Ao Marama Retreat

We are a family who loves our planet. Both originally from New Zealand (Papakura and Bluff) we met in London where our three kids were born. After living overseas for 20 years, and seeing many amazing places and cultures we decided to return to New Zealand to create an experience for people who love to travel yet reduce their impact on the world in which we live. We have become far more aware of – and concerned for – the unprecedented decline of our natural environment. To find solutions we feel can help us make a difference we have recently been studying Permaculture, Solar Power, Organic Gardening and Bee-keeping. We want to implement our little knowledge and gain a whole lot more. This is the beginning of a new journey for us and we welcome you to come and spend time with us in this special corner of the Earth. Duan, Elizabeth, Niko, Bonnie and Mazzy.

Ao Marama Retreat is a former Buddhist Centre set in 16 acres of regenerating native bush on a sheltered hill overlooking Golden Bay, New Zealand. The lodgings include 2 en-suite and 4 non en-suite cabins ( with shared bathrooms ) and a 2 bedroom house - ideal for couples who want the amenities of a full house or a family ( the house is the only option to include kids and babies ). Please take note when selecting your room - so you pick what bathroom amenities you’re happy with . There’s WiFi on the shared sundeck and communal area and in the house - but no tv or WiFi in the cabins . The name can be translated to ‘The Place of Light and Life’ and there is an abundance of both here. Once you arrive you may not want to leave as we have numerous places to enjoy just being in nature from short bush walks to various look out points and a wooden deck for relaxing, dining or even do a sunrise yoga session. All the while being surrounded by plentiful native bird life. But if you do want to leave the retreat on foot you can follow our bush track down to the beautiful and near deserted Collingwood beach for relax, swim or even catch a fish. Walking a further 25 minutes along the beach brings you to Milnthorpe Forest and Scenic reserve.

Collingwood is located at the Western end of Golden Bay. 'The Bay' offers many unique and stunning attractions – from an Eco Tour to Farewell Spit, Walking the Heaphy Trail, Mountain Biking former Gold Mining routes, fishing for Salmon or discovering many of the stunning beaches including Wharariki or experiencing the clearest freshwater in the southern hemisphere at Pupu springs.