Reviews
What our guests say
MEDIA REVIEWS
Julie wrote in the Maruia guestbook (Jan 2023)
"We savoured our stay in every way. So grateful for a delightful, delicious, restorative stay.
Beate & Jan Bernard wrote in the Maruia guestbook (Jan 2023)
"We have enjoyed our stay more than believable. Your lodge is marvelous. The nature is great and your hospitality is fabulous. Thank you for all your kindness."
Mayank, Triccie, Anya & Mada wrote in the Maruia guestbook (Jan 2023)
"The perfect intersection between "natural" and "'intentional"; with well-considered details evident everywhere.
Arthur & Julie wrote in the Maruia guestbook (Jan 2023)
"The food has been superb - innovative and fresh - stand alone excellent. Just a great place to retreat to."
Jeff & Christine wrote in the Maruia guestbook (Jan 2023)
“What an incredibly calm and peaceful place! We spent three nights here and got the full VIP treatment. Spa and sauna by the river, insightful yoga instruction and chauffeured your around the grounds. We love the ecological work being done here and are very impressed with the self-sufficiency."
Michael Nees wrote on Google (Nov 2022)
My wife and I had a wonderful weekend retreat at Maruia River. Hosts Cristina & Lasse plus their team were extremely caring and thoughtful. The chalet bush setting is wonderful and the food experience was amazing. Plus, the yoga classes in the mornings. Highly recommended for anyone wanting to 'get away' and having a rejuvenating break from busy lives.
Enjoy life wrote on Trip Advisor (Oct 2022)
“Had the privilege of staying at Maruia River on a Wellness retreat. A stunning location with the most kind and authentically caring hosts. It's an easy drive from Nelson, and then you arrive at a destination it boasts an idyllic forest spa pool accompanied by an infra red sauna - where you can have your music playing through bluetooth as you gaze at the bush out the glass frontage. Truly magical. And then there is the wholesome and delicious food - you body, mind and soul are recharged, reinvigorated and re-vitalised - definitely recommend, can't wait to return :)”
Tanya P wrote on TripAdvisor (Sept 2022)
I attended a three day wellness retreat at Maruia. I made the most of the hot tub and infrared sauna in the beech forest, the finnish sauna inside, massage, yoga and delicious food - as well as the transformational sessions with wellness coach Rachel Grunwell. Cristina and Lasse are very personable and caring, and have a lot of vision and energy. The yoga, massage and food are all top notch. The retreat is situated in about 200 hectares of almost untouched mature native beech forest, contributing the feeling of removing to an untouched place. This is the best break from work I have ever had.
Kelly B wrote on TripAdvisor (Jul 2022)
Despite attending a Writer's Retreat here ...
I can't articulate just how special Maruia Retreat is...
Writing workshops with Kerry Sunderland, Yoga with Christina, Soul Food by Lassi, the hills and river of Maruia, all colliding with Matariki Weekend created a very special event laced with magic. The environment holds space for the things you need that aren't necessarily outlined on the program; things like gaining perspective on life, nurturing and nourishing yourself, disconnecting from stress to rebalance, meeting like minded people that help move you forward in one way or another.
If you are looking at Maruia's page, your inner voice is probably calling out for these things, my advice would be listen and step in - make it happen. Take the time and create the space for restoration in one of the most special places I have ever been.
Thank you team Maruia, that was the step-change I needed in my creative wheelhouse, my yoga practice, and my mindset around work-life balance.
Arohanui Kelly
WestonRoad wrote on TripAdvisor (May 2022)
We arrived with great expectations which were more than adequately fulfilled. We were offered a choice of villas and chose one close to the main building as I have a walking difficulty and stairs are not my favourite thing.
The options of activities are varied and I am sure will fulfil he requirements of those more fit than my 88 year old body. We were content to relax in the quiet bush surroundings, take the occasional walk to the airfield and other easy ones.
Then every morning and evening sit down to the great breakfasts and dinners served in the most enjoyable surroundings.
We highly recommend this spot to get away from your daily routine and enjoy life’s offerings.
HighMaintenance2015 wrote on TripAdvisor (Mar 2022)
I was fortunate to visit Maruia River Retreat in late January for the Rachel Grunwell retreat. An easy drive from Nelson airport, this is a beautiful relaxing nurturing spot. And wow the food was an unexpected delight…absolutely first class meals with local and home grown produce. ! Amazing hosts in Cristina, Lasse and Naenae. Cristina’s yoga classes were fabulous and she has such a deep understanding of the body. The forest bathing and outdoor sauna was so relaxing. Definitely a spot to unwind.
