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The Fern & Thistle Luxury Accommodation

4.0 star property
Family-friendly bed & breakfast with free breakfast and sauna

Photo gallery for The Fern & Thistle Luxury Accommodation

Front of property
Luxury Room (McSkimmings Suite)
Free daily continental breakfast
Superior Room (Iwi Katea Room) | Garden view
Property grounds

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional

Popular amenities

  • Hot tub
  • Pet-friendly
  • Laundry
  • Housekeeping
  • Parking included
The current price is NZ$157
includes taxes & fees
9 Nov - 10 Nov

Explore the area

View map
146 Benhar Rd, Benhar, OTA, 9272
  • Place, Kaka Point Beach
    ‪33 min drive‬
  • Place, Catlins Lake
    ‪40 min drive‬
  • Place, Nugget Point Lighthouse
    ‪59 min drive‬
  • Airport, Dunedin (DUD-Dunedin Intl.)
    ‪53 min drive‬

Room options

View all photos for Luxury Room (McSkimmings Suite)

Luxury Room (McSkimmings Suite)

Luxury Room (McSkimmings Suite)

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(2 reviews)

Highlights

Furnished patio
Garden
Separate dining area
Separate sitting area
Individually furnished
Individually decorated
Private outdoor hot tub
Heating
  • 25 sq m
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Superior Room (Iwi Katea Room)

Superior Room (Iwi Katea Room)

Superior Room (Iwi Katea Room)

8.0 out of 10
Very good
(1 review)

Highlights

Furnished patio
Garden
Separate dining area
Separate sitting area
Individually furnished
Individually decorated
Private outdoor hot tub
Heating
  • 18 sq m
  • 2 bedrooms
  • Sleeps 5
  • 1 Queen Bed and 2 Twin Beds

View all photos for Luxury Double Room (O'Malley Suite)

Luxury Double Room (O'Malley Suite)

Luxury Double Room (O'Malley Suite)

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)

Highlights

Furnished patio
Garden
Separate dining area
Separate sitting area
Individually furnished
Individually decorated
Private outdoor hot tub
Heating
  • 24 sq m
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 Queen Bed

About the area

Benhar

A family-friendly stay in Benhar awaits you at The Fern & Thistle Luxury Accommodation. You'll be 11.2 km (7 mi) from Southern Institute of Technology and 14.3 km (8.9 mi) from Shaws Island. Highlights at this boutique B&B include free continental breakfast, free self-parking and Access to hot tub. .Places within a 30-minute drive of this 4-property class Benhar B&B include Kaka Point Beach and Recreational Reserve.
View more B&B in BenharOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • Kaka Point Beach - 33 min drive - 30.6 km
  • Kaka Point Scenic Reserve - 37 min drive - 30.6 km
  • Catlins Lake - 40 min drive - 45.8 km
  • Cannibal Bay Beach - 48 min drive - 46.4 km
  • Nugget Point Lighthouse - 59 min drive - 40.2 km

Getting around

  • Dunedin (DUD-Dunedin Intl.) - 46 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Cafe 55 - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Subway - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Captains Cafe & Bar - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Heart and Soul Cafe - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Rosebank Café & Grill - ‬8 min drive

About this property

The Fern & Thistle Luxury Accommodation

Family-friendly bed & breakfast with free breakfast and sauna
The Fern & Thistle Luxury Accommodation offers its guests Access to hot tub and a sauna. Free breakfast is available daily. The family-friendly The Fern & Thistle Luxury Accommodation also features a garden, coffee/tea in common area, and laundry facilities. Free self parking is available.

Smoking is allowed in designated areas at this 4-star Benhar bed & breakfast.

  • 3 guestrooms or units
  • 2 levels
  • Built in 1914
  • Continental breakfast (free)
  • Coffee in lobby
  • Self-service laundry
  • Garden
  • Smoking in designated areas
The Fern & Thistle Luxury Accommodation offers 3 accommodations with outdoor private hot tubs and free minibar items. Rooms open to furnished patios. This individually decorated and furnished accommodation has separate dining areas. Beds feature Egyptian cotton sheets and premium bedding. 48-inch Smart televisions come with digital channels, video game consoles and Netflix.

Bathrooms include baths or showers and hairdryers. This Benhar bed & breakfast provides complimentary wireless Internet access. Housekeeping is provided on a daily basis.

