Tawanui Farm

It is set on a working sheep and beef farm owned by the Loughnan family, who are the fifth generation to have farmed in the Blythe Valley. They farm under regenerative farming practices with a focus on soil and ecosystem health and minimal chemical inputs which ultimately translates to healthy animals. Hosts Tim, Mike and Elspeth take huge pride in showcasing this special pocket of Aotearoa, offering a selection of fun adventure activities including Tawanui ATV farm tours and their other side-business, Energy Jet – a jet boat ride along the Hurunui River (with a special discount for glampers!).

With an open air, gas-heated, hot tub that fit’s eight people, you can balance out the adrenaline with a soothing soak, as you enjoy the starlit evening sky. With two private and cosy lotus belle glamping tent sites, each sleeps up to four guests – and are soon to be replaced with new geodesic domes featuring window views!

Guests get exclusive rights to the site when they book, so it’s perfect for friends or family – as you’ll have your own space and can come together to dine in the solar-powered camp kitchen. There’s a gas stove, hot water and all the crockery, cutlery and pans you’ll need – and the all-important phone charging station.

The glamping experience is self-catered, so guests are responsible for bringing their own food and are encouraged to stock up on local goods from the Ohoka or Amberley Farmers Market. For those who can’t live without a café espresso, Number Eight Café in Cheviot is just 15 minutes away and if you fancy a nice lunch, head 40 minutes south to Waipara to dine at the fabulous Black Estate or Greystone cellar doors.

Wake to the hum of bird song, and if the wind is right, you might even catch the crashing of waves from the east coast. Then set out on for a day of fishing in the Hurunui River, swim at Gore Bay or head off on the Manuka Bay DOC walking track – all just a 10 minute drive from the glamping site.

Tawanui Farm really is the perfect adventure-fuelled oasis, to reset and take stock at the unique and serene North Canterbury location.

The family also sells meat from the farm under the Tawanui Farm brand. Beef and lamb boxes with a wide selection of cuts can be couriered nation-wide and delivered direct to your door. Click here to buy.