Dianna “Dee” Birchfield West wrote on Google (Feb 2022)
We booked through a third party, and had to reschedule due to covid changing our plans for the original booking. It was impossible to reach the third party booking company and we were in the area for a funeral so were very keen to visit and recharge after celebrating our friend's life along with his beloved family and friends in Christchurch that Friday. Luckily, Christina went above and beyond to help us out. She booked us in good faith and we ended up having one of the best, most relaxing, and enjoyable weekends away in years (and we travel and research retreats and accommodation as part of our new post pandemic career, so please don't think we say any of this flippantly). The food was amazing, the views and grounds were like something out of a epic fantasy adventure novel and the yoga was exactly what we needed. Treat yourself to this amazing rejuvenating experience, it is a special and remarkable place managed by truly beautiful people.
Wendy wrote on TripAdvisor (Jan 2022)
Beautiful secluded spot with no disturbance of outside world. Learnt yoga, felt comfortable and very welcome. Lovely staff and food was a highlight. Beautiful rooms. Hot tub and sauna overlooking river and native birds everywhere!! Recommend for busy minds to unwind! Will be back one day :)
Juliette Sivertsen, NZ Herald (June 2021)
The best wellness retreats in New Zealand
“It really doesn't matter I'd forgotten to pack swimwear. I still manage to get in a few hours of forest bathing, and, by night, I bathe in the forest. Yes, those are two completely different things – and they're both exceedingly good for the soul.
The river is surprisingly warm on this 32C summer day but, realising I am "swimsuit-less," I leave the glistening and plump-bodied trout to make the most of the crystal-clear mountain-fed river that flows by the Maruia River Retreat, bound for Maruia Falls.
In this stretch of river, with its deep and tranquil pools, trout can be seen languidly slow-dancing just below the surface, then suddenly lunging, open-mouthed, to snap up flying insects as they hover down to quench their tiny bug-sized thirsts. This is indeed a fine habitat for fish – unless, of course, avid fly-fishermen are spending a weekend at the retreat.”
NZ Herald Travel (June 2021)
New Zealand’s most sustainably focused luxury lodges
“In 200ha of beech forest, river and mountains between Nelson and Christchurch, Maruia River Retreat experiences include forest bathing, gourmet dining, river rafting and more esoteric encounters - spa, yoga, massage, naturopathy and guided nature walks. One may fly into the private airstrip.”
Juliette Sivertsen, NZ Herald (June 2021)
Wellness with wow factor: NZ’s most luxurious spa retreats
“For therapeutic nature experiences, head to Maruia River Retreat. Unwind and get close to nature with forest bathing, a Finnish sauna and hot tub, infrared chroma therapy sauna, guided nature walks as well as yoga, meditation and naturopathy consultation.”
Naomi Arnold, Stuff (Feb 2021)
“Luxury accommodation can sometimes feel impersonal, steeped in pretentiousness without real connection or warmth. But that’s not the case at Maruia River Retreat, tucked beside a wide green trout fishing river in the upper South Island.”
NZ Herald Travel Magazine (Feb 2021)
“Nestled on a gentle slope above the river within a 200-hectare private haven, of which 180 hectares are native beech forest, Maruia River Retreat is just that: a retreat, a salve for the soul, a place to re-connect with your partner or a place to clear your mind of life's clutter.”
Jessica Cameron, NZ Herald Travel Magazine (Feb 2021)
“There's arguably no better place to forest bathe than in the Tasman's native bushland.”
Jessica Cameron, NZ Herald Travel Magazine (Feb 2021)
“In spite of a certain global pandemic — or perhaps because of it — it's quickly made a name for itself as one of the most destination-worthy spots on the South Island.”
Lorna Subritzky, NZ Herald Travel Magazine (Feb 2020)
“A tonic for the soul and a treat for the senses. Retreat, and recharge.”
Sunday Star Times: Travel Supplement - Escape, New Zealand (3 Feb 2020)
“In its refreshed form, the retreat offers a luxurious minibreak for people who consider luxury to be shades of green and blue rather than gold or shiny.
If you're after a classy getaway with a strong wellness and nature vibe, head here.”
