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The Fern & Thistle Luxury Accommodation

4.0 star property

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Photo gallery for The Fern & Thistle Luxury Accommodation

Sauna
Luxury Double Room (O'Malley Suite) | Egyptian cotton sheets, premium bedding, free minibar
Front of property
Superior Room (Iwi Katea Room) | Garden view
Superior Room (Iwi Katea Room) | Egyptian cotton sheets, premium bedding, free minibar

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional

Popular amenities

  • Hot tub
  • Pet friendly
  • Parking included
  • Free WiFi
  • Laundry

Explore the area

View in a map
146 Benhar Rd, Benhar, OTA, 9272
  • Place, Southern Institute of Technology
    ‪12 min drive‬
  • Place, Kaka Point Scenic Reserve
    ‪29 min drive‬
  • Place, Kaka Point Beach
    ‪29 min drive‬
  • Airport, Dunedin (DUD-Dunedin Intl.)
    ‪49 min drive‬

Room options

View all photos for Luxury Room (McSkimmings Suite)

Luxury Room (McSkimmings Suite) | Egyptian cotton sheets, premium bedding, free minibar

Luxury Room (McSkimmings Suite)

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(2 reviews)
  • Garden view
  • 269 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Superior Room (Iwi Katea Room)

Superior Room (Iwi Katea Room) | Egyptian cotton sheets, premium bedding, free minibar

Superior Room (Iwi Katea Room)

8.0 out of 10
Very good
(1 review)
  • Garden view
  • 194 sq ft
  • 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) | Egyptian cotton sheets, premium bedding, free minibar

Luxury Double Room (O'Malley Suite)

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)
  • Garden view
  • 258 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 Queen Bed

About the neighborhood

Benhar

The Fern & Thistle Luxury Accommodation is located 7 mi (11.2 km) from Southern Institute of Technology and 8.9 mi (14.3 km) from Shaws Island. This 3-room, 4-star bed & breakfast has outdoor private hot tubs along with free in-room WiFi and free self parking.
View more B&B in BenharOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • Southern Institute of Technology - 12 min drive - 8.1 miles
  • Kaka Point Scenic Reserve - 29 min drive - 19.9 miles
  • Kaka Point Beach - 29 min drive - 20.2 miles
  • Catlins Lake - 33 min drive - 28.0 miles
  • Nugget Point Lighthouse - 54 min drive - 26.4 miles

Getting around

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

Restaurants

  • ‪Cafe 55 - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Highway Diner - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Subway - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Heart and Soul Cafe - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪MEDian Cafe - ‬6 min drive

About this property

The Fern & Thistle Luxury Accommodation

Guests of The Fern & Thistle Luxury Accommodation enjoy a sauna, a hot tub, and coffee in a common area. You can put free parking to good use if you drive. If you like to take your furry friend along on your adventures, this pet-friendly property offers food and water bowls and an off-leash area. Other amenities at this boutique bed & breakfast include laundry facilities and a garden.
Guests can expect to find free WiFi and 48-inch Smart TVs with digital channels and Netflix. Bathrooms offer hair dryers and bathrobes, and beds are dressed in Egyptian cotton sheets. Other standard amenities include outdoor private hot tubs, free minibar items, and furnished patios.
Recreational amenities at the bed & breakfast include a hot tub and a sauna.

The recreational activities listed below are available either on site or nearby; fees may apply.

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$90 nightly
The price is $104
Mar 18 - Mar 19
Total with taxes and fees
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Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • 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 elevator
  • 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

  • Bathrobes
  • 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 available
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

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

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
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Access methods

Host will greet you, lockbox

Pets

  • This property welcomes pets for free
  • Food and water bowls and an off-leash area are available
  • Service animals exempt from fees

Children and extra beds

  • Free rollaway/extra beds are available

Property 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-authorize the guest's credit card prior to arrival.
Cashless transactions are available
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room
  • Check-in: 3:00 PM
  • Check-out: 10:00 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 18
Driving? This property offers free parking.

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • 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, terraces which may not be suitable for children. If you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • This property accepts credit cards, debit cards, and cash.
  • This property reserves the right to pre-authorize the guest's credit card prior to arrival.
  • Onsite safety features include a fire extinguisher.
  • Cashless payment methods are available for all transactions.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • There are no elevators.
  • No cribs or infant beds are available.

National rating

Property class, provided by our rating system, is based on property type, amenities, and services.

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

Is free cancellation available at The Fern & Thistle Luxury Accommodation?

The Fern & Thistle Luxury Accommodation provides free cancellation on some room rates. For additional details, look at the cancellation policy on our site.

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

As of Mar 5, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at The Fern & Thistle Luxury Accommodation on Mar 10, 2026 start from $111, 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.

What's there to do around The Fern & Thistle Luxury Accommodation?

This bed & breakfast is located in Benhar, close to Shaws Island.

Will I be able to park at The Fern & Thistle Luxury Accommodation?

Yes, secured self parking is offered for free at the bed & breakfast.

Does The Fern & Thistle Luxury Accommodation feature a casino at the property?

No, The Fern & Thistle Luxury Accommodation doesn't have a casino.

Is there an indoor pool at The Fern & Thistle Luxury Accommodation?

No, this bed & breakfast doesn't have an indoor pool; however, there is a hot tub.

What do couples enjoy most about The Fern & Thistle Luxury Accommodation?

Amenities that appeal to couples at this boutique bed u0026 breakfast include a minibar stocked with free items, Egyptian cotton sheets, and Netflix.

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

Yes, all guestrooms at this bed & breakfast have private outdoor spa tubs.

Does The Fern & Thistle Luxury Accommodation have a restaurant that serves breakfast?

The Fern & Thistle Luxury Accommodation offers free continental breakfast each morning though there is no restaurant.

Does The Fern & Thistle Luxury Accommodation allow pets to stay for free?

Yes, pets stay free at The Fern & Thistle Luxury Accommodation and the property also provides an off-leash area and food and water bowls for pets.

Are there connecting rooms at The Fern & Thistle Luxury Accommodation?

No, this bed & breakfast doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.

Where is the closest airport to The Fern & Thistle Luxury Accommodation?

The closest major airport to The Fern & Thistle Luxury Accommodation is Dunedin (DUD-Dunedin Intl.), which is about 28.6 mi away.

Are there rooms with balconies at The Fern & Thistle Luxury Accommodation?

Yes, every guestroom at The Fern & Thistle Luxury Accommodation comes with a furnished patio with some featuring garden views.

The Fern & Thistle Luxury Accommodation Reviews

Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 45 out of 58 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 10 out of 58 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 3 out of 58 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 58 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 58 reviews

9.6/10

Cleanliness

9.8/10

Staff & service

9.4/10

Amenities

9.4/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Sharlene

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great hosts, loved the location and facilities. Appreciated the complimentary mini bar and beautiful selection for breakfast. Very accommodating for an early breakfast also.
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Julie

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Fabulous place.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Ning

Traveled 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

Traveled 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

Traveled 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

Traveled 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

Traveled 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

Traveled 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 traveler
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

Traveled 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

Traveled with partner, Traveled with pets
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 traveler
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

Traveled 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

Traveled 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

Traveled 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

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