The Sign of the Takahe is a castle-style heritage building halfway up Cashmere Hill at 127 Hackthorne Rd in Cashmere, Christchurch, about ten minutes from the city centre, and holds a 5.0 rating from its single Google review. Its grand neo-Gothic rooms are set up for functions and weddings, with the Lower Grounds Cafe operating downstairs. Heritage attractions like this reward a slow look: the stonework, heraldry and grounds are as much the draw as any exhibit, and a hilltop setting throws in the panorama for free. Buildings that double as event venues often have rooms in private use, so it pays to check what visitors can see on the day. The Port Hills light is kindest early or late, which photographers especially appreciate. Perched above the city with mountain vistas beyond, it makes a natural stop on any Cashmere or Port Hills outing.