Wild Cattle Hill

Banks Peninsula, Canterbury

Wild Cattle Hill is located in Pigeon Bay on Banks Peninsula, 1-hour and 20 minutes from Christchurch and 30 minutes from Akaroa.

Starting life in the mid-1920s as a simple farm cottage, Wild Cattle Hill is now a beautifully renovated and peaceful haven for couples.

Quaint and cosy, the self-contained cottage has a king-size bed, lounge area, full kitchen (with a dishwasher!) and an indoor bathroom. Outside on a sheltered deck is a BBQ, outdoor seating, lounge chairs and an electric-heated hot tub.

Two opposing decks on either side of the cottage provide two different outlooks. One, the gleaming blue ocean overlooking spectacular Pigeon Bay, and the other, farmland and lush native bush. You may also catch sight of the friendly neighbourhood wood pigeons, fantails and occasional swamp harrier (hawk) soaring amongst the trees.

Wild Cattle Hill is a place to slow down and relax. Enjoy a well-deserved soak in the hot tub, grab a glass of your favourite and let all your worries disappear as you gaze into the depths of the glorious night sky.

The minimum stay for a particular day or date can vary depending on factors such as the day of the week, the time of year and the host's preferences.

The easiest way to check what's available is to use the online calendar for this escape—it’ll show you the current options for your dates.

Please note that the minimum stay rules are set by the host and can’t be adjusted, so we’re not able to make exceptions.

If the stay length doesn’t quite match what you’re after, head to Find Your Escape, enter your check-in date and preferred length of stay, and browse other great options that might be a better fit.

To find out if single nights are available at this escape, check the online calendar and see if your preferred date is available to book.

If this escape isn’t available, head to Find Your Escape, enter your check-in date and length of stay, and browse all one-night options available for that day.

Please note that the minimum stay rules are set by the host and can’t be adjusted, so we’re not able to make exceptions.

The cottage has a fully equipped kitchen with a Fisher and Paykel 402 litre fridge/freezer, dishwasher, microwave, oven with a 4-coil electric hob and small dining table. There is also a Nespresso coffee machine, kettle and toaster.

The drinking water has a Puretec water filter and UV filter.

Hot water is supplied by a gas califont.

There is also a Weber BBQ and outdoor dining table on the sheltered deck just outside.

All the pots, pans and utensils you'll need for cooking and eating are provided.

Some pantry basics are supplied - salt, pepper, olive oil, blue-top milk, English breakfast tea, instant coffee and Nespresso capsules. Ice is supplied in the freezer.

Access to the cottage is up a driveway.

You'll be able to park right outside the cottage and you're welcome to come and go from the property as much as you like. There is also room to park a boat or trailer.

Please note that Google Maps directions are not accurate, so please follow our instructions carefully. It's important you take SH75 as this is the safest route. Continue on the tar-sealed Summit Road until you reach the Pigeon Bay turnoff, which is clearly signposted.

Do not follow the fastest route on Google Maps, as this takes you via Middle Road and is only suitable for experienced 4WD drivers (it's a shingle road).

Wild Cattle Hill is set on a working sheep and beef farm, so for the safety of all concerned, it’s very important to follow the safety guidelines and terms that you’ll find in our booking terms and in the guest guide at the cottage. These terms and guidelines include:

Visitors stay at their own risk, this is a working farm with hazards both farm-related (ie. machinery and animals) and natural.
Leave gates as you find them.
Animals are unpredictable - best to avoid them.
Extreme caution driving in and out of the property - speed limit on the property is 15km p/h.
Supervise young children carefully. There are specific water hazards for young children on the property - for example, water troughs and streams.
For your own safety please do not touch any farm machinery, and do not enter the woolshed or other buildings on the property.
Be careful of the electric fences, barbed wire and native stringing nettles (onga onga)
The bluffs are some distance away but should not be climbed.

There is also a small creek 150m away from the property, which only runs over winter.

The minimum stay for a particular day or date can vary depending on factors such as the day of the week, the time of year and the host's preferences.

The easiest way to check what's available is to use the online calendar for this escape—it’ll show you the current options for your dates.

Please note that the minimum stay rules are set by the host and can’t be adjusted, so we’re not able to make exceptions.

To find out if single nights are available at this escape, check the online calendar and see if your preferred date is available to book.

If this escape isn’t available, head to Find Your Escape, enter your check-in date and length of stay, and browse all one-night options available for that day.

Please note that the minimum stay rules are set by the host and can’t be adjusted, so we’re not able to make exceptions.

