The Bearded Poet.
Abandoned from the age of the Deep Depression, now breathing the salty mist of a new life.
100 years watching the ships as they come and go, as do the tides.
A resting place as you wait out the storms that pass.
Trinkets that murmur poetry of old secrets and comforts of a homesteaders hand.
Swaying by the glow of the candlelight to the bygone tune on the radio.
Barren hills and rugged cliffs will be wandered upon.
Your version of Wonder to be found here,
along the black volcanic rocks on the water’s edge.
The Bearded Poet is set on Banks Peninsula, just under an hour from Christchurch City.
The cabin is nestled along the rugged, wild coastline of Lyttelton Harbour within a unique volcanic landscape of Camp Bay. Positioned only 20 metres from the rocky shoreline, you’re graced with front-row ocean views.
Keirangi is a 306ha coastal sheep and beef farm owned by Alex and Wendy Keir.
Steeped in history, The Bearded Poet was originally built during the Depression in the early 1930s. It is still clad in the original flattened kerosene tins.
Now beautifully restored, in keeping with its era, the hut is filled with old worldly charm. It features two bedrooms - ‘The Captain’s Room’ with an oceanside view. The cosy lounging space is thoughtfully embellished to complement the surroundings and history. Winter days call for the glow of the fireplace, a wool rug, and hot tea as you snuggle in with your favourite novel. The deck overlooks the water, allowing you to relax to the soothing sounds of the waves, and watch the boats as they come and go, as do the tides. If you’re lucky, the Hector Dolphins and Orcas may just grace you. The bathroom is in a separate privy, and a lovely outdoor clawfoot bath is nearby for a hot soak overlooking the Ocean after salty swims.
Forage mussels right outside the hut for a fisherman’s feast, cast a fishing line and test your luck. The private Historic Pack Track hike is a must-do, taking in the breathtaking views of Godley Head and the Southern end of the harbour. You may just find your version of Wonder here.
“My partner and I have stayed at many Canopy Camping escapes, and The Bearded Poet is by far the best escape we have stayed at. Best setting and atmosphere. Best hosts. Best facilities and extremely clean. Staying at The Bearded Poet, the perception is that you are hours away from anything. The reality is, you are only 50 minutes away from the Christchurch CBD. You don’t have to travel hours to get to a Marlborough-type setting and atmosphere. You get The Bearded Poet on the back doorstep of Christchurch. We will be back. 10 out of 10.”
Nathan Dargan
