The best place we've ever stayed! The owners Debbie and Ernst are a lovely, friendly couple who go to great efforts to make your stay amazing, from the spa pool, to the tree top bathhouse that looks down into the beautiful native bush with river below and the sound of running water all topped off with candles - very romantic. All over the property there are private little seating areas, lots of bush walks, swimming holes, lookout points, waterfalls, hammocks, glow worms and a cosy little fire pit (ring) which itself is a work of art and you can cook on the rim - awesome set up. Breakfast is made from fresh, local and homemade ingredients. Even arriving and driving over the two fords is a real adventure the road into the lodge tells you that you're going somewhere special! We can't say enough about this beautiful place we'll definitely be going back again and telling friends about it! Thanks Wairua Lodge

The only thing we didn't like was leaving

Nestled deep within the emerald embrace of the rainforest, the River Retreat wasn't just a place to stay; it was an experience that rejuvenated the soul. From the moment we arrived, the symphony of the jungle enveloped us – the gentle rush of the pristine river, the chirping chorus of unseen birds, and the rustling whispers of leaves creating a natural lullaby. the retreat offered fantastic opportunities to immerse ourselves in the rainforest's wonders. Guided walks led us through trails teeming with vibrant flora and fauna, revealing hidden waterfalls and sharing the secrets of this ancient ecosystem. What truly set the River Retreat apart was the warmth and genuine hospitality of the staff. They anticipated our needs with a smile, offering insightful local knowledge and ensuring every aspect of our stay was comfortable and memorable. The delicious meals, prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, were a highlight

Cozy and modern rooms that were spotless. Large bathroom with good water pressure. Our room had everything we needed. We loved how quiet and peaceful it was! The lodge also came with a full kitchen and grill that we used to cook our food. There was also a beautiful outdoor dining table. It was raining the whole two days we were there so we unfortunately did not get to use the outdoor fire pit. There are also short hiking trails around the lodge that are well maintained with swimming holes and river crossings. In short, you won’t run out of things to do. The continental breakfast was one of the best we had with homemade bread, local honey, jam, fruit, yogurt and fresh eggs. The drive to the lodge does require going off road and crossing a small river so would not recommend arriving after dusk. Overall, we really enjoyed our stay!

This place is incredible, the lodge is situated in the middle of a very beautiful valley. The scenery and grounds are so peaceful and secluded yet with every comfort you could want. The buildings and facilities are perfectly equipped down to every detail, the breakfast that is provided is exceptional (consisting from homemade and local produce and even honey from the bees that are kept at the lodge). The owners and hosts Ernst and Debbie were so lovely and helpful and have clearly work very hard to make the retreat what it is.

everything was perfect and far exceeded anything I had expected.

The retreat grounds are beautiful, like arriving in a magical paradise. Debbie and Ernst have thoughtfully provided many different experiences for their guests. We enjoyed a nightime S'morse roasting which was all set up for us ahead of time. The oudoor under the stars hottub easily accomodated all 6 of us. We enjoyed the very generous breaskfast. The rooms were beautifully decorated and renovated with everything you good possibly need including nice fluffy bathrobes. We also appreciated the well maintained hiking trails around the property.

The location is a bit windy to get to up in the hills. We were able to manage the river crossing over a cement drive to the resort easier than at first we thought. So do not worry when you see this.

We loved the setting of the lodge, the rainforest is beautiful, I swam in the river, climbed down the waterfall. Walked the tracks, and had a bath in the outside bath. The room was really comfortable, the shower was lovely. There was a great choice of breakfast options, cereals, muesli, fruit, yogurt, freshly home baked bread. Eggs and cold meats.

The only downside to the lodge is the fact that it is at least a 15 minute drive away from the towns and beaches on the coast. But that is what you accept for staying in such a peaceful location high in the rainforest.

From the moment you arrive at Wairua lodge, you will know that you have just made the best decision in booking this retreat. The hosts have created a most beautiful and welcoming environment for their guests. Our family thoroughly enjoyed our stay and the children didn't want to leave. The breakfast provisions were delicious and plentiful with lots of items were locally sourced (fresh eggs from their own chickens - yum!). We originally had a tour booked our of Whitianga that was cancelled due to high winds. It truly was a blessing, because it meant we got to spend a whole day enjoying this beautiful spot, relaxing and rejuvenating. We enjoyed the night sky spa, the bath house, the rainforest walks, cooking on the feuerring, toasting marshmallows and just spending time together in this beautiful spot. The hosts Debbie and Ernst have really thought of everything, with provisions of walking shoes, gumboots and shovels for Hot Water Beach. We stayed in the self-contained Kiwi cabin and it was amazing, but the site also had the most beautiful and clean communal kitchen I have seen in my travels. The directions were great and everything was well signed so it was easy to find. I would highly recommend you include this place as an item on your itinerary, not just a place to lay your head at night as you trip around the North Island.

This is one of the best places we have ever stayed. We came to celebrate our anniversary and it was such a great choice! They've thought of everything.. The breakfast is amazing, the firepit area is a great place to hang out (and cook on the fire ring), the rooms are well sized and comfortable and the rainforest bath is such an amazing idea that we really loved! Definitely make sure you take the time to explore the trails in the bush - and swim in the river. We left feeling refreshed and plan to recommend Wairua to all our friends and anyone else who'll listen.

We had a very lovely time staying here. Shout out to our wonderful hosts Debbie and Ernst, who've created such a lovely haven! the peace, and time away from the buzz was wonderful, walking up to nature. Simply enjoyed ourselves so much! 1) loved the trails and walks within the premise, we did those with our 5 year old. These were great to start the mornings or to do at dusk, enjoying the tranquility and creating memories. 2) campfire - perfect to wrap the day up as we enjoyed marsh mellows, cookies and chocolates. 3) breakfast - everything was fresh and I particularly loved the honey!! it's from their own bees!! mornings were chilly but perfect to sit at the outdoor area to enjoy a good breakfast in nature! 4) facilities - there's a shared kitchen and dining / lounge area where we had dinner couple of times, thought it was a nice option that it's separated from the room itself. While we didn't use the hot tub and Jacuzzi, it's really only because we had too much to do over too little time! 5) room - definitely enjoyed our room! cleanliness, amenities, it's all perfect especially with Debbie and Ernst who were thoughtful to prepare an extra bed for our boy.

It could be a nice addition for laundry facilities for longer staying guests.

perfect stay in remote lush surroundings!!! Debbie & Aschy welcome you with homemade bread, local honey, fresh eggs and a special warmheartedness. Their attention to detail shows in the design and maintenance of the units and the surrounding, which provides ample space for privacy with various seating / lounging areas, jacuzzi and private open air bath tub!!! WARNING: You may NOT want to leave to explore nearby beaches or wineries of the Coromandel peninsula, but just stay and enjoy 😉

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