Annandale

Hidden away on Banks Peninsula, just a scenic hour's drive (or 15 minute helicopter) from Christchurch, you can sample rural New Zealand at its best here at Annandale, a collection of four distinctive yet laid back luxury villas. Each of the private and secluded villas has its own character and can be booked separately or together for a big celebration.

The largest of the four, The Homestead, was built in the 1880s and features five bedrooms, magnificent grounds and state-of-the-art recreation facilities, including an infinity pool, spa pool and tennis court. Elegant rooms, shaded verandahs, well-kept gardens and exclusive use of the outdoor leisure facilities make the house a great place for relaxation and reflection as a family.

Scrubby Bay offers another great option for families, located in a spectacular valley on the outer reaches of the Annandale property. In this amazing and isolated location, it would be easy to imagine yourself one of the early pioneers but for the modern comforts to be found in the luxurious cedar-clad beach house. A sun-drenched deck, three ocean-front bedroom suites plus a bunk room that can sleep 8, and a huge open plan dining and living space, well stocked with books and games for all ages, mean there is plenty of space for everyone to relax and do their own thing, coming together as and when you choose.

For two guests, perhaps on a honeymoon or looking for a secluded getaway, the Shepherd's Cottage is the perfect retreat. On arrival at Annandale, one of the drivers will escort you on a spectacular 30-minute 4WD journey across the cliff-top farm tracks to this exclusive and remote property, previously only enjoyed by generations of Annandale shepherds. Now it has been carefully restored and extended to ensure a romantic and memorable stay: relax in the outside bathtub at the end of the day and snuggle up on the sheepskins in front of the open fire, before heading upstairs to the warm bedroom under the eaves.

For a coastal escape, Seascape is the perfect spot. The sparkling jewel in Annandale’s crown: a picturesque private bay, above which an ultra-modern retreat provides a truly romantic experience. Accessed by helicopter or by a 40-minute transfer in a 4WD Annandale vehicle across the cliff-top farm tracks, this awe-inspiring setting is perfect for honeymooners. From within, it appears you are floating on the open sea, yet safely embraced by luxury and modern comforts. Outside, dolphins and seals often frolic in the glittering water, with only you and the tussock grass to witness them.

Dining at Annandale is a true pleasure, and there is total flexibility to choose the level of service you require, from private chef to stocked pantry, then make the experience your own. For a honeymoon couple who want total seclusion, have all your groceries delivered to your villa for you to prepare and enjoy the freshest local produce in the privacy of your own space. If you'd prefer not to cook for yourself on vacation, then we can arrange for the award winning chef to come and cater for your every need.

Annandale offers every luxury and comfort on the inside, but it is what’s on the outside that really sets this place apart. While on the property, guests can see all kinds of wildlife, including dolphins and some of New Zealand's unique native birds, experience a 4WD farm tour, mountain biking, hiking, or perhaps even help with some sheep and cattle mustering.

Only a 30-minute drive from the Annandale homestead is the French-influenced town of Akaroa. Nestled in the center of an ancient and extinct volcano, which is now an enormous and picturesque bay, its streets are lined with cafes, bistros, and quirky shops. A number of water-based activities depart from the main pier, including fishing and diving charters, dolphin-watching and dolphin-swimming tours and penguin viewing tours.