We've teamed up with Gift Box company 'XO' to bring you a 'special treat' gift box to celebrate those special occasions. The Connection Gift Box features a bottle of Cloudy Bay Pelorus Brut sparkling wine, 'Bubbly Bears' deluxe sweets, a speciality chocolate bar from the House of Chocolate, and pack of 'Deeper Questions' conversation cards - all beautifully presented in a black gift box with tissue paper and an optional handwritten note. Order your Connection Gift Box now, and it will be waiting for you on arrival.

Please note: Gift Boxes are sent 15 days before your arrival date to ensure timely delivery. If you cancel your stay within this time frame, the cost of the Gift Box will not be refunded.

**1.1** Canopy Camping Limited (**Canopy Camping Escapes**, also referred to as **we**, **our** and **us**) has a curated collection of unique nature-based properties throughout New Zealand, independently owned and operated by individual owners of the properties (**Hosts**). **1.2** By making a booking through our website ([here](https://www.canopycamping.co.nz/)) (**Website**), you, as the person making the booking, agree to be bound by these terms and conditions (**Booking Conditions**). **1.3** Canopy Camping Escapes enters into these Booking Conditions as an agent for the Host. That means that you are making an agreement with the Host for the use of its property. Anything Canopy Camping Escapes does (including enforcing any of the Host’s rights), it does so as agent for the Host and is not a party to your agreement with the Host. **1.4** In these terms: - “Day” means a period of 24 hours; and - “check-in time” means the check-in time specified [in the booking confirmation email we send you / specified on the Website for the property you have booked]

**2.1** If you book within 28 Days of your check-in time, full payment via credit or debit card (VISA/Mastercard) is required at the time of booking. If you book more than 28 Days prior to your check-in time, a deposit of 10% is required to confirm your booking and secure the property. This will be charged to your credit or debit card (VISA/Mastercard) at the time of booking. A credit or debit card (VISA/Mastercard) payment surcharge of up to 2.1% will be applied to all credit or debit card (VISA/Mastercard) payments. **2.2** Bookings are considered confirmed once you have made your online booking and payment and we have sent an email to the address provided to us which confirms both the payment and your booking details. If you do not receive a confirmation email, please contact us as soon as possible. However, we (as agent for the Host) reserve the right to cancel any booking within 12 Days of the confirmation email where we discover that you, or any of your guests, has previously breached these Booking Conditions in relation to a previous booking. In that case, you will receive an email advising you that the booking has been declined, and the full amount paid by you at the time of booking will be refunded to the credit or debit card (VISA/Mastercard) you provided during the booking process. **2.3** If you book more than 28 Days prior to your check-in time, the remaining balance of your stay will be due 28 Days prior to your check in time. An email reminder will be sent to you at this time requesting payment for the outstanding balance. The reminder email gives you the option to pay the remaining balance by A2A (Internet Banking) or credit or debit card (VISA/Mastercard). If your payment has not been received within 24 hours, the remaining balance will automatically be charged to the credit or debit card (VISA/Mastercard) used at the time of booking. Please note: a 2.1% credit or debit card (VISA/Mastercard) payment surcharge is applied to all payments made by credit or debit card (VISA/Mastercard). Credit/Debit Card data is held in a secure and encrypted environment. **2.4** If any amount is not paid when due, you will forfeit your deposit and your booking will be cancelled.

**3.1** Your 10% deposit (or 10% of the value of your stay if you have paid in full) is non-refundable, however it can be transferred to another booking made within 12 months of the date of confirmation of your original booking, if you cancel your stay more than 21 Days prior to your check-in time. **3.2** Cancellation or date changes by you that are between 3 and 21 Days prior to your check-in time will result in 50% of the total cost of your stay being charged. Cancellation or date changes made 3 Days (72 hours) or less prior to your check-in time will result in 100% of the total cost of your stay being charged. **3.3** Date changes made more than 21 Days prior to your check-in time are allowed without forfeit of any amounts paid. **3.4** Force Majeure You are entitled to a full refund if you need to cancel for the following reasons: - **Road closure**. If at 1pm on the day before your arrival, a road on your route to your accommodation is designated by [Waka Kotahi](https://www.nzta.govt.nz/) as closed or for essential travel only, and there is no detour, or the detour adds more than two hours to your travel according to the Waka Kotahi Journey Planner. - **Metservice RED Weather Warning.** If at 1pm on the day before your arrival, the [Metservice](https://www.metservice.com/) has issued a RED warning/forecast in either your home region or the region of your accommodation, for either the day of your arrival or departure. - **Natural disasters in New Zealand.** Natural disasters such as cyclones, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, tsunamis, and other severe and abnormal natural events causing large scale disruption of essential services and/or transport, specifically impacting your travel to or from your accommodation.

