About

Owners – Gene Bennett and Marianne Deans

Flaxes Retreat is all about people. Whether you are part of a club, wanting a relaxed environment for a family reunion or looking for a spacious venue for your wedding, Flaxes can provide the perfect space to allow everyone to come together.

We have accommodation in eight cabins for up to 28 people and plenty of sheltered  camping spots alongside the tranquil Shag River

Self catering is easy with a fully equipped kitchen and large BBQ area and the hammocks and comfy lounge provide somewhere to put your feet up.

The undercover courtyard can seat up to 80 people and there is a servery area enabling larger groups to come and relax.

Marshmallows are optional for enjoying a few wines around the brazier in the evenings.

We purchased Flaxes (Camp Armstrong as it was formerly known) in 2005 and bought with us practical experience in building, landscaping and hospitality. Gene was one of thousands of Otago school children who came to Camp Armstrong during the 1960s-1990s

In a world often more focused on socialising via social media we are both passionate about providing a place which enables groups of people to come together, enjoy quality time and make memories. Our goal has been to develop Camp Armstrong into Flaxes: an affordable multi functional venue for all to enjoy.

We are continuing to improve upon and develop our beautiful wee spot next to the river and enjoy sharing it with people who can come in, close the gates and enjoy good company in a safe and friendly environment.

Flaxes is home to a range of wild birds and we are dedicated to protecting the local habitat. For this reason dogs are not allowed on the grounds.

Camp Armstrong and Flaxes Retreat History

Flaxes began life in the 1950s when volunteers from the Dunedin Teachers College began work on buildings and plantings. It was used as a resource centre for trainee teachers.

In 1959 James Armstrong the then Principal of the Teachers College and the man responsible for its value to the College retired and as a parting gift the College renamed the Centre to Armstrong Activity Centre.

The Otago Education Board then began to use the again renamed “Camp Armstrong” for outdoor education to Otago schools from the mid 1960s until its closure in 1990’s