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Sophie's

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Sophie's

Darfield, Canterbury


Sophie's - Manawa o Waikirikiri, translating to 'heart of the Selwyn' in Te Reo Māori, is 20 minutes from Darfield and just over one hour from Christchurch in Canterbury.

Amidst native bush ferns along the banks of the Selwyn River, Sophie's is a retreat seamlessly integrated with its natural surroundings.

Tucked inside the distinctive curves of your zome—a thoughtfully designed, eco-friendly structure made from interlocking geometric panels—awaits your cosy sanctuary. Drift off in a queen bed with direct views of the treetops framed by the beautiful star-shaped skylight. Soft, neutral tones create a calm atmosphere, while a woodburner keeps things toasty. Just five meters from your door is a sheltered kitchen and bathroom.

Wake to the calls of native birds, such as bellbirds and wood pigeons and in the morning head to the river for a picnic breakfast, followed by a refreshing dip. As the day winds down, savour the magic by toasting marshmallows in the hand-built sunken fire pit area - or indulge in relaxation with a soak in the wood-fired hot tub surrounded by lush greenery.

Immerse yourself in the tranquillity, the rustling river, and the enchantment of a nature-centric escape at Sophie's - Manawa o Waikirikiri.

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Eating and drinking near Escape

EATING AND DRINKING

Sophie's is self-catering. Just bring your food and drink, and cook meals using the two-burner gas stove and an open-fire firepit area provided to prepare your meals. You'll find all the cutlery, crockery, pots and pans that you'll need.

If you fancy dining out, Darfield, 20 minutes away has a variety of enticing options to explore. Take in the alpine views at Terrace Downs while savouring fresh, local cuisine. Grain & Grape is your local hub for exceptional food and drinks. Gunyah Country Estate is a historic building nestled in a picturesque rural setting. Or drive 20 minutes to Hororata to try the famous pies at the Hororata Pie Shop.

The nearest store for stocking up on food and supplies is the Glentunnel Store (it is a small Corner Store yet packed with so many items!)

Things to do near Escape

THINGS TO DO

Sophie's allows you to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life - just a short hop from the city. Immerse yourself in the tranquil natural beauty, surrounded by lush greenery and the gentle murmur of the river.

The zome is a short distance from a popular swimming hole. Head in for a swim! Note that the Selwyn River is open to the public, so you may see or hear others enjoying this natural facility too. If you have a fishing license, the Selwyn River is also a popular fishing option!

Alternatively, stay in the privacy of your campsite and soak up the fresh air and birdsong while soaking in the luxurious wood-fired hot tub, letting your worries melt away.

If you're looking for a scenic nature walk, Washpen Falls (30 minutes away) is a beautiful waterfall that cascades down into a crystal-clear pool, perfect for swimming or simply relaxing and enjoying the scenery. Rakaia Gorge (30 minutes away) is a scenic gorge carved by the Rakaia River, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Castle Hill is 1 hour away, featuring thousands of limestone boulders that have been sculpted by erosion over millions of years.

Terrace Downs Golf Resort (25 minutes away) offers a world-class golfing experience, set against a stunning backdrop of mountains and valleys.

Your hosts at Escape

YOUR HOSTS

Your hosts at Sophie's - Manawa o Waikirikiri are Callum and Ellen.

With their children Arybella and Sophie, and furry friends Huxley and Pidge, they've cherished this riverside haven for seven years. Ellen, a nurse, and Callum, a builder and landscaper, have transformed the property into a beautiful retreat.

Passionate about sharing the beauty they've cultivated, the family was inspired by the joy of glamping and wanted to create something of their own.

Sophie's is named after their second daughter, and the description 'Manawa o Waikirikiri' translates to 'heart of the Selwyn' in Te Reo Māori.

