Christchurch B&B NZ

Helping to shear a sheep is an unforgettable experience
— part of the fun of a farm visit around Oxford and the Gorges.

Oxford and the Gorges

Stoneleigh Lodge, a Christchurch B&B, NZ, is near to a number of scenic rural towns in the North Canterbury area of the South Island.

Oxford Oxford is a short drive inland from Stoneleigh Lodge B&B, and is a small rural town is nestled under the Southern Alps, close to the Waimakariri and Ashley Gorges. It was originally known as Harewood Forest and had 11 sawmills in the 1870s. In 1898 two large forest fires destroyed much of the forest as well as mills houses, bridges and farms. The last mill closed in 1911. Today Oxford is a genuine country town with a number of nearby scenic and outdoor recreational areas. The extensive beech forest is well worth a walk.

You can enjoy the local honey, or try out the hunting fishing, jet boating or kayaking.

Waimakariri Gorge The Waimakariri Gorge is nestled between rocky walls. It is used as a staging point for the famous Coast-to-Coast race.

Ashley Gorge The Ashley Gorge is a pleasant picnic spot or camping ground.

All these great spots are just a short drive inland from Stoneleigh Lodge B&B.

"Visit the country towns of North Canterbury, near the Stoneleigh Lodge, Christchurch B&B, NZ."