**4.1** Exceptional or unforeseen circumstance Hosts reserve the right to cancel a booking at any time in the event of exceptional or unforeseen circumstances. This right will only be exercised in good faith and in exceptional circumstances such as: (a) Any alteration to the property or its surroundings which may pose a safety risk for the guest. (b) Unexpected damage or destruction at the property. (c) A death in the Host family. (d) Our relationship with the Host ends for any other reason. In the unlikely event a Host cancels under this clause, the guest may elect to receive a full refund or to credit the booking to another available date or Escape. The Host’s liability will be limited to the refund of amounts paid for any part of your stay that is cancelled. **4.2** Cancellation for breach Hosts may terminate a booking at any time if they, or we, reasonably believe that there is, or has been, a breach of these Booking Conditions by you or any guest or visitor. Where a Host cancels under this clause, all amounts paid are forfeited and, where such termination occurs during the rental period, you and all guests and visitors must immediately leave the property.

**5.1** Accommodation is often situated on working farms and there are hazards both natural and man-made. You accept that you, and any guests or visitors, enter the property at your own risk. 5.2 Participation by you and any guests or visitors in activities, such as, outdoor baths, climbing trees, walking on the property and any other activity on the property, is done so at your and their own risk. **5.3** To the extent permitted by law, neither we nor the Host accept any liability for accident, loss of property or personal injury during your stay.

**9.1** Guests have a licence to occupy the Property for the paid holiday period only. You are responsible for ensuring that you and they arrive no earlier than the check-in date, and leave no later than the check-out time, specified on the Website. **9.2** You are required to, and must ensure that all guests and any approved day visitors, observe the rules and procedures in relation to the property: - Specified on the Website. - Contained in the information folder provided at the property. **9.3** You must, and must ensure that all guests and any approved visitors, take all reasonable and proper care of the property and its furniture, fittings and effects and leave them in the same state of repair, condition, cleanliness and tidiness as at the commencement of the rental period. Where the property has not been left in the same state of repair, condition, cleanliness and tidiness as at the commencement of the rental period, you will be required to pay an additional cleaning cost of $100 which may be charged to the credit or debit card used at the time of booking. **9.4** You are required to inform Canopy Camping Escapes of any damage or breakage occurring during the rental period in or around the property promptly so that it can be repaired and replaced for the next booking. You must reimburse the Host for the reasonable costs of replacement or repair of any damage caused by you or any guests or visitors and such costs may be charged to the credit or debit card (VISA/Mastercard) used at the time of booking. **9.5** You must ensure that any access information in relation to a property (including any access codes, location of keys, etc) is kept confidential and not disclosed to any person. **9.6** Smoking is not permitted anywhere on the properties. **9.7**The Host may access the property during the rental period to the extent reasonably necessary to undertake repairs or replacement or where we or the Host have reason to believe these Booking Terms are not being complied with. **9.8**The number of guests staying at the Escape overnight must be the same as the number of guests included in the booking. Any day visitors must be approved by the Host prior to your stay. No overnight visitors are permitted. **9.9**You and all guests and any approved day visitors must behave in a proper, appropriate and legal manner with due respect to the Host, the Property, other guests and neighbouring properties and neighbours, and Canopy Camping Escapes’ staff and representatives.

If you encounter any issues or problems during your stay, you must first contact the Host to try to resolve the issue. The Host should be given the opportunity to address and fix the problem before any further steps are taken. If you decide to leave the accommodation early due to an issue without first contacting the Host to resolve it, you will not be entitled to compensation. Essentially, if you don’t give the Host a chance to fix the problem, you cannot expect financial reimbursement for leaving early. If you have a complaint that you'd like to alert Canopy Camping Escapes about after your stay, please contact us promptly at [\[email protected\]](/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection) with details of the complaint. As an agent, we will be the initial contact between you and the Host but may need to put you in direct contact to resolve any issues.

To the extent permitted by law, as agent for the Hosts, we have no liability, to you or any other person, in contract, tort (including negligence) or otherwise: - for the acts or omissions of the Hosts; or - under or in relation to these Booking Conditions or your stay, Your rights are against the Host, not Canopy Camping Escapes. If, for any reason, Canopy Camping Escapes has any liability to you under or in relation to these Booking Terms or your stay, to the extent permitted by law, our liability is limited to the 20% of the amount paid by you in relation to the relevant booking. Any liability the Host has to you under or in relation to these Booking Conditions or your stay is, to the extent permitted by law, limited to refund of amounts paid by you for the relevant booking and shall not extend to any other costs or loss incurred by you or any guest or other person.

