Accommodation Inspirations - Part 2 - Cattle Flat Hut

A hidden hovel, well no, not quite. Well sort off, but that’s really not the right description. I mean it is hidden but a hovel, certainly not. Cattle Flat Hut is found in a secluded spot at Banks Peninsula about an hour’s drive from central Christchurch, the South Island’s biggest city. It seems a world away from anywhere. If the last days were to happen whilst you were staying at Cattle Flat Hut, I am willing to bet it would take you months to be discovered. If you want to escape the everyday hustle and bustle of life, or simply just relax a while, immerse yourself in nature and the luxury of peace and quiet it’s well worth considering spending a few days here.

The hut itself is found down a winding farm track, across pastures and through closed gates. The only life you will see are the sheep that graze these paddocks and love nothing more than welcoming you with a hearty baa. To be honest most are shy and scarper as you approach but beware, they do leave their poop behind for good measure to it’s worth bringing your gum boots or other enclosed footwear with you.

Sheep are your only neighbours at Cattle Flat Hut

The hut itself is not visible until you approach the end of the track. It ensures total privacy. I actually got worried at one point that I’d got the wrong turn off and was edging my way towards falling over the side of one of the cliff-faces. Overlooking Pigeon Bay, the volcanic hillside’s role down the valley and on a clear day the views out to the Pacific Ocean are magical. You can see for miles across to the horizon with the welcome knowledge that you are all alone.

The hut is compact but more than big enough for two people. There is a small kitchen with everything you could possibly need.

A BBQ is also available outside the back door. The shower has oodles of hot water and there is an outside bathtub to truly appreciate those clear starry night skies. A double bed and two cosy armchairs bedside a small wood burning stove complete the set up. Outside there is a large deck area with a table and chair set, perfect of an al-fresco breakfast or lunch on a sunny day enjoying those captivating views.

Bathtub, outside table and chair set and those views across Pigeon Bay and beyond

I’ve stayed here twice now, trust me it’s not enough, although it’s the benefit I guess of living just a short drive away. For anyone wanting a taste of New Zealand or just some time out I’d totally recommend it. You could take a good book (or in this writer’s case a pen and paper) and while away the hours chilling. You may want to be creative and consider the next stage of your life. Alternatively, if you do yearn for some civilisation, Akaroa, is just a short drive across the Peninsula where you can find some great lunch spots - an article to follow I promise, offering some great ideas.