Wild Cattle Hill

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 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.

FROM $320 p/n

  • Sleeps 2

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Wild Cattle Hill

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  • 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 Cruise is 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

  • "

    A beautiful, cosy cottage in an amazing setting. We loved stargazing from the hot tub on the deck and warming by the fire. The little extras of eggs, limes, milk and cookies were thoughtful touches. We are already recommending this place to our friends.

    "

    Louise Dennis - 26 Apr 2025

    1 / 12

  • "

    Felt very private. The hot tub was great, overlooking the hills. Nice outdoor seating facilities. Very cosy, and the decorations and furniture fit the vibe. The modern kitchen facilities with a dishwasher are definitely a game changer.

    "

    Luke Drummond - 09 Apr 2025

    2 / 12

  • "

    Beautiful place to stay, so clean and tidy. Would definitely come stay again.

    "

    Hayley Griffin - 25 Mar 2025

    3 / 12

  • "

    We had a fantastic and relaxing stay! We are hopeful to return every year. The facilities were lovely and spacious, and there were eggs and homemade biscuits left by the hosts, which was so kind. 10/10.

    "

    Amanda Taylor - 20 Mar 2025

    4 / 12

  • "

    It’s fair to say that the cottage and experience exceeded our expectations. Wild Cattle Hill provided the perfect place for us to escape, relax and recharge! We really enjoyed the solitude, setting and comfort.

    "

    Peter Anderson - 18 Mar 2025

    5 / 12

  • "

    Ok… Absolutely a secluded spot with magnificent views and the perfect place to enjoy with all the amenities. Loved the homemade cookies! The walk to the viewing picnic table was next level amazing! Highly recommend your beautiful place to sit back and relax, and the electric hot tub was perfect… just turn up and enjoy!

    "

    Tanya Pulford - 07 Mar 2025

    6 / 12

  • "

    Amazing location which is isolated and private. Property was clean, detailed focus and all the amenities you could hope for.

    "

    Alex Seales - 28 Feb 2025

    7 / 12

  • "

    A well presented quaint cottage, nestled in a perfect spot. Some lovely personal touches by the host, and the most comfortable short break away we could have asked for. Thank you, highly recommended!

    "

    Chris Vere - 24 Feb 2025

    8 / 12

  • "

    This was such a fantastic wee getaway from Christchurch for a special birthday treat. Lovely atmosphere, hosts extremely responsive to any questions asked. Lovely setting, beautiful views, amazing hot tub, great books and games. Great facilities all round. Shame the Pigeon Bay walk wasn't open, but we found plenty of other things to do. Highly recommend. Thanks!

    "

    Tisha Bradley - 23 Feb 2025

    9 / 12

  • "

    We have stayed in places all over the world. This would have to be right up there with the best. Breathtakingly beautiful and a little piece of paradise.

    "

    CHERYL JAMES - 22 Feb 2025

    10 / 12

  • "

    Remarkable place in and stunning location. Was utter bliss staying here. Thank you!!

    "

    Zack Bennett - 18 Feb 2025

    11 / 12

  • "

    This was probably the best place that we've ever stayed at! Surrounded by wildlife, ocean view, and no external interferences with our stay! The accommodation was also very cosy, with a few homey touches such as a personalised note and delicious cookies! Highly recommend, and we'll be back for sure!

    "

    Tiaan Bam - 04 Feb 2025

    12 / 12

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