We wish country and quiet B&B, not city center. By rent car, it is easy to access.

Be prepared for a gorgeous experience. Sheryl and Ken are artists, and their work adorns their house and gardens. Ken's mosaics are visible on the bathroom tiled floor and garden paths. Sheryl's amazing fabric art is exquisite, from the comforter cover on the bed to wall decorations, lampshades, and pillows in the living room. Breakfast was delicious, with homemade preserves as well as homemade bread and yogurt. Ken's advice proved invaluable in our visit to Dunedin, as he recommended a very special second--hand bookstore near the university and a wonderful restaurant by the harbor. Our only regret is that we only stayed one night with them. Their house is about 7 km south of Oamaru, a manageable distance and one of the loveliest homestays we have visited.
Pamela Nelson and Kit Olmsted

We re-visit Ranui Retreat each time we're in NZ and for several nights, which says a lot. The self-contained room has a fantastic bedspread made by Sheryl. Ken and Sheryl are fun hosts and Sheryl's cooking superb, so consider the DBB option. Steam Punk Exhibition in Oamaru was amazing.

We received a wonderful welcome, were made to feel very much at home, and were shown to our very comfortable and beautifully colour co-ordinated "lavender room." There was a queen size bed with a wonderful hand made bedspread and many other artefacts made by the owners. We were able to roam the lovely gardens, and really felt as if we were part of the family. The breakfasts and dinners were superbly cooked.
What a suitable quiet centre from which to explore Oamaru and the various penguin colonies!
We loved our stay with Sheryl & Ken.
Pat & Don Salisbury