TESTIMONIALS

“ Super lovely and relaxing place! The host was very helpful when we needed some extra help finding our way there haha. Would definitely recommend! ”

Juliette Smith- 2025-08-22

20 / 20

“ Very welcoming and a lovely night away for a special occasion. ”

Emma Chambers- 2026-05-26

1 / 20

“ We loved our stay at Sophie's, it was only for one night, but we felt very relaxed. The setting was magical, with the beautiful lighting all through the trees, and we absolutely loved the fire pit area overlooking the river. Loved the outdoor shower as you felt a little bit naughty, being one with nature. ”

Nicola May- 2026-05-12

2 / 20

“ We absolutely LOVED our stay at Sophie’s! Busy times in our household and it was amazing to duck away for a night in total bliss. Some much needed relaxation! ”

Aimee Elizabeth Tait- 2026-05-05

3 / 20

“ A great spot for our wedding anniversary celebration, with lots of birds singing quietly. Very happy to come back again. ”

shane luzak- 2026-05-02

4 / 20

“ Due to a ferry issue, we were going to get in much later than we had hoped. Our host was incredibly accommodating and even provided us with a very late check out. The location was beautiful, almost like a haven out of a fairy tale. The stream next to our location and the wildlife surrounding it provided us with an amazing experience. ”

Aaron Eechaute-Lopez- 2026-03-30

5 / 20

“ We had such a beautiful and calming stay away. Listening to the water and birdsong was incredibly soothing and truly soul-filling. It was the perfect place to relax and reconnect with each other. The hot tub was an absolute highlight, and the bonfire was amazing — sitting around, chatting, and roasting marshmallows made it extra special. We would absolutely 10/10 recommend this getaway and can’t wait to come back! ”

Jess de Kleijn- 2026-03-30

6 / 20

“ A great stay. ”

TEEGAN O'NEILL- 2026-03-05

7 / 20

“ Awesome place, even though it rained, we had the most amazing stay. So beautiful. ”

George English- 2026-03-03

8 / 20

“ Amazing spot! We absolutely loved it! Clean, tidy and such a great set up. Will definitely go again! ”

Leisa Webster- 2026-02-17

9 / 20

“ We loved our stay. Would 100% go again, it's such a beautiful place. ”

Jessie Longstaffe- 2026-02-04

10 / 20

“ Sophie’s was amazing, the host went above and beyond. ”

Hayden Dowie- 2026-01-30

11 / 20

“ This place is magical, like your own private world. ”

Tracy Fleming- 2026-01-26

12 / 20

“ Blown away by this little haven, such magic tucked away a short distance from urban life. What a treat for all the senses. Saw two shooting stars fireside on our last evening as we listened to the awa rushing by. Birdlife phenomenal, hosts so accommodating, river an amazing swim and soundscape, followed by hot tubs aplenty. Couldn't ask for a better place to escape to be held in deep rest. Will be back. ”

Stacey Young- 2026-01-09

13 / 20

“ My forever happy place. I stayed alone for two nights. Needed for nothing. A mind-blowing, gorgeous, relaxing, and safe place to be in. Nature is everything. Hosts were lovely. Thank you for sharing this with me. ”

Kristie McLachlan- 2026-01-04

14 / 20

“ An amazing break away in a peaceful and beautiful location. ”

Brooke Coffin- 2025-11-11

15 / 20

“ 10/10 recommending this to everyone. ”

Sofia Guillen- 2025-11-05

16 / 20

“ We had a great time and experience at Sophie's. Photos of the zome and camping escape is spectacular. We will surely recommend. ”

JOHANNA NACU- 2025-10-19

17 / 20

“ Sophie's was an amazing spot and everything was so well thought out. A perfect getaway destination to relax and unwind. ”

Ashley Howden- 2025-09-10

18 / 20

“ Absolutely amazing! Loved everything about the place! Spent two nights here and it was blissful! ”

Shannon Church- 2025-09-06

19 / 20

“ Super lovely and relaxing place! The host was very helpful when we needed some extra help finding our way there haha. Would definitely recommend! ”

Juliette Smith- 2025-08-22

20 / 20

“ Very welcoming and a lovely night away for a special occasion. ”

Emma Chambers- 2026-05-26

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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