I stayed here the last night of my 18-day trip. I chose this place because of it's isolated, hilltop location. I wanted to enjoy the last day/night looking at the scenery and star-gazing. The clouds that night only gave a short window for viewing, but while it was still light outside, provided an amazing view and show as they came across the mountains to the northwest. They left the tops of the peaks visible, while creating a pillow-like scene below, one that changed by the second. It provided for some great pics. The nearest house is roughly a mile away and 800' or so below this place. I was able to see the Waimakariri River where it flows north of Christchurch. There are a number of tracks fairly close, ranging from easy to moderately difficult. While isolated, its only about a 12-minute drive to town, where there's a Fresh Choice and restaurants. The hosts were communicative and accomodating. They let me check out a couple hours late to relax there instead of at the airport.