Destinations

We’ve stayed at Mahuru Retreat just north of the Kaikōura town centre several times now and it’s hard to beat in terms of a warm welcome, value, and comfort. Host Jen (and her cute dog companions) always provide genuine hospitality, from the fresh flowers from her garden in every room, to the freshly baked bread…

Family members gifted us an experience for Christmas a couple of years ago and we finally redeemed it in the form of a half-day trip to Motuara Island with Beachcomber Cruises based in Picton. It was an 7:30am check in but the need for an early morning breakfast and coffee was well catered for by…

Spending more than 25 years doing anything indicates commitment, and for Ara Roa hosts Paul and Susanne, that’s a commitment to welcoming visitors to stay in a truly special part of Aotearoa/New Zealand. Whāngarei Heads and the Whananaki coastline is in Northland (about two-and-a-half hours north of Auckland). If you live in the North it’s…

Stillness and the natural environment is at the heart of the Maruia River Retreat experience. The sound of the swiftly flowing Maruia River and the native bird life accompany you throughout each day of nurturing presence here; while swimming in the outdoor magnesium pool or forest bathing in the stream-fed outdoor spa, or stepping out…