Idyllic Mill Cottage was built in 1852, next to Grehan Stream and the site of the first water-driven flour Mill in the South Island. Now beautifully restored, it is a blend of history and modern comfort amid a large tranquil garden filled with native birdsong. Nestled among trees and overlooking the stream is a sauna, spa pool and outdoor shower. Enjoy nature from the balcony with a BBQ or cosy-up inside next to the fire. Just a 12-min scenic stroll to the Akaroa Village eateries and seaside. The Cottage Indoors: Well-Equipped Kitchen: Ideal for cooking on holiday, with electric hot plates, small oven, dishwasher, dining table and fireside area. Peaceful Lounge and wrap-around Balcony: A separate lounge room with French doors opens onto a large balcony featuring comfy outdoor chairs, a dining table, and a double beanbag. Perfect for relaxing in the garden or firing-up the Weber gas BBQ for al fresco dining. Wood-Burner: a wood basket at your back door will be stocked with wood and kindling for your stay. Bedrooms: The main bedroom with a queen bed is on the ground floor. Accessible by steep stairs, an additional bedroom offers two single beds. Bathroom: Shower room with heated towel rail linked to the main bedroom, and a separate toilet room. TV: streams Netflix, Disney, Prime, TVNZ Outdoors: Hot Tub, Sauna & Outdoor Shower : Enjoy a private area in the trees with a spa, sauna, and warm water shower overlooking the stream. For the adventurous, try a cold-water soak in the stream. The Garden and Grounds: are extensive with plenty of nooks to explore or enjoy a picnic. Parking & Re-charging EV's: Plenty of on-site parking available. For EV's there is a recharger (Wallbox Pulsar Pro) that guests can arrange to access with their host. Hiking & Wildlife: Hiking trails are just up the country road on the hills behind the cottage offering birdwatching, views of Banks Peninsula's ancient volcanic geology and breathtaking Akaroa harbour sea views.

Graeme and I recently returned home to New Zealand, won over by the wild beauty of the Banks Peninsula area and all the outdoor adventures on both land and sea here. We are passionate about native bird and wildlife conservation and have just signed up to do volunteer work with Pest Free Banks Peninsula. Otherwise, we enjoy the local hiking, kayaking and gardening in the park-like grounds where both our house and Mill Cottage is located in Akaroa.

Activities in our Neighborhood: We live in a highly regarded area of natural beauty - with an abundance of native bird life, the home of the Hectors Dolphin (one of the smallest and rarest dolphins in the world) and the location for the world famous 'Banks Track' (a 3-Day Walk). The whole area around Akaroa is a Hikers/Walkers playground. Walking Tracks near the Cottage: 1. Woodills Track: (access from our road) A popular half-day loop walk starting from Woodills South or Woodills North. It offers stunning views over Akaroa. 2. Skyline Circuit and Misty Peaks: A full-day hike. It provides spectacular views of the harbour and surrounding hills. 3. Children's Bay Farm Walkway: A short walk with beautiful views of Akaroa Harbour. 4. French Cemetery Loops: A short circular walk to the oldest Christian cemetery in the South Island. 5. Garden of Tane: A lovely walk, through native bush and historic sites. Dedicated Conservation Areas and Walks: 1. Purple Peak Curry Reserve: (access from our road) Located at the top of Grehan Valley, this 190-hectare reserve offers magnificent views and diverse flora and fauna and offers a variety of walking tracks 2. Hinewai Reserve: Managed by the Maurice White Native Forest Trust, this reserve is adjacent to Purple Peak Curry Reserve and offers a variety of walking tracks Other Activities/Experiences - both sporty and cultural: - Akaroa Golf Club - scenic 18 hole golf course with stunning views of Akaroa Harbour - Mini Golf - Cinema (called Ethels) - Kayaking & Paddleboarding - E-bike Tours - Night Sky Gazing - Dolphin & Nature Boat Cruises - Scuba Diving and Snorkeling - Wineries - History Tours - Art Galleries & Museum - Onuku Marae