In touring South Island we wanted very much to experience staying on a farm deep in the countryside to sample the realities of rural NZ. The Little Red Schoolhouse met our requirements exactly and we spent a most enjoyable and comfortable night, with Henry the sheep and two alarm-clock hens for company (they woke us in the morning by pecking on the door to demand feeding). The peace and quiet of the location is blissful. The farm is located high up on a ridge with commanding views back over the 7 miles from the nearest classified road. There are two marked walks starting from Little Red with maps provided: sadly we didn't have the time to enjoy them. The whole package is wonderful, underpinned by the efforts of Nic, our outstandingly cheerful and helpful host. There's nowhere to eat out within miles, so buy the ingredients from the supermarket in Oamaru (30 miles), put your steaks on the deluxe gas barbecue, and enjoy rural dinner in peace.

The weather!

The place is unique in a beautiful rural setting. There was a good selection for breakfast. It was so nice sitting on comfy seats on the deck, with 3 friendly hens for company, we saw 2 lambs and a dog also. Beautiful place to relax on the deck looking out at trees and paddocks, could not be better. If you want peace and quiet this is the place. Nic is such a lovely lady, she came to see us to ask if there was anything we needed and to tell us about the place. Everything you need is there, lovely shower. Lovely 25km countryside drive inland from Oamaru. We hope to return one day.

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Continental breakfast was good and generously supplied. Really like the Alexa Dot. Great touch. The surroundings were peaceful and quiet which was exactly what we were seeking. Very clean which is of utmost importance to me. Well stocked with tea towels, dish cloths, choices of coffees and teas.

Could have provided extra shampoo/conditioner/soap for the shower. One always feels like the small amounts that are provided in most accommodation, will not be enough. Also, toilet paper is something that I believe should be supplied in abundance; especially when the accommodation is not serviced (which is what we wanted). I personally, do not like asking for extras. I expect there are some guests who take home any extras, so this could be what is off putting for hosts maybe.

Absolutely cosy wonderful place, worth doing the extra kms. Lovely road to get there. Didn't expect so much comfort in a place like this (slightly remote) with all the amenities you can desire. Welcoming and helpful guest. Excellent for a couple or with kids since there are friendly animals to "play" around with. Would go back without hesitation.

If it would of had a bath tub I would not have left the place ever 😂😂😂.

Private and very quiet. For someone who lives in a city it is a real experience. There are chickens at the door, sheep in the paddock and a goat. Plenty to walk to. The host visited and she was genuinely lovely. Knowing the history of where we were staying was wonderful. Great breakfast and you could even collect fresh eggs. Having wine, chocolate and pizza available was another bonus - in truth - what was not to like

Staying longer

Lovely location - rural so nice & private, picturesque & historic schoolhouse. All amenities there including stove hob, kettle & toaster, tea, coffee & milk, breakfast makings, etc. Particularly enjoyed the little "Easter Eggs" like the child's school desk as a bedside table & school ruler forming part of the skirting board - delightful! Spacious separate bathroom was great & outdoor seating on the deck was wonderful to enjoy the sunset & company from the chickens!

We loved everything about the Little Red School House! It is worth the drive off the beaten track. Incredible attention to detail both inside and outside, you can tell a lot of thought has been put into this place by the owners. Lovely little touches everywhere and everything you could need to make your stay comfortable. We met Nic and she is lovely and was very welcoming. We loved the visits from the hens, and really enjoyed their fresh eggs for breakfast, and we loved visiting Roger the goat (and he loved the bread we gave him!). My partner loved the old farm machinery on the grounds. We will be back for sure. Such a peaceful, relaxing spot.

The kitchen area was so well done with efficiency and charm. There were cereal and coffee choices, lovely bread for toast with choices of condiments. We could have searched for eggs in the henhouse or picked veggies from the garden. I loved that the Schoolhouse was a lovely red and the interior red door had a chalkboard with the name. We loved driving the country roads to get there.

The heavy rain in the afternoon could have stayed away LOL

This is the most amazing place we have ever been to! It is very beautiful, peaceful and quiet! The hosts are adorable, very friendly, and super helpful! We will definitely come back and recommend it to all our friends!

A lovely atmospheric and characterful place - very well and thoughtfully set up. Nic & Greg are very welcoming and inclusive hosts and go above and beyond to be helpful. Lovely friendly visiting animals complete the picture of this great value and comfortable sanctuary.. Highly recommended

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