As the person who completes the Booking Form, you certify that all information provided is true, accurate and correct and that you: are authorised to agree to the Booking Conditions on behalf of all persons included in the Booking Form, including those substituted or added at a later date; are over eighteen years of age; agree to take responsibility for the party occupying the Property and shall ensure that they (and any approved visitors) comply with these Booking Conditions; and will notify us if you are not present at the property for the rental period.

EATING AND DRINKING

Wild Cattle Hill is self-catering. Just bring your own food and drink, and cook meals using the facilities provided in your cottage kitchen. You'll find all the cutlery, crockery, pots, and pans that you'll need.

If you want a break from cooking at any stage, Akaroa is just a 30-minute drive away, and you'll have plenty to choose from there, such as Mandala Restaurant and Bully Hayes.

The closest place for supplies is the 4-Square in Akaroa. The town also has some fantastic alternative food outlets, like the local butcher and deli.

THINGS TO DO

Wild Cattle Hill is close to the action for people wanting to visit the sights of Akaroa, but it is also a great place to simply unwind. Your visit can be as action-packed or as relaxing as you choose.

If you’re keen on a scenic walk, there are plenty of walks in the surrounding area. The Pigeon Bay Walkway is a 3.5-hour walk around the headlands (only open during the summer season). The Hay Scenic Walk Reserve walk is 30 minutes through the ancient forest. Both are relatively flat and easy to walk. Montgomery Scenic Reserve****is located near the Hilltop, a 2-hour walk inclining up through grasslands until you reach Montgomery Peak with spectacular harbour views.

The Pigeon Bay region also offers boating, paddleboarding, kayaking and diving. A great place for a bit of adventure, as well as a picnic on a sunny day.

Head out for a day trip to Akaroa, where you will find plenty of shops, restaurants and cafes. The popular Akaroa Dolphin Harbour Cruiseis a great choice if you want to get out on the water and see some wildlife.

Enjoy your stay at Wild Cattle Hill by soaking in the outdoor hot tub, playing a few board games next to the cosy fire, or getting active with a game of Pétanque on the lawn.

YOUR HOSTS

Your hosts at Wild Cattle Hill are Jo, Andy and their loyal working dogs Bandit, Chief, Ed, Gunner and Tiger.

Jo and Andy love their stunning Banks Pennisula farm for its tranquillity and dynamic landscapes. It is a special part of Andy’s family history as it was purchased by his parents in the late 80s and became a home for Andy and his siblings growing up.

After travelling and working overseas for a few years post-university, Andy and Jo bought a house in Akaroa. Jo started and ran a cafe in Akaroa for the next 12 years, while Andy was close enough to commute to work on the farm again. In 2009, they permanently moved to the farm.

The cottage, now known as Wild Cattle Hill, was built in 1926 for the owners while the homestead was being built. In the recent decade, it had been uninhabited after the Canterbury earthquake struck. They decided to take action and undertake a full-blown renovation to bring the building back to life.

Wild Cattle Hill is the geographical name of the hill just behind the cottage.

TESTIMONIALS

“ The cottage was beautifully maintained and clean, and the extra touches (fresh flowers and homemade cookies) made us feel welcome. ”

Holly Weale- 2025-11-21

20 / 20

“ Absolutely beautiful spot, immaculate accommodation and fantastic proximity to surrounding areas. The picnic spot was breathtaking! ”

Chris Wong- 2026-05-25

1 / 20

“ We loved our stay. The host is very generous and we had everything we needed and more. Highly recommend this absolutely beautiful cottage to stay in. You will not be disappointed. ”

Audrey Henderson- 2026-05-23

2 / 20

“ A very beautiful spot to spend the weekend, stunning views to watch the sunset with a soak in the hot tub. A comfy bed and cosy cottage, it refilled our cup for the week! Very welcoming hosts and delicious cookies! Thank you. ”

Alex Brand- 2026-05-05

3 / 20

“ We had an amazing few days at this awesome little cottage in paradise! We really enjoyed the peacefulness of the location and just loved the extra little touches, the cookies, the roses, the chocolate and having everything we needed and more. ”

Fiona Giles- 2026-04-28

4 / 20

“ A wonderful ,relaxed, stylish, comfortable place. A wow setting and everything we needed to enjoy our stay. Thank you. ”

