Maruia River Retreat

I went to the Maruia River Retreat as a solo traveler in November 2024, joining a yoga retreat where I knew no one other than the teacher. What a magical journey. From the very beginning, with flight delays/changes, Cristina was there, arranging everything to the finest detail. The rest of the week was pure magic. The place is most beautiful; it feels like a high-end hotel in the jungle. The creek, river, trees, and land are beautiful. The food is divine, every day and every meal. I had the forest hottub and suna during the rain, what a serene experience. And have I mentioned two yogi teachers at the facility, Critina and Jacki? Highly recommend this place for couples for a romantic getaway, solo travelers who just want to trek in NZ, or a group of friends for a relaxation week/weekend, maybe enhancing wellness together.

I had the most beautiful stay at the Maruia River Retreat. As a young solo female traveller, Cristina and Lasse made sure to look after me so well and I am so grateful for their kindness. The Retreat is located along the beautiful Maruia river where you can walk some lovely trails as well as swim in the river. I had an amazing and relaxing time with massage therapy as well as many options of hydrotherapy. I cannot wait to travel back to this beautiful retreat with their beautiful owners and staff. Thank you so much all for an amazing stay.

We stayed for four nights and left relaxed but energised. It was a wonderful experience. The best part was the people - Cristina and Lasse are superb hosts - warm, naturally easy, and superb at what they do - Cristina with expert and intuitive yoga instruction and Lasse with his cooking (these are just the tip of their multiple talents!) Jackie was a great host and helper in perpetual smiling motion, and Marci and Katharina were great massage therapists. The surrounding forested hills and river were naturally welcoming and calming, the forest spa and sauna was a deeply immersive experience, and the forest walk was enlightening and enjoyable. We thoroughly recommend this for a relaxing break in nature, with quality dining and pampering. Neil and Anita.

Wow! We feel that words will dilute the purity of this magnificent experience and slice of heaven. Cristina, Lasse and Jackie were a joy to be around. This is a sanctuary to find "quiet", and a restoration of mind body and soul. Sending gratitude and love ❤️

Absolutely loved our 3 night stay. Christina and Lasse are such lovely hosts. We felt cared for from the moment we arrived. The food, yoga, and massages were all exceptional. Loved the magnesium pool and the infrared sauna in the bush. Hope to return some day.

The Self-Love retreat was a revelation. We were cared for so well, with just the right amount of privacy and community. Private or shared yoga, forest bathing, sauna and massage provided full restoration so we could return to our normal lives with a new perspective on our goals and our capacity to achieve them. This sums it up: "The wholeness (people) are looking for may be trapped within themselves by beliefs, attitudes and self doubt. But our wholeness exists in us now...It can be remembered." quoted from author and MD Rachel Naomi Remen.