legacy. You will start your evening with canapes and drinks before embarking on a delicious 5 course dinner with wine pairing.

Today we recommend you drive one hour north of Otahuna Lodge to the Waipara wine district, which is New Zealand’s hottest wine region and home to some excellent boutique vineyards. If you are not keen on the vineyards, how about a drive to Akaroa and take a dolphin tour on the Akaroa Harbour? Or maybe opt for a helicopter tour, hiking, biking, fly fishing or perhaps you just want to enjoy the comforts and history of your lodge.

This morning after breakfast you will checkout. You may wish to explore Christchurch city and the lovely botanical gardens before dropping your car off or you maybe continuing on a longer trip with us through the South Island.