The Shepherds Rest: Oamaru Farmstay with Outdoor Bath, Alpacas & Sheep
The Shepherd’s Rest is a cosy shepherd’s hut tiny home, reminiscent of the traditional shelters once used by shepherds tending their flocks across the hills. Designed strictly as an adults-only retreat for up to two guests, this self-contained haven offers a peaceful countryside escape. Positioned separately from the main homestead, the hut overlooks rolling neighbouring farmland with sweeping vistas extending out towards the Kakanui Ranges. It delivers the rustic charm of glamping paired with the everyday luxury of mains electricity.
Inside, the warm wood-panelled interior features a comfortable queen bed adorned with glowing fairy lights above to set a magical mood. An efficient kitchenette provides everything needed to prepare meals, including a mini-fridge, electric jug, toaster, two-ring cooker, rice cooker, pots, pans, cutlery, and crockery, accompanied by a compact dining table and chairs. An electric heater and spare blankets keep the space warm during winter months, while a selection of board games provides classic evening entertainment. With no Wi-Fi on site, guests can enjoy a complete digital detox.
The attached indoor ensuite bathroom includes a shower, vanity, hairdryer, and a Bambooloo composting toilet, with fresh linen, towels, and complimentary toiletries supplied for your stay. Stepping outside into the secluded gravel courtyard reveals a gas-heated outdoor bathtub enclosed by rustic corrugated iron. Bathing here under the fading light or beneath a clear starry sky provides a memorable, restful highlight of any stay.
Outdoor relaxation continues on the gravel patio, where colourful Cape Cod chairs invite you to sit back with a glass of wine and soak in the fresh rural air. Curious alpacas and sheep graze in the paddock directly surrounding the hut, and complimentary alpaca nuts are supplied so you can hand-feed your woolly neighbours across the fence. For those wanting a deeper glimpse into daily farm operations, an interactive 4pm farm tour is available for an additional fee.
The hut operates on a self-catering basis, making it ideal to bring fresh provisions or fire up the outdoor gas barbecue when weather permits. For dining out or exploring, the property sits conveniently near Oamaru, where you can sample regional delicacies at local cafes, visit the Whitestone Cheese Factory, explore the Victorian Precinct, or watch wildlife at the famous Blue Penguin Colony.
Kitchen & Dining
Located in the central area of the hut, the kitchenette provides everything required to prepare a basic meal. The wooden counter is equipped with an electric jug, toaster, rice cooker, and a benchtop cooker alongside a sink. A mini-fridge and essential kitchenware ensure effortless self-catering.
Bedrooms
The cosy sleeping area features a queen bed positioned at one end of the hut, decorated from above with glowing fairy lights.
Bathrooms
At the opposite end of the hut, the attached ensuite bathroom is fitted with a shower, vanity unit, and a eco-friendly Bambooloo composting toilet. Fresh towels and essential toiletries are thoughtfully provided for your comfort.
Outdoor Areas
Outside, a gas-heated outdoor bathtub enclosed by rustic corrugated iron provides a quiet spot to soak under a sunset or a starry night sky. The gravel patio features colourful Cape Cod chairs where you can sit back and take in the countryside views. An outdoor barbecue is also on hand for casual meals when weather permits.
Nearby
Oamaru’s Victorian Precinct, Blue Penguin Colony, Steampunk, Elephant Rocks, Riverstone Kitchen, Whitestone Cheese Factory, Moeraki Boulders, Alps2Ocean Cycle Trail, Oamaru Public Gardens.
House Rules
No pets allowed.
No smoking or vaping inside or outside the property.
Please do not enter the paddock with the alpaca as they kick and the grey alpaca with think you are a threat. Feed them by the fence near the bathtub.
The hut is located on a working farm so access is restricted. Please keep to the hut area.
When checking out please turn off lights/heater and close windows if the weather is windy or rainy. We would appreciate you washing and drying any dishes you have used. Leave the door key on the kitchen bench.
Safety Features
Smoke alarm.
Fire extinguisher in the bathroom.
Fire blanket under the kitchen sink.
Booking Cancellation Policy
Guests may cancel their booking up to 7 full days before check-in to receive a full refund of the booking amount. Cancellations made less than 7 full days before check-in are non-refundable. The 3% bank payment fee is non-refundable in all cases.