Entire home

Historic Cottage in rural Oamaru with farm animals and outdoor baths

Photo gallery for Historic Cottage in rural Oamaru with farm animals and outdoor baths

The accommodation
The private garden section for you to enjoy
The view from above
Bathroom
Bathroom

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 460 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Washer
  • Housekeeping
  • Air conditioning
  • Outdoor space
  • Free WiFi

Explore the area

Map
Oamaru, Oamaru
  • Steampunk HQ
    ‪45 min drive‬
  • Oamaru Harbour
    ‪45 min drive‬
  • Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony
    ‪48 min drive‬
  • Oamaru (OAM)
    ‪58 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

1 bedroom (sleeps 4)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed and 1 Double Sofa Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Spaces

About this property

Historic Cottage in rural Oamaru with farm animals and outdoor baths

The Little Red School house is a great spot to come for a romantic getaway for couples, a country retreat, a farm experience, an artists paradise, a writers lair or a solo trip for stress relief. The accommodation was once a school in the 1920s so while it has historic notions, it also has been sensitively modernized with full kitchen facilities, smart tv, double outdoor baths, queen size bed, free WIFI, heatpump/air conditioner, a washing machine, iron and comes with a free continental breakfast which you can enjoy outdoors on the deck or amongst the large garden setting. The accommodation is located on our 11500 hectare working family farm which runs sheep and beef cattle. The farm is situated over 400m above sea level so has fantastic views of rural landscapes, mountains and the ocean. An early morning or evening walk is amazing for taking in the sunrise or sunset. Our area is the pinnacle of true farm living. If our guests choose, with prior arrangement, they can have a taste of the farming lifestyle with a farm tour/experience as we love to share what we are passionate about as the farm has been in the family for four generations. There is a fantastic water hole close by which is great for swimming in the summertime and our roads/tracks are known for some great bike riding experiences. We have two walking tracks available for guests to use free of charge. You are welcome to meet our menagerie of pets which include horses, pet sheep, pet cows, goat, hens, dogs, cats and help yourself to fresh eggs for breakfast from the hen house (sorry not guaranteed). Or you can simply relax on the deck and enjoy the peace and quiet of country life and absorb the millions of stars on a clear warm evening. A Sky Watcher Telescope for star gazing can be hired for $25 for the duration of your stay. We also offer two dinner options at an additional cost which is either an antipasto platter with local cheeses, cured meats, fruits and pickles or a two course meal if notified within 48 hours of your arrival day.

The seaside township of Oamaru is a 30 minute drive for us offers the famous historic Victorian precinct, great walkways, an aquatic centre, Clarks Mill (historic flour mill with original machinery), Totara Estate (historic farm), Oamarus Prehistoric World, Steampunk HQ, Blue Penguin Colony, Ten Pin Bowling and our famous Whitestone Cheese Store to name a few.

In the other direction we are only a 30 minute drive from Duntroon which is home to the Vanished World Centre and 45 minutes from Kurow which hosts some great wineries. And if biking is your thing, then the Alps to Ocean cycle trial is a must. It starts at Mount Cook (the highest mountain in New Zealand), goes past the great lakes and rivers and ends in Oamaru. We are happy to collect any guests and their bikes from the Duntroon to Oamaru section of this trial.
Special conditions:
- Smoking allowed outside only.
- We have a queen sized bed in the accommodation and a sofa bed. A portacot is available that we can add in the room.
- The farm is a working sheep and beef farm, so we ask guests to stay within the fenced property of the Little Red School house unless they are with us or have our permission once we have advised of any safety hazards.

Extras: Cleaning (included); Linen (included); Breakfast - continental (included)

Due to our rural location we also have a cash mini bar available with items such as wine, cheese, crackers, chips, peanuts, chocolate, frozen pizzas, lasagnas and gourmet pies.

Property manager

Nic
Premier Host

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Washer
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
Outdoor space
Housekeeping

Have a question?

AI iconBeta

Get instant answers with AI powered search of property information and reviews.

House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Check out before 11:00 AM
default

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
default

Events

No events allowed
default

Pets

No pets allowed
default

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
This property uses eco-friendly cleaning products
Host has indicated that there are no carbon monoxide detectors or gas appliances on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit

About the area

Fuchsia Creek

Fuchsia Creek is home to this holiday home. Totara Estate and Totara Estate are local landmarks, and the area's natural beauty can be seen at Oamaru Gardens and Elephant Rocks. Steam Train and Whitestone Cheese Factory are also worth visiting.
Map
Oamaru, Oamaru

What's nearby

  • Steampunk HQ - 45 min drive - 31.8 km
  • Oamaru Victorian Heritage Precinct - 45 min drive - 32.0 km
  • Oamaru Harbour - 45 min drive - 32.2 km
  • Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony - 48 min drive - 33.2 km
  • Moeraki Boulders - 61 min drive - 52.9 km

Frequently asked questions

Is Historic Cottage in rural Oamaru with farm animals and outdoor baths pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at Historic Cottage in rural Oamaru with farm animals and outdoor baths?

As of 15 April 2025, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Historic Cottage in rural Oamaru with farm animals and outdoor baths on 24 April 2025 start from NZ$260.0, excluding taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

What time is check-in at Historic Cottage in rural Oamaru with farm animals and outdoor baths?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Historic Cottage in rural Oamaru with farm animals and outdoor baths?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Historic Cottage in rural Oamaru with farm animals and outdoor baths located?