Richard Law- 2026-04-25

5 / 20

“ This was the most beautiful place for a relaxing and refreshing get away. We loved the attention to detail in the welcome and the whole set-up of the cottage. It is one of the best ones we have stayed in. We will definitely be coming back. ”

Marina Krijgsman- 2026-04-21

6 / 20

“ A stay at Wild Cattle Hill is not to be missed. The cottage is very roomy and the décor is beautiful. The view is amazing and it is such a nice place to completely unwind. ”

Cherie Kennelly- 2026-04-13

7 / 20

“ Wild Cattle Hill was exactly as described and more! We felt at home right away. After a stressful day travelling it was such a welcome relief to arrive in such beautiful surroundings inside and out! The house is lovely, the views are amazing and everything was so spot on! Highly recommend! ”

Tracy Morrow- 2026-04-01

8 / 20

“ Really enjoyed our stay at Wild Cattle Hill. The views are amazing, the house has all the comforts you need, and the little extra touches from Jo of homebaking and fresh eggs for breakfast were just the cherry on top! ”

Roxanne Pickford- 2026-03-12

9 / 20

“ A super getaway location or a base to explore Banks Peninsula. Very well-appointed accommodation and a secluded place to enjoy the view from the hot tub. Lovely touches, fresh eggs and home-made cookies. ”

Jane Coleman- 2026-02-27

10 / 20

“ ”

Simon Wing- 2026-02-11

11 / 20

“ We loved our stay at Wild Cattle Hill. The setting is stunning and the cottage is absolutely beautiful and super comfortable. The hot tub is amazing! We had such an amazing relaxing time! ”

Brianna Yaakoup- 2026-02-09

12 / 20

“ We absolutely loved our stay at Wild Cattle Hill. The overall cleanliness was outstanding and everything had been thought of to provide a lovely, relaxing stay. The hosts were lovely and gave us fresh cookies and eggs. Views were 10/10. Awesome location to charge the batteries and escape reality! ”

Emily Kenning- 2026-02-09

13 / 20

“ We loved our stay here. Lovely setting and very clean with all the amenities you could need! ”

Kayla Waters- 2026-02-06

14 / 20

“ We really enjoyed our stay here. Couldn’t fault anything and the views were insane! ”

Matthew Miller- 2026-01-14

15 / 20

“ Beautiful wee cottage, it was beautifully decorated and very clean & tidy. Totally private, felt like you were in the middle of nowhere but with all the nicest facilities available! ”

Maree Blair- 2025-12-10

16 / 20

“ We found the cottage immaculately prepared, cosy and very comfortable. We enjoyed the thoughtfully renovated decor and welcoming touches such as a handwritten note from Jo, coffee pods and delicious homemade cookies. Its location in a high spot on the farm is secluded and perfect for a weekend retreat. Sitting in the hot tub on the deck, soaking up the sights and sounds of birdsong, farm animals, and sweeping views across the bay and surrounding farmland, was pure contentment. We recommend the Hay Reserve in Pigeon Bay, with its playful fantails and magnificent ancient trees, and a stroll around the waterfront to the wharf to further experience the beauty and history of the area. This is a magical spot which left us feeling relaxed and ready to come back again. ”

Paula Rippon- 2025-12-07

17 / 20

“ A truly amazing place to stay. We didn’t want to leave. The views, the hot pool, the great kitchen facilities, the bird song and the tranquility all made for a relaxing few days. Will definitely be back to enjoy again. ”

Rebecca Burdett- 2025-12-03

18 / 20

“ It was a great stay. We were so happy. Us and nature. ”

Merce Domenech- 2025-11-30

19 / 20

“ The cottage was beautifully maintained and clean, and the extra touches (fresh flowers and homemade cookies) made us feel welcome. ”

Holly Weale- 2025-11-21

20 / 20

“ Absolutely beautiful spot, immaculate accommodation and fantastic proximity to surrounding areas. The picnic spot was breathtaking! ”

Chris Wong- 2026-05-25

1 / 20

BROWSE OUR COLLECTION

Relax. Unplug. Savour a unique holiday experience. A secret weekend escape.

A family holiday.

Whatever the reason, let nature back in – go glamping!

Find your escape

Wild Cattle Hill

GETTING THERE

FAQS

RATES AND EXTRAS

BOOKING TERMS

ADDRESS

DIRECTIONS

EATING AND DRINKING

THINGS TO DO

YOUR HOSTS

TESTIMONIALS

BROWSE OUR COLLECTION