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Goodwood Heights

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Goodwood Heights

Goodwood, Otago


Goodwood Heights is 45 minutes North of Dunedin in the South Island.

Tucked away on a gentle rise, a quaint hut for couples gazes out towards Pleasant River estuary and the ocean. This couples' retreat is nestled amidst 4,000 native plants, creeks, ponds and birdlife - a haven for wildlife.

The cosy hut contains a comfy bed, breakfast bar, and plush chairs nestled beside a crackling wood burner. Step outside onto the wrap-around deck, where a steaming hot tub awaits with stunning ocean views. A well-sheltered outdoor kitchen is just metres away, with a refreshing outdoor shower tucked between the buildings.

Simple living never looked so good. Stroll the lush bush walks weaved throughout the property, or venture to nearby Tavora Reserve for a chance to see the incredible yellow-eyed penguins.

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Eating and drinking near Escape

EATING AND DRINKING

Goodwood Heights is self-catering. Just bring your own food and drink, and cook meals using the two-burner gas hob and BBQ provided. You'll find all the cutlery, crockery, pots and pans that you'll need.

Looking for a break from cooking? Why not try some fantastic dining options nearby. There's Moeraki Boulders Tavern in Moeraki, Waihemo Lodge Tavern in Palmerston, or The Southern Smokehouse in Waikouaiti - all less than 30 minutes away and great options for dinner.

For a delicious lunch, head out to The Outpost Cafe or Beano's Bakery, both just 15 minutes away in Waikouaiti.

And if you're craving a cuppa, The Coffee Cup Cafe in Palmerston or Moeraki Boulders Cafe are perfect choices.

The nearest store for stocking up on food and supplies is a 4-Square in Palmerston, 10 minutes away, or larger supermarkets in Dunedin, 40 minutes away.

Things to do near Escape

THINGS TO DO

You might just find that Goodwood Heights becomes your ultimate hangout spot - you won't want to leave! There's an outdoor hot tub, alfresco hot shower, board games, cards and books from some local authors to keep you occupied.

If you prefer to get out and about, Moeraki is only half an hour away and offers plenty of leisurely activities such as fishing, boating, walks, and wildlife observation. There is a very popular 45-minute walk along the beach to the renowned Moeraki Boulders (formed about 65 million years ago!) Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Moeraki Lighthouse, especially near dusk as there's a good chance you'll see seals and yellow-eyed penguins up close.

Ascend to the summit of Mt Puketapu, a mere 5-minute drive away followed by an under-an-hour stroll to reach the peak. Revel in the breathtaking 360-degree vistas stretching from the coastline to the heart of Central Otago.

The Tavora Reserve is just 5 minutes away and offers yet another chance to see yellow-eyed penguins. There is also a great walking track and a lovely secluded beach area.

Your hosts at Escape

YOUR HOSTS

Your hosts at Goodwood Heights are Steven and Melissa, along with their children, Abigail, Jackson, Marcus and Sophie. An extension of the family includes their three dogs Sky, Jem, and Tux, along with their cat, Gucci.

Steve's family has been farming in Otago for five generations now. The farming originally started in Purakanui before moving to Flag Swamp, where the current farm is located. He expanded this family farm to incorporate Goodwood Farm, where your accommodation is, about 20 years ago.

The farm's history dates back to 1840 when it was surveyed into small farmlets for families immigrating from England, Scotland, and Ireland. At one point, about 10 families were living on Goodwood Farm alone. Goodwood Heights actually sits where one family resided 150 years ago. More details about the history will be in your welcome guide at the hut.

The family's favourite aspects of the property are the gentle rolling hills, native bush, sea views, and rock outcrops from volcanic activity millions of years ago.

The name "Goodwood" captures the essence of the local area, while "Heights" symbolizes the farm's elevated position, stretching from the coastal area to the hills where the accommodation is nestled.

TESTIMONIALS

“ Goodwill Heights is a camper's oasis, with simple but thoughtful luxuries like an outdoor kitchen, spa pool under the stars and candlelight ambiance. We loved the farmland loop with 360-degree views and sightings of sheep, cows and wild deer. ”

Kayly Barks- 2025-05-12

20 / 20

“ Goodwood Heights was perfect for a relaxing 'offline' weekend! With walks around the farm straight from the door and a coastal reserve a short drive away. The hut has a cosy fire and easy to use hot tub which was perfect on our rainy autumnal weekend! ”

