Location: Charteris Bay, Banks Peninsula, New Zealand
Type of Stay: 3-Bedroom, 1-Bathroom House
Price Range: $$
Digital Nomad-Friendly? Yes, but in a quiet area
Best For: Vacationers, nomads who enjoy quiet with city access (1-hour away)
Length of My Stay: 1 Month
Standout Feature: Incredible views of Charteris Bay from floor-to-ceiling windows, beautiful deck with outdoor seating and hammock, incredibly private
Booking Link: Airbnb Listing
Table of Contents
Checking In: First Impressions
I booked this home because I wanted a place close to Christchurch, yet far enough away to feel quiet and unique. At just 45 minutes from the city, it offered the perfect escape while still being practical for day trips. Plus, I had been wanting to explore the Banks Peninsula and Akaroa, so this location made that easy.
Upon arrival, the first thing that struck me was the view. The house is perfectly positioned to take in uninterrupted views of Charteris Bay, visible from nearly every room, including the master bedroom. The home itself felt spacious and livable, not just like a rental but a place where I could comfortably settle in for a month.
Other first impressions:
- The kitchen was massive and well-stocked, which made cooking a pleasure.
- The WiFi was solid, so I had no issues working remotely.
- The beds were extremely comfortable, making it easy to relax after long days of exploring.
Book this Airbnb in the Charteris Bay of New Zealand here!
About the Stay: Design, Comfort & Amenities
This home is designed to take full advantage of its surroundings. The floor-to-ceiling windows flood the space with natural light, while the large deck areas create the perfect setting to soak in the views. The living area is open and cozy, with a big dining table that doubled as my workspace.
Workability & WiFi
- The WiFi was strong and reliable, perfect for remote work.
- No dedicated office space, but plenty of comfortable spots to work from.
- Quiet environment, making it easy to focus.
Outdoor Features
- Multiple decks with seating and a hammock—perfect for relaxing.
- A grill for outdoor cooking.
- Completely private and peaceful, with no noisy neighbors or road traffic.
Kitchen & Comfort
- Large, fully stocked kitchen with everything needed for long-term stays.
- Laundry facilities available, which is always a plus.
- Sleeps up to six people, but with only one bathroom, it might feel tight for a full group.
The Location & Nearby Attractions
Charteris Bay is ideal if you’re looking for peace, nature, and relaxation. If you’re hoping for a lively social scene or nightlife, this probably isn’t the best spot.
Nearby Activities
- Orton Bradley Park – Within walking distance (if you don’t mind some hills), this park became part of my daily routine. With scenic trails, a peaceful atmosphere, and lots of sheep, it was one of the best surprises of staying here.
- Akaroa – A great day trip with coastal views, dolphin tours, and charming cafes.
- Diamond Harbor Ferry to Lyttleton – Just 10 minutes away, though I personally never felt the need to take it.
Food & Dining
- Salt Fish & Chips – A decent option, but overall, there aren’t many restaurants nearby.
- Soulful Coffee Shop – A new café with great coffee and a cozy atmosphere.
- Four Square Diamond Harbor – The closest grocery store, about 10 minutes away, with a solid selection.
Getting There & Accessibility
- Parking is a bit tricky—best suited for smaller vehicles. I can’t imagine a truck or larger vehicle being able to fit in here.
- No staffed gas stations nearby—the closest one requires a New Zealand bank card, so fuel up before arriving. There is no attendant to pay cash either.
My Experience: Pros & Cons
What I Loved
- Unreal views from nearly every room—waking up to that scenery was next level.
Peaceful, private, and quiet—perfect for relaxation and focused work. - Orton Bradley Park was an unexpected highlight and became a daily hiking spot.
Well-stocked kitchen—cooking with bay views never gets old. - Comfortable for 2+ people—could fit 6, but with only 1 bathroom, it might feel tight
What Could Be Improved
- Parking is a bit of a challenge—tight space that’s not ideal for larger vehicles.
- Not great for socializing—if you’re looking for nightlife or community, this area is very quiet.
Few restaurant options nearby—be ready to cook most of your meals. - Gas station issues—nearest one is card-only for NZ bank cards, so plan ahead.
Final Thoughts: Would I Stay Here Again?
Absolutely. This Charteris Bay retreat offered the perfect mix of seclusion, comfort, and accessibility. The views alone made it worth it, but the peaceful setting, great hiking access, and remote work-friendly setup made it an easy choice.
For travelers looking for a quiet escape near Christchurch—especially those who love nature, hiking, and working remotely—this place is a fantastic option. I’d 100% stay here again.
