Glenwood Akaroa Bush Retreat

is nestled in the hillside above the French settlement of Akaroa in expansive native bush with abundant animal and bird life. Totara Hut opened in August 2022 and is a cosy self-contained hut with amazing views of Akaroa Harbour. Kanuka Hut opened in November 2022 and is a solar powered, off-grid Hut, nestled in the native bush. Passionate about protecting and regenerating the surrounding native bush we placed a large portion of Glenwood under QEII Trust Covenant in 2018 – a lifetime covenant is our way of protecting this beautiful land. We take many steps to be sustainable and gentler on our environment. Our toilets are composting, reducing our water consumption, and keeping pollutants out of the waterways. Recycling, reducing the use of plastics, utilising eco-friendly products, and carrying out our native planting program outside of the QEII Trust area around the property are other ways in which we enhance and protect this special place. Akaroa township is a 5-minute drive back down Grehan Valley and you can enjoy the many cafes, eateries, and boutique shops it has to offer. Or just explore the magic of the area right here at Glenwood. Fabulous private walks take you across flowing creeks, through the ‘Enchanted Forest’, down to our very own waterfall (take a picnic), and right up to the highest point of Glenwood for wonderful views of Akaroa Harbour.

Glenwood History

We purchased Glenwood late in 2015 as a retirement project with the intention of restoring the old homestead, whare and school building, to retain the properties rich history. The original farmhouse was built in the early 1870’s by the Curry family and was occupied up until the September 2010/ February 2011 earthquakes when the sole resident at that time, Mrs. May Curry in her nineties, left the family home due to damage caused. The main farm income was derived from producing butter and cheese. A room in the house was designated for the cheese. The cow yard is believed to be the first cobbled yard on the Peninsula, with rocks brought in with draft horse and sledge. Our proximity to the Hinewai Reserve, and Purple Peak Curry Tracks are to be appreciated. Dr Hugh Wilson has been instrumental in his passion for the conservation of the flora and fauna on Banks Peninsula. There are an assortment of animals on the property both wild and tame, including a wide variety of birds, and many hidden faunae in the bush and undergrowth. Wiltshire sheep manage the grass. Inherited Grey Lag geese and ducks. Our much-loved Labrador dogs and ginger cat (a most efficient rat catcher). Glenwood is not to be missed for its stunning views and seclusion. The ambiance which attracted us here, we welcome you to share during your stay in Totara Hut, and soon, Kanuka Hut. We look forward to you staying with us soon, Ken & Jenny.

Huts

If you would like to book directly, please call or email us with the dates you would like to stay, and we will confirm these for you. By clicking 'Book Now' you will be taken to the booking.com site which will show you our current available dates.
A cosy and modern self-contained studio unit with ensuite. Water and power are connected to this site, with a composting toilet in the ensuite.
Our off-grid hut option is nestled in the native bush. A moderate 5 minute walk from the car park, or accessed by your 4WD SUV-type vehicle. Running on solar power, this hut has a generous covered deck and is surrounded by birdsong. The perfect way to get back to nature.

Guest Reviews

See what our Guests have had to say about their experience at Glenwood Akaroa
★★★★★ Totara Hut
"Great instructions on how to get there. We enjoyed everything, a warm cosy cabin, beautiful scenery, fun walks, the waterfall was so pretty, the owners were lovely. It is like a little piece of heaven tucked away in nature with the most beautiful view and perfect when you want to get away for a couples weekend. The facilities were amazing and unlike many places we have stayed the bed was very comfortable. Honestly 10/10 we will definitely be going back."
Kristie D
★★★★★ Totara Hut
"Totara Hut was just what we needed for a break away from the everyday stressors. Our stay was really comfortable, and the walkways and views were amazing, we will be back!"
Carl L
★★★★★ Totara Hut
"Private and nestled into a rural setting a stones throw from central Akaroa with amazing views over the bay. Easy contactless access. Very clean and tidy, modern, and eco-friendly with everything you need for a short stay. breakfast was supplied which was more than enough and we loved the little treat basket. Happy to stay again."
Dennis
★★★★★ Totara Hut
"Wonderful location high above the township of Akaroa but still with easy access to go for dinner. A wonderful walk that includes a super cute waterfall. The cabin is modern with a great bed looking out over the view. Would highly recommend this to anyone wanting a private retreat."
Crannie
★★★★★ Totara Hut
"Such a gorgeous wee set up, can't recommend this enough. Absolutely stunning location."
Bridget W
★★★★★ Kanuka Hut
"The spot is so secluded peaceful and private it was hard to leave. The perfect getaway, we definitely recommend and would love to come back."
Stacee

Looking To Switch Off And Get Back To Nature?

Book your stay today! Call or email to book directly with us.

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