Dyers House sits comfortably on the Cashmere Hills overlooking the city, Canterbury Plains, Southern Alps and Pacific Ocean. It has been fully renovated to reflect its Edwardian heritage but with an eye to today’s guests’ comfort and needs.

Breathtaking views from the sitting and dining rooms give visitors great perspective whilst only minutes from the city centre and all attractions.

All guest suites feature exquisite Egyptian cotton linens, very comfortable beds, underfloor heating and double glazing. Each room has an amazing variety of snacks, spirits, wines and fruit juices. Bowls of fruit, fresh flowers and pretty cupcakes, fresh teas and coffee allow indulgence after a long journey or a hard day’s sightseeing.

Hosts Angela and Barry will charm, but it’s their warm, professional approach to innkeeping that impresses. Sharing a glass of wine and appetisers before dinner and a nightcap on return from the restaurant are informal get-togethers.

They are happy to drop guests into town, rescue travellers from the airport or station and are a never-ending source of local knowledge and stories.

Advising on restaurants too, they are happy to make bookings. Conversation flows easily here as guests relax, adventures are revealed and common interests shared, making for some very interesting interactions.

Capacity: 6 guests, 3 rooms. Check in/check out: Flexible. Reception hours: Flexible. Price: $320.