New Zealand - South Island

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At a Glance

A staffed, private four-bedroom villa set on a 36,000-acre sheep station, the Homestead at Flockhill makes a wonderful base from which to explore the Southern Alps.

Indagare Loves

• Stargazing from the spacious hot tub on the terrace
• The farm tour with the excellent local guide, who can demonstrate how the working dogs herd the sheep
• Multi-course, homestyle meals prepare by the superb private chef
• Hiking amidst huge limestone boulders in a beautiful wilderness area that the Dalai Lama called “the spiritual center of the universe”

The Homestead at Flockhill Review

Unveiled in 2022, the Homestead at Flockhill is an exceptional newcomer that can hold its own among New Zealand’s cadre of impeccable “super lodges.” Set on the South Island, Flockhill is just a 1.5-hour drive west of Christchurch and surrounded by alpine wilderness with open fields, rivers, rolling hills and mountains with dramatic views over Lake Pearson.

A single-story takeover villa atop a hill, The Homestead at Flockhill feels like a lavish private home with striking modern interiors that make the most of local wood and limestone. Designed by architect Johnathan Coote, of Warren & Mahoney, with interiors by Jessica Close, it has a strong wow factor, thanks to its cathedral ceilings, walls of windows, exposed timber beams and impressive artwork.

Ideal for both families and small groups of friends, the property has four bedrooms, a living and dining room, a media room and a vast terrace with a pool and hot tub. Bathrooms have soaking tubs overlooking the views. (The four bedrooms are consistent, so you don’t have to worry about one couple getting a better room than another.) Service is warm and polished, with thoughtful touches like small presents at turn down.

Chef Craig Martin, formerly of Annandale, prepares elegant but homey farm-to-table food paired with good local wines. He gets to know guests over their stays and adapts the menus to please a variety of different tastes. He cooks in an open kitchen and is a natural and patient teacher happy to offer a cooking class.

Indagare Tip: Families should request a barbecue night served by a fireplace on the terrace, including homemade marshmallows for roasting.

The privacy is unparalleled, but the real gift of Flockhill is its wide range of outdoor excursions, many of which can be done right on property. Hike through ocher grasses along a ridgeline with vast views amid huge limestone boulders. Take a guided e-bike ride to a waterfall. Paddleboard on Lake Pearson. Fly-fish. And at night, take in the stars from the terrace.

Rates from NZ $18,000 per night, with a two-night minimum.

Who Should Stay

Families and small groups of friends looking for privacy, high-touch service and access to some of the South Island’s most beautiful landscapes.

Author

• Eliza Harris