There are times in life when you just need to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and treat your body and mind to a little TLC. Why pine for some exotic overseas spot when our own Aotearoa has so many beautiful places you can head to and restore your soul?
With venues across both the North and South Island, there are wellness retreats, eco-friendly spots and utterly stunning views to calm your soul.
Here's where to find the best retreats in New Zealand.
Wai Ariki Hot Springs And Spa
Rotorua
New kid on the block, Wai Ariki Hot Springs And Spa, has been six years in the making and combines luxurious relaxation with wellness shaped by Ngāti Whakaue culture, healing practices and manākitanga (caring hospitality). Settled on the edge of the Rotorua lakefront, the spa features Te Āhuru Mōwai, a range of Sanctuary Bathing Experiences in rich geothermal mud; and Wai Whakaora, a multi-sensory, restorative journey that pairs heat and cold, a herbal pool and a mud experience. The blissful retreat is now accepting bookings for August 1 2023 onwards.
Mana Retreat
Coromandel
Nestled in the hills of the Coromandel Ranges, a sanctuary awaits. Enter: Mana Retreat, an established and beloved retreat that hosts a range of health and wellness retreat options that speak, in some way, to mind-body education, spiritual exploration and renewal. Retreats, workshops and events include Open Floor dance, meditation, restorative yoga, mindful self-compassion, singing and qi gong.
Aro Hā
Glenorchy
For breathtaking views and an experience like no other, stay at Aro Hā Retreat, just outside of Queenstown. If you’ve been to Queenstown you'll understand the beauty of the place, if not, you're in for an extra special treat. With eco-accommodation and permaculture based self-sufficiency, this gorgeous retreat is designed for rejuvenation of the human spirit. Located in the stunning Southern Alps, the ‘wellness adventure’ includes yoga, strength training, spa therapy, Sub Alpine hiking, massages and a wholefoods vegetarian menu.
Te Wahi Ora
Piha
If you're in the mood for a restful getaway, Te Wahi Ora might just be a bit of you. The women's only retreat takes daily admin like cooking and cleaning off your hands, with all meals provided and breakfast delivered to your room. You’re very much encouraged to do as little as possible… or as much as you like curating your own experience from add-on services like counselling, spiritual direction, Bowen treatment (a form of bodywork that involves gently stretching fascia) and therapeutic massages. Accommodation options range from a deluxe sea view suite to a restored retro caravan.
Earth Energies Sanctuary
Mangatarata
Amidst the rolling hills of the Waikato is Earth Energies Sanctuary. Sprawling across 200 acres, this ultimate relaxation retreat seeks to bring balance to body and mind. Choose from half, full day, or overnight packages to release stress and soothe anxiety, while nourishing creativity and mindfulness. Opt for the overnight stay and you'll enjoy a welcome package brimming with local produce, and awaken to a farm-fresh breakfast. Delightful.
Anahata Retreat
Takaka
To nurture your spiritual side, visit Anahata Retreat. It’s located in the midst of the native beech forest, overlooking Golden Bay at the top of the South Island. This residential eco-yoga retreat will have you learning about living sustainably and exploring different variations of yoga. You will learn about the yogic lifestyle as a way of living and your attitude towards life. We’re thinking of it as a spiritual awakening.
Ridge Country Retreat
Waitao
If roughing it and living off the land isn’t quite your thing, then head to the Ridge Country Retreat, which provides luxury accommodation. This tranquil place is tucked away in native bush in the Papamoa Ranges. Stay for a yoga or wellness retreat, and enjoy the panoramic views while taking a dip in the geothermal pools. Add to this numerous bush walks, beauty treatments, spa and pamper packages and you've got a whole lot of relaxation on the cards, whatever you're into.
Solscape
Raglan
Head to Raglan and get your yogi on at Solscape. This surfer town will have you head-over-heels for the relaxed vibes and adventures to be had. Solscape is an eco-friendly retreat located at the foot of Mt Karioi, providing breathtaking views over the Tasman Sea. Attend courses and workshops in sustainability, enjoy plant-based eco-cuisine and practise yoga. For those wanting more of an adventure, take a surf lesson at the Solscape Surf School, go horse riding, rock climbing or kayaking.
Cape South
Hawke's Bay
This holistic health and wellness retreat will have you glowing from the inside out when you return to normal life. Cape South is located in Cape Kidnappers of Hawke’s Bay. The retreat provides individualised therapy and will assist you in gaining wellness on all levels of your being—physical, mental, emotional, energetic and spiritual. Choose from a day clinic, two to seven-day packages or even longer if needed.
For more Earth-loving vibes, connect with nature on one of New Zealand's best walks.
Image credit: Aro Ha, Mana Retreat, Aro Ha, Earth Energies Sanctuary, Ridge Country Retreat, Cape South