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The Bearded Poet

Canterbury


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Eating and Drinking

EATING AND DRINKING

The Bearded Poet is self-catering. Just bring your own food and drink, and cook meals using the two-burner cooktop. 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. Two Thumb Brewing Co is a quick 15-minute drive and is known for its use of high-quality, locally sourced beers and tasty food. Orton Bradley Cafe, 15 minutes away, opens its doors every Sunday from 10:00 am to 3:30pm and also accepts takeaway orders every Friday night for delicious pizzas (must order before 1pm). Governor's Bay Pub at Ōtoromiro Hotel is a 25-minute drive, available for lunch and dinner.

The nearest store for stocking up on food and supplies is the Four Square supermarket in Diamond Harbour, 15 minutes away.

Things to Do

THINGS TO DO

At the property, you can explore and swim by the rocky shores just outside the hut, or have some fun with the board games, or cards.

Gather your mussels on the rocky shoreline at low tide for a delicious treat later in the evening. There's also a private track up the hill to a gorgeous lookout point, taking around 20 minutes each way. And if you feel like doing nothing, simply listening to the crashing waves is a lovely way to relax.

Camp Bay Beach is only a 10-minute scenic walk across the farm from the hut. It's a beautiful sandy wave beach, with safe swimming, boogie boarding, and sunbathing areas.

Hike the private Historic Pack Track to the other Bay at Little Port Copper - a 1.5 hour walk each way.*Please note this track is closed from August until November during lambing season.*The track leads to a picturesque beach, where a settlement was built in 1883, with only the Old School House remaining. More info is provided in your welcome guide in the cabin.

Book your ticket with Black Cat Ferry Cruises and travel to the town of Lyttelton, a mere 10-minute trip. from the ferry jetty brings you to the heart of Lyttelton, a town filled with walking tracks, picnic spots, island escapes, quirky cafes, farmers' markets (every Saturday morning until 1pm), playgrounds, and many historical gems. With ferry departures every hour, the journey is both convenient and scenic.'

After your day of adventure, unwind with a long, hot soak in the outdoor bath. With a glass of your favourite drink in hand, let the soothing warmth wash away any lingering tension, leaving you feeling utterly relaxed.

Your Hosts

YOUR HOSTS

Your hosts at The Bearded Poet are Wendy, Alex, and their two young daughters - Indie and Heidi.

Having lived on the property for three years, the family were looking for a change that would ignite their creativity and purpose. Alex, who is a Farmer and Builder by trade, found his perfect match in the historic hut nestled on their land. Meanwhile, Wendy, a Graphic Designer, envisioned a business that incorporated design, marketing, and a purposeful mission.

The Bearded Poet is steeped in history, having been built during the 1930s Depression era. Alex has renovated the hut, turning it into a testament to their journey and a unique charming space for others to enjoy.

TESTIMONIALS

“ Amazing place. The location was fantastic and the host went above and beyond to make our stay perfect, even leaving homemade goodies at the hut. ”

Natalie Muir- 2025-11-29

20 / 20

“ We had the best time soaking in the views and relaxing at The Bearded Poet. The weather was stormy but that didn’t matter. Wendy was great to communicate with. Absolutely loved our stay. ”

Rachel Hoyle- 2026-04-01

1 / 20

“ A very peaceful place to spend a couple of days. ”

Kevin Gainsford- 2026-03-27

2 / 20

“ We were impressed with the restoration work that Wendy and Alex have done on The Bearded Poet. They have done a wonderful job. Very private in superb location. ”

Rosemary Flannery- 2026-03-25

3 / 20

“ Beautiful peaceful setting for a tastefully restored cottage. We had a wonderful stay! ”

Lily Goldblatt- 2026-03-22

4 / 20

“ The escape surroundings, decor and setup create an “opening” for a laid-back, away from the city buzz, and get closer to nature, which is exactly what I am looking for to spend time with my family. ”

Senghong Ho- 2026-03-08

5 / 20

“ In a word, exquisite. In several, authentic, majestic, tasteful, restful, and comfortable. Highly recommend this exceptional hut! ”