Situated in Fuchsia Creek, this holiday home is 7.9 mi (12.7 km) from Old School Gallery and within 20 miles (32 km) of Totara Estate and Totara Estate. Oamaru Gardens and St Lukes Anglican Church are also within 20 miles (32 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 19 out of 21 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 2 out of 21 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 21 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 21 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 21 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Staff & service

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Axel Z.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Nice little house with lot's of nature around
It was a beautiful stay there. Nic was a very welcoming host. Breakfast essentials were included and thankfully used. The house was well equipped and clean.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Doug B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Rural hideaway
Grouse as! Awesome hidden gem if you're wanting a quiet getaway far from the crowded tourist hotspots.
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Michelle C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Amazing Little Red Schoolhouse
I really loved my stay here, just the best place to relax and unwind! The views are amazing when out for a walk. The weather was cold but it stayed nice and warm inside. I’ll be coming back!!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Symone S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful well appointed accommodation
We absolutely loved our stay in the Little Red School House. It was incredibly comfortable, gorgeous and had everything we could need. I particularly appreciated the folder with a history of the property, school house an surrounding area. Out stay was an absolute pleasure and we hope to return.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Julie R., Christchurch, New Zealand

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Enjoyable
A great place to stay. We were made to feel welcome by Nic. We enjoyed meeting the animals and being rural. It is lovely to stay in the school house and you have everything you need. It is not far to Oamaru and surrounding areas such as bike trails and walks to see elephants rocks and other sites. We would come here again. Thank you for having us.
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2020

10/10 Excellent

Peter G., Prebbleton

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Relaxing country escape with history
Real kiwi farm location. Still handy enough to town and tourist trails. Enjoyed the history of the house. Modern facilities added well. Relaxing time thank you. Hosts handy if we needed them.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2021

10/10 Excellent

Paul S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
What a find
Just what we wanted - will be back
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2021

8/10 Good

Barbara G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Peaceful and relaxing
Great wee place to stay to take some time out. Clean, modern and warm. Shame the view is not in front of where you sit outside but overall a nice wee escape

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
This place is amazing we loved our stay and didn’t want to leave
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2020

10/10 Excellent

Martin C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Thanks for leaving a light on Nic
Cute, clean, lovely. Thanks Nic
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2020

10/10 Excellent

Julia M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
comforable and cosy
Nic's hospitality was great. The property is quaint and unique with the building carrying much local history evident in the pictures and items in the schoolhouse. The house is well equipped with everything we needed and the special mattress made the bed warm and comfortable. Views of the area are superb. Well worth the drive through pretty hilly countryside. Overall a lovely experience

10/10 Excellent

Judith S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Quiet and quaint
Beautiful little house! Fabulous country surroundings, loved the chickens for company.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2019

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect quiet getaway
This is a beautiful quiet little cottage in a lovely location. It's compact, comfortable, and well equipped with linens, laundry, and kitchen for a worry free stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2019

10/10 Excellent

Rod R.

High Country Stay
Very Good
Stayed 2 nights in May 2019

10/10 Excellent

Michelle C.

Wonderful accommodation very well equipped and delightful hosts
Beautiful decor well equipped cosy and warm
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2019

10/10 Excellent

Derek G.

Awesome. Great place to stay
We had a awesome time at the school house. Highly recommend. Nic and family are lovely people who made the stay even better. Very quiet and peaceful. Thanks for a great time. Cheers. Thank you Nic. xxx
Stayed 33 nights in Nov 2018
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

8/10 Good

Robert B.

The accommodation is very pleasant and reasonably well equipped.
The accommodation is very pleasant and reasonably well equipped. It was wonderful to find accommodation with a teapot! The cottage is very tastefully finished, with a great bed, good cooking facilities, a comfy couch and a generous bathroom. The rural setting is beautiful and peaceful, and offers the potential of pleasant walks. The complimentary breakfasts were an unexpected surprise. Very good WiFi completes a generous package.
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Chris C.

We loved our stay here, would totally recommend for a peaceful getaway.
We loved our stay here, would totally recommend for a peaceful getaway.
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Phil B.

A gorgeous place to stay and the peace and quiet very restorative - enjoyed meeting Roger the goat!
A gorgeous place to stay and the peace and quiet very restorative - enjoyed meeting Roger the goat!
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Richard K.

Lovely location and lovely and very tidy house.
Lovely location and lovely and very tidy house.
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Janette p.

We loved staying in such a peaceful location in a unique and tastefully redecorated schoolhouse.
We loved staying in such a peaceful location in a unique and tastefully redecorated schoolhouse.

About the host

Hosted by Nic

Host profile image
Greg and myself are passionate about our little piece of land that we are lucky enough to be guardians of for the time being. Greg is now the fourth generation of his family to be on this farm. Together with our three children ranging in ages 10 to 20, we enjoy the challenges, the rewards and the lifestyle of sheep and beef farming.

Why they chose this property

The Little Red School House was originally a school that operated at Fuchsia Creek (about 18kms away) from 1925-1949. In the 1950s it was shifted to its current location to be used as Shearers Quarters. It was left untouched until 2007 when a bathroom was added and was renovated in 2017 and opened up as accommodation.

What makes this property unique

Immerse yourself in the farming culture by experiencing day to day farm life or a 4 wheel drive trip, watching sheep shearing, dog trialing, a ride in a side by side motorbike, star gazing, visit the pet sheep, Dolly the goat, the cows or collect fresh eggs from the chickens.

Languages:

English

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests