We were made very welcome by Joanne. She was very friendly and nothing was too much trouble. Our first impression was a bit mixed but it soon felt like home from home. The garden makes a lovely haven to sit with a coffee or glass of wine. We felt that we could fully relax, which is not always the case in someone else's home.
Joanne's local knowledge was a great help, even extending to further afield.
We had a day out to Akaroa on the Banks Peninsula and returned via the summit road. This is a spectacular drive with fantastic views, and worth taking a day over.
We ate out most nights, and can recommend the Brewers Arms, which has a good menu. Everything we tried was good. There is also a wide choice of beers and wines. We also had a good quality Italian meal at Tutto Bene. Both are within walking distance for most people, and there is also a supermarket in the same area.
It is possible to walk into the City .Centre in about 20 minutes or so across Hagley Park.
We were there for four nights. Thanks Joanne for a great stay.