Summer is finally here and what better way to bid farewell to 2020 and all of the drama that came along with it by taking a summer holiday at a relaxing retreat? Just because we can’t jump on a plane to head overseas this summer, doesn’t mean we can’t explore our own country – and what a country it is. These New Zealand summer holiday retreats that we’ve picked out all have one thing in common, they are designed for the ultimate rest and relaxation, to help you to disconnect from the outside world and reconnect with yourself and your loved ones.
Puketui Forest Escape
Hidden away in a private North Island forest is where you will find Puketui Forest Escape. Located about 10 minutes out of Taupo, this retreat is an eco-friendly, luxury couples escape. Consider it glamping 2.0 – with two pod houses joined together to make a sleeping space and a living space that is fully insulated, heated and contain double glazed windows to ensure that this tranquil escape will be the perfect getaway all year round. Have a soak in the outdoor bath, surrounded by the native forest and enjoy a glass of wine with your loved one for the ultimate romantic summer retreat.
Te Wahi Ora
This retreat is strictly for the ladies – Te Wahi Ora retreat is situated in Piha, West Auckland and is a tranquil escape designed for women to escape from the daily grind and sink into relaxation mode. The retreat caters to all of your meals and even delivers breakfast to your door. You can partake in councilling services and spiritual direction, Bowen treatment and therapeutic massages, or simply just take a stroll down to Piha beach and take in nature and all of it’s beauty. The perfect retreat for a busy mum, a mum and daughter or a best friends trip away.
Te Hine Ruru
Take a drive and up north to Paihia and then a boat over to sunny Russell and here you will find Te Hine Ruru Retreat. Bask in the sun at this dreamy waterfront retreat, which is also situated on a 40 acre property, where you can go swimming, kayaking, walking and enjoy the local cafes. The retreat also offers energy-healing, Reiki and Chakra balancing to help you regain your inner zen.
Tanglewood Retreat
Tanglewood Retreat is based out in Whenuapai, North West of Auckland, born out of a dream to create a space for relaxation, creativity and environmentally sustainable change. The vast retreat features three main buildings each completely unique and made from natural and recycled materials. The Potting Shed is a small building made from salvaged wood and features an outdoor pizza oven. The Aroha Cobhouse is built out of local earth, straw and timber, being able to sleep 2 – 4 people, but the best feature of the retreat is the Pirateship Treehouse – built out of an old boat and recycled timber, nestled up high in the trees – spending a night up there would be an adventure.
Solscape
Our final pick for a summer retreat is Solscape. Located in Raglan, this retreat is for those wanting to partake in courses and workshops in sustainability, enjoy plant-based cuisine and practice yoga. Or if you are more of an adventure seeker then you can also learn how to surf at their very own surf school, go horseback riding, rock climbing or kayaking. This would be the perfect retreat for a young couple or a group of friends wanting to make the most out of their summer holidays.
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