Good Magazine, New Zealand (Dec 2019)
“Opening the veranda door of our villa welcomed the sounds of a bubbling creek tumbling past nearby. Just being here is deeply meditative. You can just sit, or lie back on the sofa, and enjoy the view, or close your eyes and listen to the water dancing over the stones as it flows to join Maruia River washing away worries and stresses as it goes.”
guest REVIEWS
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Lydia (July 2021)
I have been lucky enough to attend 2 retreats at Maruia River Retreat and cannot speak highly enough of my experiences there. For me what makes this place such a special destination is the hospitality. From the moment you arrive, you are warmly greeted by the hosts and your bags are taken to your rooms. There is a level of consideration and attentiveness in their hosting that I have not experienced elsewhere. Cristina, Lasse, Nanae and Ana really care about your experience and that is evident in every detail. When I returned, I felt like I was visiting friends- the hosting is so genuine and personable. Cristine and Lasse are also fascinating to chat to about all manner of topics. The accommodation is beautiful- the towels are plush, the linens are top quality, the decor is tasteful and restful. The accommodation emphasizes the natural beauty of the place and invites you to notice your surroundings- with lovely balconies and beautifully landscaped gardens. I loved forest bathing in the outdoor hot tub and using the sauna with the glass door so you can peer into the draping beech forest. The yoga classes are a highlight- with Cristine and Lasse both having detailed knowledge of both anatomy but also of the ancient yogic traditions. The food is exceptional. Locally sourced where possible- the meals are nutritious, wholefood but decadent in the right ways. Staying at Maruia River Retreat is nourishing. It reminds me to slow down and pay attention to the beauty of simple things- a nourishing meal, the beauty of a beech forest, some deep breaths, a good night of sleep. If you get the chance to go, I so recommend it. Thank you Cristine, Lasse, Nanae, Ana.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Graeme (July 2021)
We first went to Maruia River Retreat late2020 as Covid prevented overseas travel. We had no expectations . What a revelation! Great accomodation in villas with balconies facing a pristine fast flowing river. Great beds, towels and linen. So, so relaxing.Drinks and gourmet three course meals in a beautiful main lodge with caring hosts Lasse and Christina and their amazing staff (Nanae a standout.)
Add to that morning yoga with both hosts being expert caring teachers adjusting the level of the practice to the participants. Then there is the stainless hottub set in the beech forest with riverview, the glass fronted sauna in a similar location and the amazing bushwalk.
The food is locally sourced as far as possible from their organic garden. We left feeling we were part of the Maruia family.
Fast forward to July this year. Our trip to Sydney was canceled due to Covid. An email was received from Maruia for a weekend yoga and writers retreat. They had a cancelation due to the border closure, so off we went.
Second time round is usually harder to be impressed. However the ethereal mid winter cold,mist and short daylight hours made it even more special This is a great location for couples, a special birthday or group celebration. It is as busy or quiet as you want it. We have already booked for next March. FIVE BIG STARS.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Diane (July 2021)
I spent an unforgettable 3 nights and 4 days at a Writing/Yoga retreat at the Maruia River Retreat. The property is magical, the staff warm and welcoming, the villas clean and lovely, the food healthy and delicious.
The writing and yoga went so well together. As a writer, I deepened my writing. As a person who had done yoga in the past, I renewed my commitment to include it in my life again.
The retreat also operates as a lodge, so if you have a chance to go, don't miss it!
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Christian (June 2021)
Our stay at Maruia was incredible, we both feel so refreshed from our time there.