Freya Butler- 2026-04-21

1 / 20

“ We loved the hut, especially the small touches like the lovely seats, the marshmallows, the blankets, and even the tiles on the toilet floor! We sat outside both nights to enjoy the views and the hot tub, and the brazier. Listening to the deer roaring, the sheep, and even the possums was really special. We are used to going outside to the loo (our house has our room on the top floor, but no internal access to it from the main house), so we didn't mind that bit, and the outdoor shower was actually really good. We timed our stay well with warmish weather. The kitchen is well equipped and similar to the facilities we offer at our camp area in our orchard, so we felt at home. The firewood is so good! ”

Trent Wilson- 2026-04-15

2 / 20

“ We loved our stay at Goodwood Heights, the view is so beautiful and the hot tub watching the stars at night was so romantic. Would love to book again. ”

Penelope Edgar- 2026-03-25

3 / 20

“ Goodwood Heights was fantastic. In a great setting, really peaceful. Even the outside shower was great. It had everything we needed for a short break. ”

Sarah Barham- 2026-02-24

4 / 20

“ Great location and facilities. Clean and tidy, and amazing communication from the host. ”

Melissa Martin- 2026-02-09

5 / 20

“ Goodwood Heights Hut was perfect for my four day get away. The host had wonderful communication and everything was very clear and easeful. You are a short drive from the coast, while being nestled into a gorgeous farm valley. The hot tub was excellent, and very easy to use. Highly recommend. Thank you! ”

Sinomi Hood- 2026-01-17

6 / 20

“ We had such a wonderful, relaxing stay. The cabin is in a beautiful setting, and the facilities were perfect for a weekend away in nature. ”

Lucy Dunning- 2026-01-14

7 / 20

“ We stayed two nights and really relished being away from everything. The tub was divine! Thanks. ”

Josh Aberhart- 2026-01-05

8 / 20

“ The perfect simple getaway for two. Loved the outdoor cooking area. The marshmallows and cooking tools were a nice addition. We had no plans for the area but ended up finding a walk to a beach with heaps of seals. It was amazing. A bit of shopping in Palmerston and Waikouaiti was nice too. Thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. ”

Renee Templeton- 2025-12-12

9 / 20

“ What an amazing wee spot Goodwood Heights is. I have already recommended it to anyone that will listen since we’ve been home. Clean, tidy, and great views, with everything you need. It is not too far away from local amenities and attractions and is easy enough just to stay there and relax. ”

Nicola Nimo- 2025-11-30

10 / 20

“ We had a lovely stay at Goodwood Heights. Great location secluded on the back of a farm with a nice view, amazing amenities and great communication from the host. Hopefully we will be able to visit again in future! ”

Willem van der Kaag- 2025-11-11

11 / 20

“ Beautiful, quiet wee spot. We were there in spring, so there were lots of lambs and ducklings to keep us entertained as well as frogs at night. ”

Christopher Wilson- 2025-10-28

12 / 20

“ Thoroughly enjoyed our stay. So nice to reset. Great host service also. ”

Danni Arthur- 2025-10-13

13 / 20

“ A wonderful place to stay with lovely sunrises. ”

Karen Grubb- 2025-08-17

14 / 20

“ Loved it, very welcoming. ”

Wayne Richardson- 2025-07-13

15 / 20

“ The perfect getaway! ”

Joshua Taylor- 2025-07-06

16 / 20

“ Lovely hosts with exceptional communication. Even offered us their vehicle for access, which was needed and so helpful. Beautiful view and setting. We had the most relaxing time and will return. ”

Joy Smythe- 2025-07-06

17 / 20

“ Sensational secret hideaway. If you are looking for peace and serenity, this is the place. Stargazers will be amazed with the view from the hot tub. You even get your own car. Fantastic. ”

Dave Bratton- 2025-05-26

18 / 20

“ Facilities and location were as described and very enjoyable. ”

Jeff Clamp- 2025-05-19

19 / 20

“ Goodwill Heights is a camper's oasis, with simple but thoughtful luxuries like an outdoor kitchen, spa pool under the stars and candlelight ambiance. We loved the farmland loop with 360-degree views and sightings of sheep, cows and wild deer. ”

Kayly Barks- 2025-05-12

20 / 20

“ Goodwood Heights was perfect for a relaxing 'offline' weekend! With walks around the farm straight from the door and a coastal reserve a short drive away. The hut has a cosy fire and easy to use hot tub which was perfect on our rainy autumnal weekend! ”

Freya Butler- 2026-04-21

1 / 20

Scenic coastal landscape viewed through a golden tent opening, showing lush green hillside with forest line meeting turquoise ocean waters under clear blue sky

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