Similar properties

Superior Queen Studio | Terrace/patio
The Kaka Point Motels
  • Parking included
  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning
  • Housekeeping
4.6 out of 5, Wonderful, 256 reviews
The price is NZ$156
includes taxes & fees
17 Nov - 18 Nov
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Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi

Parking and transport

  • Free secured self parking on site
  • Onsite parking includes off-street options

Food and drink

  • Free continental breakfast available daily 7:30 AM to 10:00 AM
  • Coffee and tea in common areas

Things to do

  • Hot tub
  • Playground
  • Sauna

Family friendly

  • Art supplies
  • Baby bath
  • Baby toys
  • Children's books
  • Children's dinnerware
  • Children's games
  • Children's toys
  • Free rollaway/extra bed
  • High chair
  • In-room microwave
  • Laundry facilities
  • Mini-fridge
  • Playground
  • Separate in-room dining area
  • Trampoline

Conveniences

  • Laundry facilities

Guest services

  • Housekeeping (daily)

Outdoors

  • Garden

Accessibility

  • No lift
  • Thin carpet in public areas

More

  • 2 floors
  • Built in 1914
  • Designated smoking areas
  • Traditional architecture

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Egyptian cotton sheets
  • Free rollaway/extra bed

Bathroom

  • Bathtub or shower
  • Hair dryer
  • Private bathroom
  • Shampoo
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Entertainment

  • 48-inch smart TV with digital channels
  • Netflix
  • Streaming services
  • Video game console

Food and drink

  • Free bottled water
  • Free stocked minibar
  • Freezer
  • Microwave
  • Mini-fridge
  • Separate dining area
  • Toaster

More

  • Heating
  • Individual decor
  • Individual furnishings
  • Separate sitting area

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 3:00 PM; check-in end time: anytime
Contactless check-in and check-out are available
Minimum check-in age - 18

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM
Contactless check-out

Special check-in instructions

There is no front desk at this property
Guests will receive an email within 24 hours before arrival with check-in instructions and lockbox information; your host will greet you
To make arrangements for check-in please contact the property at least 24 hours before arrival using the information on the booking confirmation

Access methods

Host will greet you, lockbox

Pets

  • Pets are welcome and stay free
  • Food and water bowls and an off-lead area are available

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.
  • Free rollaway/extra beds!
  • Cots (infant beds) are not available.

Payment types

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
This property accepts credit cards, debit cards and cash
This property reserves the right to pre-authorise the guest's credit card prior to arrival.
Cashless transactions are available
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A cash deposit, credit card or debit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
    This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business or profession. This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children. If you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room. This property accepts Visa, Mastercard, debit cards and cash. This property reserves the right to pre-authorise the guest's credit card prior to arrival. Cashless payment methods are available for all transactions.

National rating

For the benefit of our customers, we have provided a rating based on our ratings system.

Property is also known as

The Fern Thistle Accommodation
The Fern & Thistle Luxury Accommodation Benhar
The Fern & Thistle Luxury Accommodation Bed & breakfast
The Fern & Thistle Luxury Accommodation Bed & breakfast Benhar

Frequently asked questions

What is the cancellation policy at The Fern & Thistle Luxury Accommodation?

The Fern & Thistle Luxury Accommodation offers free cancellation on select room rates. Check out the cancellation policy for more info.

How much does it cost to stay at The Fern & Thistle Luxury Accommodation?

As of 2 Nov 2025, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at The Fern & Thistle Luxury Accommodation on 9 Nov 2025 start from NZ$157.47, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

Is parking available at The Fern & Thistle Luxury Accommodation?

Yep, The Fern & Thistle Luxury Accommodation has a free self car park.

Are there any beaches close to The Fern & Thistle Luxury Accommodation?

The closest beach to The Fern & Thistle Luxury Accommodation is Kaka Point Beach (18.1 km).

What makes The Fern & Thistle Luxury Accommodation a romantic place to stay?

1 hot tub, plus Hot tubs in the guestrooms, help set the scene for a romantic weekend at The Fern & Thistle Luxury Accommodation.

Is The Fern & Thistle Luxury Accommodation family-friendly?

You bet! With amenities such as a playground and laundry facilities, as well as highchairs and baby baths in the guestrooms, it's no surprise that The Fern & Thistle Luxury Accommodation is a hit with families.

Are there hot tubs in the rooms at The Fern & Thistle Luxury Accommodation?

Yep, all rooms come with private hot tubs.

Does The Fern & Thistle Luxury Accommodation serve breakfast?

You bet, complimentary continental brekkie is served daily from 7:30 AM to 10:00 AM.

Is there a free airport shuttle available at The Fern & Thistle Luxury Accommodation?

No, The Fern & Thistle Luxury Accommodation does not offer an airport shuttle service.

What time are check-in & check-out at The Fern & Thistle Luxury Accommodation?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM. Check-out time is 10:00 AM.

Are pets allowed at The Fern & Thistle Luxury Accommodation?

Furry friends are welcome at The Fern & Thistle Luxury Accommodation, with dog exercise areas and food and water bowls on offer.