The attention from Nanae, Lasse and Anna was so personalised and genuine we felt very at home
The facilities were incredible including our room upgrade which was a lovely and appreciated touch
The food was so thoughtful and delicious we will be talking about the dark chocolate granola and eye fillet for time to come
It is often used as a throwaway line but we have both commented that the first time in a long time, our minds feel very clear - a rare feeling.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Laura (Feb 2021)
An experience everyone needs to have in their lifetime! The food was absolutely delicious, by far the best dining experience we have ever had – so much flavour and you could really tell how much passion went into creating each dish. The owners have truly gone above and beyond to create a luxury nature experience, with every detail taken care of. Even the little touches such as the beautiful floral arrangements crafted by the gardener, the cosy bath robes, the insect repellent in the bathrooms and the fresh fruit on the dining table make all the difference.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Nancy (Feb 2021)
Lovely, Zen-like Atmosphere. I recently spent two nights at Maruia River Retreat and experienced the most peaceful. relaxing stay. The location is beautiful. Floating in the hot tub among the trees at the riverside was amazing. I've never relaxed so much. Staff are friendly and knowledgeable about the area. They make you feel very welcome and at home. Local, fresh ingredients are used in the meals which were all delicious. The suites are beautifully appointed with views of the river and hills. I will definitely be returning to enjoy another wonderful holiday. Thank you Maruia River Retreat.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Thomas & Vivien (Jan 2021)
My wife and I had an excellent, relaxing stay the last 2 days. The setting is unique, all the modern amenities in a natural environment. Every member of the host team makes you feel very welcome - like your family. Fantastic people who show a great deal of passion in what they are doing. The walk through the forests is eye-opening, showing very much nature at work. All the meals are fine dining level and my wife had the “best” massage in NZ .... we highly recommend this place to anyone who wants to enjoy a special, non-hotel like experience.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Nancy L. (July 2020)
Wonderful place to stay! I attended a yoga retreat here and loved it. Beautiful place to say and some of the best yoga classes I have taken. Food superb, massages wonderful... You have to try this place!
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Alice C. (July 2020)
What a stunning place. So quiet, tranquil and calming. The food is to die for and the staff are so kind and friendly. I felt so nourished and present in this space. Worth every penny.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Catherine C. (July 2020)
Thank you Cristina and Lasse for a wonderful retreat, spectacular scenery, wonderful Yoga classes. The food was amazing and I loved all the local ingredients you had sourced. Our room was beautifully appointed, warm and very clean.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Meg B. (Jan 2020)
We attended the Breath Of Life workshop with Lasse and totally recommend it. This workshop is the perfect antidote to our busy modern lives, and I needed it more than I had realised. Total attention to detail. Service was impeccable and faultless, but welcoming and unpretentious. Can’t wait to go back.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Carolyn Enting, Good Magazine (Dec 2019)
The ultimate wellbeing retreat, rain or shine, Maruia River Retreat is a place of deep rest and rejuvenation where you can relax and disconnect from everyday busy and reconnect with yourself. Lasse and Cristina know how to create a luxury experience for guests. You’ll leave feeling healthier and wealthier.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Tina A. (Nov 2019)
The moment you drive into Maruia River Retreat you are greeted with a beautiful enchanting lodge, breath-taking scenery, the tranquillity of nature’s beauty, outstanding attention to detail and interior design throughout, exquisite fine dining experiences and a retreat that took my breath away. Superb!
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Kristy M. (Nov 2019)
Treat yourself - to the less worn path - and you will discover a taonga (treasure/ jewel). An easy base to day trip to the West Coast, then return and relax. The luxury is inviting and comfortable and the food- fresh from the onsite garden and local producers is exquisite and a surprise to all senses.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Sunniva H. (Oct 2019)
Peaceful, quiet, the perfect place to go and truly unwind. The rooms were beautiful, comfiest bed I've slept in ages. Did a couple of yoga sessions too (highly recommend, Cristina is a wonderful teacher) so I left feeling very calm! Everyone that works there obviously has a real passion for what they're doing.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Bridget P. (Oct 2019)
I am a nature lover, and the Maruia River Retreat did not disappoint. My favourite part of Maruia is their locavore dining experience - local, seasonal and holistic produce. The whole staff walk around with massive smiles, you can tell they love what they do and love where they work! Cannot wait to come back!
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Nataliya E. (Sep 2019)
Maruia River Retreat was a luxury oasis. An indulgent escape, from the bush walks, sauna, private yoga lessons to a very impressive culinary experience. The whole package exceeded our expectations and made us feel as if we were somewhere far away from our busy lifestyle. Thank you Maruia, we will be back in a heartbeat!
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Greg P. (Aug 2019)
The food is incredible and presented beautifully, the course timings are spot on, I couldn’t fault it. Staff are super friendly and made our night very enjoyable. To top it all off you are in the most beautiful setting, looking forward to our next visit!
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Robert H. (Jul 2019)
A destination to delight the senses! Such a stunning spot where you feel at one with nature. We experienced fine dining, delicious wines and craft beers at this beautiful hideaway. The perfect spot to get away from it all and completely unwind. Lasse and Cristina are fantastic hosts. We can't wait to return.