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South Island

Start: Akaroa
Duration: 2 days

A Secluded Farmstay on the Banks Peninsula Coast

A private sleeping unit on a working sheep farm offers a peaceful overnight stay in remote Pōhatu Bay. The sheltered beach sits only metres from the accommodation, with birdsong, grazing sheep and the sound of the sea creating a quiet coastal setting away from towns and mobile coverage.

The package begins in Akaroa and includes scenic 4WD transport, coastal viewpoints and a visit to Akaroa Heads Lighthouse Reserve. Time at the bay may also include a self-guided native forest walk, a complimentary evening penguin tour when operating in season, and discounted guided sea kayaking the following morning.

Highlights

  • Overnight stay beside a sheltered beach at Pōhatu Bay
  • Coastal views from the rim of the ancient Akaroa volcano
  • Native forest, streams and waterfalls along optional walking routes
  • Quiet evenings without mobile coverage or town lights
  • Seasonal opportunities to see wild kororā
  • Clear-night views of the Milky Way
  • Morning kayaking available at a discounted rate
  • Scenic 4WD transport from Akaroa
  • One night in a private sleeping unit
  • Linen and safe drinking water
  • Communal kitchen, toilet and shower facilities
  • Visit to Akaroa Heads Lighthouse Reserve
  • Optional self-guided forest walk
  • Free evening penguin tour when operating in season
  • Discounter guided sea kayaking
  • Free overnight parking
  • Food and snacks for the overnight stay
  • Warm clothing for the evening
  • Waterproof jacket
  • Walking shoes or hiking boots
  • Swimwear and towel
  • Clothing that can get damp if kayaking
  • Sunscreen and sun hat
  • Refillable water bottle
  • Personal medication

Private sleeping units provide simple, comfortable accommodation for couples, families and small groups. Linen is included, with shared toilets, hot showers and a communal kitchen located nearby.

The kitchen includes an oven, microwave, fridges, cookware, cutlery, tea, coffee and sugar. Guests need to bring enough food for the overnight stay, as there are no shops at Pōhatu Bay.

Important Information

Pōhatu Bay is an isolated, off-grid location with no mobile reception. A landline is available at the family homestead for emergencies.

Safe drinking water is available at the accommodation. Children should be supervised around the beach, farm animals and natural walking tracks.

Outdoor activities depend on weather, track conditions and wildlife behaviour. Penguin viewing is seasonal, while sea kayaking operates only when conditions are considered safe.

  • More than 48hours before departure: Full refund**
  • Within 48 hours: No refund

Note: **Any refund approved under our terms and conditions will be subject to a 5% admin & processing fee, which will be deducted from the refund amount. Please see more information on refunds and cancellations in Go New Zealand's terms and conditions.

Frequently asked questions

Yes. A discounted guided sea-kayaking safari can usually be added the following morning, subject to weather, sea conditions and participant suitability.

A complimentary evening penguin tour is included when it is operating and penguins are present in season. Wildlife sightings depend on natural behaviour and cannot be guaranteed.

Yes. The accommodation is self-catering, so guests need enough food and snacks for the overnight stay. A communal kitchen with cooking equipment, fridges, tea and coffee is provided.

The overnight package includes transport from Akaroa, a private sleeping unit, linen, communal kitchen and bathroom facilities, a visit to Akaroa Heads, an optional forest walk and a seasonal evening penguin tour.

Check-in takes place at the Akaroa office before scenic 4WD transport to the accommodation at Pōhatu Bay.

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