Ripples Retreat is a luxurious, handcrafted cabin located in a secluded and tranquil area in central North Island. The cabin offers breathtaking views and a stunning river right at your doorstep, making it an idyllic holiday destination.
Exclusive access to the scenic farm track allows you to enjoy spectacular views over the Hobbit bluffs and towards Mt Ruapehu. Imagine proposing to your loved one at sunset from this stunning vantage point!
Our carefully designed studio cabin features a main living area with a king-size bed, as well as a separate nook with a double bed and single bunk. There is also a separate bathroom with a luxurious double shower. Outside, you'll find a remarkable outdoor bath surrounded by ferns with picturesque views over the river and farmland.
Just under three hours from Auckland airport, Ripples is situated on our 3rd generation family farm, making it a convenient central hub for exploring New Zealand. There's plenty to do in the surrounding area, including day trips to the Waitomo Caves for glowworm tours and adventure activities, visiting the beautiful West Coast beaches, cycling the Timber Trail, or taking a jetboat tour down the Whanganui River to the Bridge to Nowhere.
Once at Ripples, you can enjoy activities like wild swimming, kayaking, trout fishing, and taking leisurely walks to experience breathtaking views of Mt Ruapehu and Ngauruhoe. The nearby village of Piopio offers great seasonal food and local craft shops, and the scenic Waitanguru Falls are just a short drive away. Our luxury cabin is also equipped with a variety of games, puzzles, and books to cater to everyone's interests.
The cabin accommodates 5-6 people and features a double outdoor bath, an indoor double shower in a stylish black bathroom, and a king-size four-poster bed. There is also a cleverly designed separate nook with a double and single bunk, as well as a large window seat that can be made into an extra king single bed.
The fully equipped designer kitchen, complete with an outdoor BBQ, allows you to prepare meals using the best amenities. Choose to dine al fresco at the large outdoor picnic table with farm views, on the covered deck with stunning river views, or inside at our upcycled timber table. An espresso coffee machine with ground beans is also provided for your morning pick-me-up, and you can indulge in our homemade Ice-cube tea infusions made with organic farm produce and award-winning honey.
Nestled in a bend in the Mangaotaki River, the cabin offers a beautiful freshwater river swimming pool right in front. The area is perfect for trout fishing from October to June for those with a valid NZ fishing license. For safety reasons, we only accept children aged 6 and above, and unfortunately, we are unable to accommodate infants. Additionally, individuals at risk of drowning must be supervised by a sober adult at all times.
Ripples Retreat is an extension of our 3rd generation sheep and beef farm in the heart of the Mangaotaki Valley, 45 minutes south of Waitomo Caves off SH 3. Opened in June 2020, our modern luxe cabin features an interior adorned with unique handmade items and special details. The cabin was designed with couples and families in mind to provide the perfect holiday experience. Situated where Gandolf's (Ian McKellen's) caravan was parked during the filming of The Hobbit in 2011, the location has also been used for other movies and major commercials.
You can also work from this incredible location with free Wi-Fi and both indoor and outdoor tables for your convenience. Alternatively, you can simply relax and immerse yourself in nature in the outdoor bathtub, surrounded by native ferns and the soothing sounds of the nearby stream. Every detail has been considered to enhance your stay, from the sustainably upcycled vanity, large sunny window seat, and open shelving for your belongings to the thoughtfully designed handmade beds where you can store your bags.
Take a nap on our comfortable outdoor loungers or the macramé double swing chair, and snuggle up with cozy blankets under the radiant outdoor heater, which is perfect for chilly evenings and nights when combined with the ambient garden lighting.
Capture the perfect picture on the rope swing hanging from the Paulownia tree, and you'll never have to worry about bringing water as we provide an unlimited supply of fresh filtered drinking water, helping to reduce plastic waste. The cabin also features a timber ceiling fan, creating a Bali-like vibe on warm summer days while maintaining a comfortable temperature without the need for over-drying air-conditioning.
To encourage a digital detox and promote a connection with nature, we've intentionally omitted a TV from the cabin. However, there is "two bar" cellphone reception on the Spark network.
