“Our original vision was quite straightforward: to make Annandale a world-class farming operation and restore the Homestead and the old Shepherd’s Cottage,” says Mark Palmer, owner of Annandale.
But it was the breathtaking beauty and privacy of the property, particularly Whitehead Bay and Scrubby Bay, that inspired Mark and his wife Jacqui to create something far beyond any original plans.
“I realised we had much more than an iconic coastal farm on our hands. Annandale was a magical place, and it seemed a shame not to find a way to share it with others.”
Set across 6,500 acres of rolling farmland on Canterbury’s Banks Peninsula, Annandale is a place where rugged hills meet the Pacific Ocean. 15 km of coastline reveal secluded bays, dramatic cliffs and uninterrupted views. And now, this extraordinary working farm is also home to seven distinctive luxury villas, each offering its own interpretation of a truly private New Zealand escape.
The property’s history stretches back to 1843, when cattle were first farmed here seven years before Canterbury’s first organised settlers arrived. At its heart stands the historic Homestead which was originally built as the Pigeon Bay Hotel in 1886, surrounded by established gardens and a beautiful old fernery.
For Mark, restoring these original buildings was as much about preserving Annandale’s heritage as it was about creating somewhere special for future generations.
And while the property has evolved into an internationally recognised luxury destination, its authenticity remains central to everything it offers.
“Annandale isn’t a resort created to look like a New Zealand farm, it is a 6,500-acre working coastal farm, producing top quality Lumina lamb and Angus beef,” Mark says.
A place of your own
Perhaps what makes Annandale so special is that no two stays are quite the same. Each villa has been carefully positioned and designed to respond to its surroundings.
“Architecturally, we have always tried to make each building belong to its particular landscape rather than compete with it,” says Mark. “That is why every villa is different. The setting comes first; the architecture responds to it.”
For those seeking a romantic escape, Seascape is an architectural masterpiece nestled into the hillside above the secluded Whitehead Bay. Designed with stone walls, a turf roof and expansive glazing, the contemporary retreat feels almost part of the landscape itself, with the Pacific Ocean stretching endlessly beyond.
Scrubby Bay offers something altogether different. Set beside its own private beach, this striking cedar-clad retreat accommodates up to 14 guests, making it an exceptional setting for family gatherings, celebrations or simply spending time together away from the rest of the world.
Then there’s Shepherd’s Cottage, a beautifully restored historic hideaway perched high above the ocean. With its cosy fireplace, rustic charm and outdoor bathtub overlooking the landscape, it offers a quieter, more intimate experience.
The Homestead, meanwhile, remains the historic heart of Annandale. Lovingly restored, the elegant five-bedroom residence is surrounded by expansive gardens and shaded verandahs, blending its 19th-century character with contemporary comforts.
The Stables provides another accommodation option, while two exciting additions, Wakaroa Point and the upcoming Shearwater, bring further variety to the collection.
For Mark, Wakaroa Point is particularly meaningful, representing the culmination of a vision he has held for years.
“Andrew Patterson has designed something extraordinary, and for me the real show-stopper is the setting,” says Mark. “270-degree views across Pegasus Bay and with views of the Southern Alps and snow-capped Kaikōuras in the distance, surrounded by golden tussock, rugged cliffs and grazing sheep. It is quintessentially New Zealand, and stunningly beautiful and peaceful.”
The architecturally designed two-bedroom retreat makes the most of its remarkable clifftop position, with expansive glazing, natural materials, a private pool and spa.
“The uniqueness of each villa is important to us,” says Mark. “No two Annandale experiences are the same.”
From farm to table
An extraordinary setting deserves equally memorable food, and dining has become an important part of the Annandale experience. Mark explains that one of the biggest challenges was finding a way to offer exceptional cuisine without compromising the privacy guests come here to enjoy.
“Some of our villas are wonderfully remote, and guests don’t necessarily want a chef or staff around them all the time.” The solution was a dining concept called ‘We Create, You Serve’, which gives guests the freedom to enjoy restaurant-quality meals entirely on their own terms.
Michelin award-winning chef Liam Summers and his team prepare the dishes, which are then delivered directly to each villa. Guests simply add the finishing touches and serve whenever they’re ready, whether that’s a leisurely lunch overlooking the ocean or an intimate dinner beside the fire. Although there is a private chef if guests prefer a catered experience.
Much of the produce comes directly from Annandale’s gardens and working farm, creating a genuine connection between the land and what’s on the plate. It’s an approach that reflects Annandale’s wider philosophy: exceptional service when it’s wanted, and complete independence when it isn’t.
The luxury of slowing down
While Annandale’s architecture, food and extraordinary location have earned international recognition, including a MICHELIN Key in 2026, it’s the feeling of being there that Mark hopes guests remember most.
There are opportunities to explore the farm, discover the surrounding coastline or simply settle into a villa and watch the changing light across the hills and ocean.
For Mark, one of the greatest pleasures is seeing guests gradually unwind, leaving behind the pace and distractions of everyday life.
“More than anything, Annandale is a place for connection, between couples, families and friends, and with this extraordinary natural beauty of the New Zealand outdoors.”
It’s this combination of seclusion, authenticity and thoughtful hospitality that makes Annandale feel so different from a traditional luxury resort. There’s room to explore, time to reconnect and the rare freedom to do absolutely nothing… at all.
“Luxury can mean many things,” says Mark. “For us, perhaps the greatest luxury is having an extraordinary piece of New Zealand completely to yourself.
“Our mantra is ‘Stay where the world can’t find you,’ and I think that captures Annandale rather well.”