Anglican
Diocese
with the
of CHRISTCHURCH
Temporary Change in Opening Hours:
Sister Eveleen Retreat House will be operating under reduced opening hours in April and closed in May and June while we undertake building renovations and appoint a new House Director. We'll continue to monitor our emails so get in touch if you have any questions or would like to make a booking after June.
ABOUT
Sister Eveleen Retreat House is a Christian retreat house nestled amongst native trees and beach flora on Scarborough Hill, Christchurch. Everyone is welcome to visit and spend time in prayer and contemplation. Our mission is to maintain Sister Eveleen as a space for people to rest, replenish their spirit, and immerse themselves in God’s loving presence. Our beautiful garden is a great place to stop and rest. There is also a small chapel on site where guests are welcome to pray. Sister Eveleen Retreat House is a house of spiritual help and prayer.
OUR ROOMS
SERH offers thirteen beds in nine rooms, each offering a range of accommodation choices and prices all with heating. All rooms at our inspiring retreat are warm and inviting with captivating views of sky and sea. Each room has a tranquil and cozy atmosphere, facilitating your refreshing spiritual retreat.
OUR SERVICES
Chapel
The chapel is a quiet, reflective space for prayer and small gatherings. While bookings are in place, the chapel is a private space for all guests.
Garden
The garden is beautifully situated on Scarborough hill overlooking the sea. It offers many spots for quiet meditation and prayer. While bookings are in place, the garden is a private space for all guests.
Spiritual Direction
We offer spiritual direction for individuals and for groups, upon request. You will be given wisdom and guidance by our qualified spiritual directors, facilitating your spiritual retreat.
Housekeeping
Before and after use, the retreat will be cleaned by our staff. All housekeeping will be done, so you don't have to worry about it!
Library
We have a lovely collection of books that are available to anyone staying at the retreat. There is a wide range of authors and texts, be sure to check them out!
Kitchen
Our full kitchen will be available for your use at any time during your stay. This includes oven, stove, microwave, fridge, freezer and all cutlery, crockery and cooking equipment. Guests will, however, need to cater for themselves.
GALLERY
THINGS TO DO
Nature walks
There are many coastal walks easily accessible from the house. Scarborough to Taylor’s Mistake, Flowers Track, and the Esplanade are some.
Sumner Beach
Below the house lies Sumner Beach. The beach is a great place to walk, run, swim or relax on a nice day.
Water Sports
Sumner beach is a great place to try out a range of different water sports. There is often good swell for surfing and SUP boarding as well kayaking and even sailing.
Sunday Market
The Sumner Market is held every Sunday from 10am - 2pm, on the corner of Marriner Street and the Esplanade. It is a great place to explore some cool craft stalls, food trucks and meet some locals!
Local Cafes
In Sumner Village there are plenty of great cafes to enjoy good food and coffee. Some of these include: Dot Com, Utopia Ice and Joe's Garage.
Christchurch City
Just a 20 minute drive away is Christchurch city. The city is a great place to learn more about the history of New Zealand, shop, see the sights and explore in a more urban environment.
GUEST REVIEW
AVAILABILITY CALENDAR
ACCESS DISCLOSURE
SERH is a very secluded retreat, which unfortunately means that there is limited vehicular access. Cars should be parked beside the Scarborough pool (Marked on map below), as there is no parking or easy drop off access at SERH. From there, getting to SERH involves a ten minute uphill walk from the Scarborough pool, and then a short walk up a steep uneven zigzag path that is not wheelchair friendly.