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New Zealand: 4 Luxurious High Country Farm Stays We Love
- Xin Xin Loh
- Mar 26
- 4 min read
When you think of New Zealand, images of sweeping landscapes and rugged wilderness often come to mind. But tucked away in the high country are farm stays that offer a unique blend of luxury, comfort, and authentic rural charm. These places are perfect for travellers who want to escape the ordinary and immerse themselves in nature without sacrificing style. We visited four exceptional farm stays that combine high-end accommodation with the beauty of New Zealand’s countryside. Each offers something special, whether it’s a cozy cabin, a contemporary villa, or a historic homestead.
Annandale: A Jet Lag Remedy Just Outside Christchurch
Annandale feels like a world away from the city, yet it is only about 1.5 hours from Christchurch. This makes it an ideal spot to recover from long flights and adjust to the time zone in peace. The property features four villas, but our favourite is Scrubby Bay. It is a beautifully appointed 3-bedroom villa that blends rustic charm with modern comforts. The setting is tranquil with bay views, surrounded by rolling hills and native bush, making it easy to unwind. For couples not needing so much space, Seascape is a modern villa tucked into the hillside with floor-to-ceiling windows and its own private bay.
What stands out about Annandale is the balance between privacy and access to nature. You can spend your days exploring nearby walking and biking trails or simply relax on the deck with a glass of wine. The farm stay also offers fresh, local produce, which adds to the authentic experience. The Chef and his team deliver pre-made meals daily to your fridge during the housekeeping service, with full reheating and preparation instructions, so you can dine in the comfort of the villa with minimal hassle.
From here, it is a short 30-minute drive to the charming village of Akaroa, where you can board a day cruise to see Hector's dolphins and the rare White-Flippered Little Blue Penguin (October to February only).
Recommended length of stay: 3 nights
Flock Hill Station: Exceptional Guided Experiences
What we think Flock Hill Station does best amongst our shortlist of high country stations is its exceptional guide team, who can tailor outdoor adventures to your interests and skill level. Whether you want to go hiking, fishing, or horseback riding, their expertise ensures a memorable experience. We enjoyed the Station Tour where Kyle took us (two young kids in tow) on an adventure around the property, including a short hike to Rata Falls and dipping our feet in the Meandering Stream. The accommodation here is equally impressive, with newly built villas that come in one and two-bedroom options. These contemporary homes feature clean lines, large windows, and open-plan living spaces. Their restaurant, Sugarloaf, is not to be missed. We enjoyed the tasting menu by Chef Taylor Cullen and all the local, seasonal ingredients featured.
The real showstopper at Flock Hill is the Homestead. This 4-bedroom villa has spacious rooms, elegant décor, and expansive views from its hilltop location which makes it perfect for groups or families looking for a high-end retreat. Staying here means you get the best of both worlds: expert outdoor activities and stylish, comfortable living.
Recommended length of stay: 2 nights
Lake Hawea Station: Rustic Elegance with a Focus on Regenerative Farming
If you prefer a more rustic feel without giving up comfort, Lake Hawea Station offers a cozy one and two-bedroom cabins. The interiors are warm and inviting, with natural materials and thoughtful design touches that create a relaxed atmosphere. What makes this farm stay stand out is its commitment to regenerative farming practices. Guests can learn about sustainable agriculture and how the land is cared for to maintain its health and productivity.
This stay is ideal for travellers who want to connect with the land and understand the farming lifestyle while enjoying a peaceful, stylish home base without staff fussing around, since it's self-catered. In the summer, its location near Lake Hawea means you can avoid the crowds, but still have access to Lake Wanaka and for those who are really looking for a Fly-Hike adventure, get in touch with Xin! She can tell you all about her Siberia Valley experience.
Recommended length of stay: 2 nights
The Lindis Lodge: Intimate Pods with Stunning Valley Views
The Lindis Lodge offers newly built pods that blend seamlessly into the landscape. These small cabins (18 square metres) overlook the Ahuriri Valley, providing breathtaking views right from your doorstep. The design is minimalist, focusing on comfort and connection with nature.
One of the highlights here is the outdoor hot tub, perfect for stargazing on clear nights. The pods are small but thoughtfully designed to maximize space and light, making them a cozy retreat after a day of exploring. The Lindis Lodge is a great choice if you want a romantic getaway in a spectacular setting.
Recommended length of stay: 3 nights
Each of these farm stays offers a unique way to experience New Zealand’s high country. Get in touch with our Travel Designers to find out which property would best suit your bespoke exploration of the South Island, and how we can match these with other stunning locations and experiences.
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