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Built in 1895 for Victorian benefactor Sir Heaton Rhodes, this exclusive homestead retreat is surrounded by spectacular botanical gardens and retains many original features, from the stained glass windows to the ornate fireplaces.  Yet it's also the state-of-the-art services that impress.  Individually designed suites ... superb seasonal cuisine and fine wines ... hot tub and swimming pool - altogether the ideal base from which to explore Christchurch and local wineries.  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.   Otahuna is Sir Heaton Rhodes’ greatest legacy, an enduring testament to his love for the finer things in life. The homestead is considered one of the best examples of unspoiled Queen Anne architecture in Australasia. Praised for its irregular shape, romantic rooflines, extensive use of New Zealand timber, and elaborate architectural detail, Otahuna is now protected by a Category One listing from the New Zealand Historic places trust. The spectacular 110-year old gardens of Otahuna were laid out and cultivated under the direction of A. E. Lowe who trained at Kew Gardens, London.  Wide vistas over lawn and lake contrast beautifully with intimate walks which wind through heavily wooded areas.   Only 20 minutes away from Otahuna Lodge, Christchurch city centre deserves a full day of exploration. With its historic stone buildings, boulevards, green open spaces and gentle River Avon, New Zealand's second largest city is ideal for walking around. There are galleries, cafés, bars and restaurants to linger in and world-class botanic gardens that should not be missed. The Canterbury region is paradise for trout and salmon fishermen. Four of the best-producing rivers are within a 90-minute drive from the Lodge.  The Christchurch area is home to over twenty-five golf courses, more per capita than anywhere else in the world.  Excellent golfing is available close to Otahuna – from the nine-hole country course at Tai Tapu golf club less than a kilometre away, to the internationally acclaimed resort courses at Russley, Clearwater and Terrace Downs. Scenic flights in a light aircraft or helicopter are an excellent way to view the natural beauty of New Zealand. In a relatively short time, it is possible to see a wide variety of the scenery for which the country is justly famous: spectacular mountain passes, glaciers and snow-capped peaks; rugged coastline; rolling hills; patchwork plains carved by rivers; hidden lakes and secret beaches.  A flight over Kaikoura allows passengers to view whales and dolphin in their natural habitat, from the air. A landing and a champagne picnic in most of these places is possible.  Fixed wing flights depart from Christchurch airport but helicopters can pick up guests from the front lawn of Otahuna. FACILITIES Style Exclusive Country Estate Air/Con No Dining The cuisine celebrates the best of seasonal New Zealand produce, with an emphasis on fresh Otahuna estate-grown offerings. Dinner is a five-course chef’s degustation menu which changes daily, making use of the best fresh produce and guests’ dietary requirements.  At dinner, dne communally in the opulent dining room or alternatively, retreat to a private table for two in the sunken wine cellar, the intimate library, the drawing room turret, or a location of your choosing. Children Children 13 years and over are accepted. Accommodation Otahuna Lodge offers 5 suites and 2 master suites. Each retains architectural features from the 19th century such as ornate original fireplaces and stained glass windows. All luxury suites offer super-king beds, fine custom-made linens, toiletries by Penhaligon’s of London, deep bathtubs and separate rain showers. Activities The country estate offers a range of amenities and activities including swimming at heated swimming pool and outdoor spa, gym and massage facilities, tennis, croquet and petanque. Garden lovers can enjoy a complimentary guided tour of the estate's garden.  Neighbours in the Otahuna Valley specialise in riding using the principles of natural horsemanship, commonly referred to as "horse whispering".  They offer a variety of excellent rides, from short afteroon rides on the hills to full day adventure along spectacular stretches of coastline and mountainside.  Location Reached 20 minutes by road from Christchurch Airport.  Price Range £242 per person per night sharing, including breakfast and dinner. Find Similar Properties