Welcome to benlea.co.nz

About Benlea

Benlea is our sheep and cattle farm of nearly 3000 acres (1200Ha) situated across the Rakaia River from Mt Hutt in the foothills of Canterbury in the South Island of New Zealand. We have stunning views of the surrounding hills and mountains and are close to many activities such as skiing, fishing, golf, jet boating, and walkways and many restaurants and cafes - a great place to live!

This website tells you about some of the things we do from here other than farming. 

Cathie Bell Photography

A gallery of  photographs taken by Cathie Bell. 

My photos capture the many things that surround us here at Benlea. There are also photos taken on our travels in Australia, Uruguay, Argentina, USA and Canada.    Come take a look!  

Benlea Cottage Holiday House Accommodation

Benlea  Cottage provides holiday house accommodation right on our farm in the Rakaia Gorge ( Canterbury, New Zealand ) with stunning views, plenty of peace and comfort, all less than one hour from Christchurch and close to Mount Hutt Ski Field and Terrace Downs High Country Resort. Great central base for skiing, fishing, golf, biking and walking, or private and quiet enough for just taking a complete break from city life. Take  a look and make an enquiry direct from this site.

Farm & Garden Tours

The Tour: A 1-2 hour bus  tour through our Rakaia Gorge ( Canterbury, New Zealand ) sheep and cattle farm pointing out farming practices along the way and then returning to the 1 acre garden surrounding our family home. Ideal for international tour groups, garden clubs, probus and other club groups or please enquire about smaller groups. Click here for pictures  and info.