Get off the beaten track with a stay in the cosiest, wholesome alpine retreat. Kererū Retreat is a handcrafted tiny cabin that lies on farmland in Pudding Hill, roughly an hour from Christchurch. This award-winning cabin is the work of architectural studio Studio Now, with a carefully considered design so couples or solo travellers can have the perfect escape in the countryside.
Kererū Retreat allows you to escape the everyday and enjoy a few nights in a unique and secluded gem on a working farm. Walk through the native bush nearby, stoke the fire and watch the sunset at this Canterbury getaway.
With only the sounds of nearby livestock and the crackling of the lit fire, Kererū Retreat is a peaceful setting to spend the night. Located in Pudding Hill, 10 minutes from the popular alpine village of Methven, this is a fantastic escape without being overly isolated. Stock up on goodies in town before heading to the end of the rural road and arriving at this architecturally interesting alpine cabin. Past the green pastures are views of dense forest, rolling hills and mountains in the distance.
Submit to the elements during your stay. If it’s a summer stunner, soak up the sun on the front deck. If it’s a moody day, batten down the hatches and watch mother nature take over from the comfort of the cabin. The small wood burner fire will keep you toasty warm throughout the night.
The cabin itself is a sight for sore eyes. The interior is warm and inviting, crafted with locally grown pine, poplar and macrocarpa. Architectural studio Studio Now attended to every detail, down to the handcrafted copper tapware. The kitchen is aesthetically pleasing and functional, with a cooktop for preparing a hot cuppa or a cosy dinner. As the night draws closer (or the wind picks up) you can close the window hatches making the cabin blend in with its surroundings. Just a warm glow of the lights and the fireplace trickle out to the paddocks outdoors.
A taste of tiny alpine cabin life will bring you right back down to earth, where the simple things are joyous and taking time to enjoy the moment comes centre stage. Kererū Retreat is powered by the sun, giving you an off-grid experience. Solar panels provide enough power for lighting, running the fridge and charging your devices. Though you’ve got a bit of phone service (depending on your phone provider) you may not feel the need to stay connected. Light that fire, read a book and play a few card games instead.
Read more about Kererū Retreat here.
Enjoy the perks of a remote stay, without sacrificing on things to do. Kererū Retreat is near Te Awa Awa Rata Reserve, with native bush walks only a short distance from the cabin. Stretch your legs and enjoy the native forest.
Kererū Retreat is roughly 10 minutes from Methven, a hub in the mountainous Canterbury landscape. A visit to Ōpuke Thermal Pools is a must-do in the area, with their beautiful outdoor thermal pools being the ideal spot to soak up views of the Canterbury Plains and the Southern Alps.
If you’re visiting in winter, Kererū Retreat is the perfect base for your ski holiday. Mt Hutt Ski Area is just 2km down the road. Ski or snowboard all day, and head back to the cabin for that much-needed rest and relaxation. This retreat will add to a winter escape in the South Island, with its cosy tiny house vibes and unique, quiet surroundings.
Exploring Christchurch and beyond? A tiki tour to the small town of Methven and the peaceful setting of Pudding Hill will add heart and soul to your trip. Whether it’s a ski holiday, a summer road trip or something special in between, tack on a night or two in the peaceful countryside, an hour and a bit from Christchurch.
Book your stay at Kererū Retreat here.
New Zealand Guide was hosted by Kererū Retreat.
