Maruia River Retreat

The freshly baked muffins at both ends of our stay were such a treat. We also loved the beginner yoga class with Christina, forest bathing in the hot tub, and the infrared sauna. Lasse's guided forest walk was wonderful, too. He's incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about conservation. We booked two nights at Maruia River Retreat through Luxury Escapes while road-tripping around the South Island, and it turned out to be the best decision of our holiday. The rooms are spacious and well appointed, the meals were amazing, and the caring, dedicated staff gave us next-level service. Thanks so much to Christina, Lasse, Jackie, and Vittoria for such a relaxing, rejuvenating stay.

The yoga classes were deeply enriching, and the forest walk was a real delight. The beautiful grounds and exceptional food added to the stay, but most of all, Cristina, Lasse, Jackie, and the whole team put so much heartfelt effort into making us feel welcome, comfortable, and cared for. I have great respect for what they've created at Mariua River Retreat and for all the dedication and hard work they put into it.

The yoga, fresh delicious food, forest bathing, and guided walk through the forest all made for a soothing, relaxing stay. The staff are next level and do so much to make your time there memorable. From the moment you enter this unique property, you're carried into a place of peace, quiet, and kindness. What a special place. Thanks to the team for making it so wonderful.

I've stayed here as a guest and also led a retreat, so I've seen the care from both sides. Cristina and Lasse run Maruia River Retreat themselves and are genuinely invested in every guest's well-being. Their personal, heartfelt service and the team's dedication feel rare. It’s a kind of luxury that's hard to put into words, more like being welcomed by old friends into their private sanctuary. When hospitality can feel transactional, this feels like a gift. Resting and trusting others to care for you is one of today's greatest luxuries, in my opinion. Here, you're surrounded by nature in a remote forest retreat, with the team's care making the whole experience feel incredibly rare. Pure magic, with the raw beauty all around and wellness in the air. It's unhurried and easy, with nothing rigid or performative. Just what you need to restore and feel renewed, on your own terms.