Reviews

The Fern & Thistle Luxury Accommodation Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

9.8/10

Cleanliness

9.8/10

Staff & service

9.6/10

Amenities

9.6/10

Property conditions & facilities

9.2/10

Eco-friendliness
Rating 10 - Excellent. 42 out of 54 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 10 out of 54 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 2 out of 54 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 54 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 54 reviews

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Ning

Travelled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Whispers at Fern & Thistle

Absolutely loved our stay at the Fern & Thistle Hotel in Balclutha! The historic charm of the house is beautifully preserved, with a stunning vintage garden full of old roses and unique plants. The amenities are outstanding—from the cozy dry sauna in a barrel cabin to the luxurious hot tubs (one in the room and a massive one in the garden). The countryside views add a peaceful touch, and the complimentary drinks and local beer were a generous bonus. Our room had a super king-size bed and Netflix on the TV, making it the perfect spot to unwind. The owner is warm, polite, and clearly takes pride in every detail. A truly special place—highly recommend! Steam curls in the garden air, roses dream in silence there. Barrel sauna, warm and still, country hush on every hill. Golden beer and velvet bed, gentle words the owner said. In this house, the past is near- peace and beauty, crystal clear.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

John

Travelled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Don’t miss this place!

Great facility.
Stayed 1 night in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Bryan

Travelled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Fantastic stay and Darryn and Sandy are excellent hosts.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Laurin

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Shawn

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
This was a gem of a property to find. The historic house and the hosts were exceptional. We were only there for 1 night, but they made us feel like friends that had returned for a visit. Absolutely recommend a stay here. And the homemade breakfast breads were amazing!
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Mary Jane

Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Richard, Livingston

Travelled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
This was the most luxurious accommodation we have stayed at in a long time. Not only was it perfect and indulgent, our hosts were amazing. We appreciated every attention to detail, even treating us in the morning by our first names as we got coffee. They made us feel welcome and part of the family.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Boon Ping

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2024

8/10 Good

sally

Travelled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Well furnished large bedrooms. Bathroom was some way up the hallway. Continental breakfast plentiful as well as complimentary soft drinks. Quiet and peaceful in lovely large garden. Hot tub was a nice addition.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Sintaya

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Mary

Travelled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The love and respect shown for the historic property by the current owners is inspiring. There is a very welcoming and family oriented feel to the property, and their two labs are friendly and good company. I would seriously recommend this property for small group getaways, corporate or private retreats.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

E

Business traveller
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Fabulous Historical Home

Wow what a beautiful setting for this glorious homestead. Stunning room (wonderful free upgrade-thank you!) with so much space and history beautifully presented. Unlimited tea & coffee & cold drinks a real bonus and the free sweet treats in the room much appreciated. Bathroom is separate but each room has its own bathroom so not a problem. The included breakfast was a great bonus with homemade breads & conserves. Radiator heating throughout the house made it so warm & cosy! Will definitely stay again as hosts very welcoming and helpful. Really interesting history of the building & the town which adds to the experience and so close to Balclutha so great for business trip.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Sharon

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Unique and beautiful house with wonderful hosts.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Ruth

Travelled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Beautiful property and excellent hosts! Had everything we could have dreamed of.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Selina

Travelled with pets, Travelled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
OMG what an amazing we gem! Matt was so friendly and accommodating of us and our dog. The grounds were amazing, the room was amazing and everything else was just all round amazing. I would highly recommend a stay here and we will for sure be back again. Thank you so much!
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

travis

Business traveller
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
If I could give this place 10 stars I would. I’ve stayed at some of the finest places in the world. There is not enough space to list all of amenities and complimentary services offered here. It is beautiful and you feel like a pampered guest of the aristocracy. You’ll just have to see for yourself. Best in the south island for sure. Hosts are great.
Stayed 1 night in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Renee

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Hospitality and welcome excellent! Grounds are beautiful. It was my first time staying in this type of accommodation and truly enjoyed it. Highly recommended. My gratitude to the family hosts.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2024

8/10 Good

Jeff

Liked: Staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Really nice old style feeling. Beautiful room, building and surrounding courtyard as well as history behind the building & area
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2024

8/10 Good

Howard, East islip

Travelled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Comfortable B & B about 10 minutes outside Balclutha in the country. We enjoyed our stay
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Roy

Travelled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Very nice place. Would recommend to all who visit this area.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2024

8/10 Good

Amelia

Travelled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Wallace

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2023

6/10 Okay

Irene

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Trek to bathroom

The bathroom was a trek down the hallway and the taps were nearly impossible to get your hands under the water
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Geoffrey

Travelled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great hosts and accommodation in a beautiful historic home with lovely gardens. Comfortable spacious room with very comfortable bed and mattress. Large bathroom with plenty of extras. Excellent breakfast plenty of choice. Couldn't ask for more
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Paul

Stayed 1 night in Nov 2023