A place to stay

KATIE NEWTON finds a cosy base for spectacular Southern Alps adventures

High Country Cabin

When Kenny and Heidi Smith sat down to do some “life-planning”, they decided to take a different approach to property investment. Wanting to maintain a sense of adventure and a connection to the outdoors, they built and furnished a small yet cosy cabin in the Southern Alps, 15 minutes from Twizel, now bookable on Airbnb. Furnished simply but comfortably and lined with dark v-grooved ply, it has a gorgeous mountain view. Kenny brims with enthusiasm for the nearby walks, skiing and good old fashioned hospitality of Twizel. “We tell anyone visiting for the first time to do the Hooker Valley walk,” he says. “It really is spectacular.” Afternoon drinks and dinner at Lake Ohau Lodge is another must. $160 per night for two, highcountrycabin.co.nz. >