Michael Porter- 2026-03-02

6 / 20

“ This is the jewel in the list of amazing places that Canopy Camping has. The attention to the restoration, the seafront setting, the opportunity for onsite adventures, beautiful baking on arrival, and the great people running the show. Hands down, I would recommend this beautiful place. ”

Kellie Coakley- 2026-02-23

7 / 20

“ If you haven’t stayed here, you absolutely should. It’s an amazing little place. ”

Kyle Torkington- 2026-02-21

8 / 20

“ A truly special stay - beautiful views, peaceful privacy, and a private bay to swim in. Collecting mussels and enjoying BBQs made it even better. We left feeling completely relaxed. ”

Elizabeth Bell- 2026-02-15

9 / 20

“ Great experience and the location is outstanding. The perfect getaway. ”

matthew fallow- 2026-02-15

10 / 20

“ This is a beautifully curated cottage in an exceptional location and setting. Wendy and Alex have used their talent and skills to ensure The Bearded Poet stands out amongst it's picture perfect landscape. ”

Jennie Burrell- 2026-02-05

11 / 20

“ Wow, what a fantastic spot, The Bearded Poet felt so secluded and peaceful. Lovely vintage touches in the hut's styling and Wendy had left a gorgeous wee note with some freshly baked cookies and farm eggs. A wonderful way to celebrate our 15th wedding anniversary. Thank you. ”

Esther Buckley- 2026-02-01

12 / 20

“ Wendy and Alex, you have created an absolute gem. Everything was perfect, so well thought out. We could feel the love and consideration that has gone into every aspect of the stay. And we saw dolphins, yay! ”

Harriet Chapman- 2026-01-22

13 / 20

“ Such a beautiful wee escape to celebrate our anniversary and to get engaged! What a surprise, but such a stunning view. It rained most of our time there, but with the fire roaring we were able to stay cosy and use the outdoor bath, which was just perfect with a view of the harbour. Thank you so much for a beautiful escape. ”

Georgina Tuck- 2026-01-21

14 / 20

“ Secluded away from the world with breathtaking scenery, a luxurious and character-filled space within driving distance to a lovely coffee shop. We collected mussels and fish straight from the doorstep, which we prepared while watching the sun go down with a glass of wine. Couldn’t want for more from our honeymoon trip. Can’t wait to go back! ”

Laura Wilson- 2026-01-17

15 / 20

“ Great place to relax and unwind. The accommodation was super clean and comfortable. Our host Wendy had great communication and made us feel very welcome. We would highly recommend to others and would love to go back and stay again in future. ”

Michelle Hoten- 2026-01-10

16 / 20

“ What an incredibly magical spot! It's just amazing having that whole gorgeous bay to yourselves, and the hut is an absolute delight. So much character, views out every window, and a well-equipped kitchen. The bed was comfortable, the outdoor bath is wonderful and somehow (what sorcery is this?!) the outdoor long drop toilet smells like luxury soap products. We loved foraging for delicious mussels and then having a bracing swim to start the day. We brought our e-bikes, and biked over to Port Levy one day, and walked to the old school house another day. The weather wasn't super-great for our visit and it didn't matter one little bit. Great in all weathers. We would love to return. Thanks guys! ”

Catherine Cattanach- 2026-01-05

17 / 20

“ Superb setting, fantastic accommodation, warm and friendly hosts. What more could you ask for. Thank you for a totally memorable, magical stay. ”

Jo Doherty- 2025-12-10

18 / 20

“ This was undoubtedly the most incredible stay that we have ever had. It was perfectly remote and beautiful. Every detail has been thought about. I was blown away by the sea views and beauty of the place. We wish we could have stayed forever. Thank you for the most warm and unique stay. We will remember it forever. ”

Kate Nicola Bolton- 2025-12-06

19 / 20

“ Amazing place. The location was fantastic and the host went above and beyond to make our stay perfect, even leaving homemade goodies at the hut. ”

Natalie Muir- 2025-11-29

20 / 20

“ We had the best time soaking in the views and relaxing at The Bearded Poet. The weather was stormy but that didn’t matter. Wendy was great to communicate with. Absolutely loved our stay. ”

Rachel Hoyle- 2026-04-01

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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