Winter travel

A family affair: Angelika Mant (left) is the new manager at Kimi Ora Eco Resort, taking over from sister Karina Glaser.

In idyllic surroundings, surrounded by birdsong and lush native bush, and overlooking the golden sands of Kaiteriteri, lies a retreat that has been catering to the health and wellbeing of locals and travellers alike for the last 35 years – Kimi Ora Eco Resort. Managing the resort for the last nine years, Karina Glaser and Aaron Dunbar have done a fantastic job of keeping Dietmar Glaser’s vision alive. Continuing with their commitment to protect and preserve the environment, use renewable resources, and support the wider community. Karina and Aaron now welcome Karina’s sister Angelika Mant to her new role as resort manager. “My partner Aaron and I have been operating the resort for nine years now and we are ready for a bit of a change. Bringing Angelika into the fold is wonderful, she has been head of housekeeping for eight years so has a great understanding of the business, and it's nice that it keeps it in the family.” Protecting the environment, water conservation and using renewable resources remain the core values of the resort. The sisters share a passion to hold true to preserving the lodge which is evident in their strong standards that still stand today. “We are still striving at keeping Dad’s vision alive,” says Karina, “and making it an even better, more sustainable business, while minimising waste and the impact we have on the environment as much as possible.” Providing top-quality accommodation, an onsite restaurant, exotic spa treatments, as well as pool and spa facilities is a true labour of love, and Angelika and her husband Blair are excited about the challenge. “It has been a big thing to take on, but Karina has been amazing, and it is great to see this side of the business.”

The Views onsite restaurant is headed by talented chef Mathilde Bertholon who, Angelika says, has been constantly coming up with amazing vegetarian creations. From smoked and sauteed tempeh with spicy mixed green beans and tomato, black lentil puree, and homemade beetroot ketchup, to delicious hot stone pizzas, there is something for everyone at the unique resort restaurant. The sisters believe Kimi Ora’s strengths lie in the ability to combine enriching pampering packages with being located on the doorstep of the great outdoors. A full list of pamper and overnight packages are available on the Kimi Ora website with the ‘Overnight Dinner and Spa Package for Two’ proving to be a popular choice for visitors. This includes studio unit accommodation, use of resort facilities, continental buffet breakfast, a two-course vegetarian dinner and choice of a massage or facial treatment. All people have to do is turn up and relax!

Rest deeply at Maruia River Retreat

Winter offers the perfect excuse to escape, to break out of hibernation mode and embrace the opportunity to explore the wonderful experiences that our country has to offer. Witness magnificent wintery vistas and diverse landscapes, relax, and unwind at luxurious accommodation, unearth exceptional artisan creations, and pamper yourself at exclusive relaxing retreats. Experience the stunning wintery outdoors with a horse trek or discover a plethora of galleries, cafes and museums. Press pause from the ‘every day’ and seize the moment to create everlasting memories.

14th Lane is Marlborough’s newest hotel in a refurbished heritage building conveniently located among a number of the region’s cafes, restaurants and bars and close to most town amenities, walkways and parks; perfect for travelers looking for a bit of luxury and the freedom to be independent. There are eight rooms on offer, each uniquely stylish and spacious with modern tiled private bathrooms, luxury New Zealand made bathroom amenities and all the mod cons to make your stay as relaxed and comfortable as possible. The timeless classic design combined with simple elegance gives a sense of calm and coziness. Rooms are quiet, and rest is assured. On arrival you will be welcomed by warm, friendly and helpful staff or remain contact less if you prefer. Book your winter escape package now. A warming touch to the winter months and an exciting new way to experience Kaiteriteri at night, The Kaiteriteri Artisan Market is a food, art and craft market that brings together locals and visitors with the makers and growers of produce, regional food and beverages, an interesting range of quality craft products, artwork, and artisan items. The market is a showcase of some of the Nelson Tasman region’s best artisanal food and craft talent, where people can buy original, high-quality products direct from the makers. The Kaiteriteri Artisan Market will be held fortnightly on a Friday starting 8 July, from 5:30pm – 8:30pm and hopes to operate throughout the year. Located in the courtyard between Waterfront Restaurant and the Kaiteriteri General Store, with mobile food trucks located in the Kaiteriteri Camp car park adjacent. Make Friday’s in winter exciting and bring the family for a great evening at the beach. You will be met with warm outside braziers and the Reserve lit with sparkling lights, plus live music to entertain and delight all. Located in the middle of beautiful Golden Bay, Hack ‘n Stay is a pet and eco-friendly farm stay. Their campground is just a short walk or ride from Paton’s Rock beach and serves as the perfect base for your next getaway. Hack ‘n Stay offers a number of holistic horse experiences for riders, from guided treks on their team of highly trained horses, to vaulting, horsemanship and riding lessons. Alternatively, you can bring your own horse and enjoy their easily accessible trails that will allow

Hack ‘n Stay offer guided horse treks in Golden Bay.

you to explore the beauty of the ever-changing coastal landscape on horseback. Their multi-day Hack Camps and Hack Club days are the perfect introduction to the foundations of communication with your horse, both on the ground and in the saddle. Hack n Stay can help riders of all ages find confidence and balance around horsed, both in the saddle and on the ground. Enjoy the family and pet friendly environment in a 120-year-old farmhouse and horse ranch, or park up in one of the camping spaces. Their farm stay has a new fireplace to keep you warm and cosy. Outdoor pizza nights and visits to the Glow Worm City will create memories for life. Nestled deep in a nature estate, along the bank of the sublime Maruia River, lies a stunning boutique lodge that welcomes guests to unwind from the hustle of the everyday and reconnect amongst the landscape. Maruia River Retreat invites guests to join them at the upcoming guided wellness Balance Retreat, to be hosted by Rachel Grunwell, renowned author of Balance: Food, Health + Happiness. Included in the three-night retreat is private villa accommodation, daily workshops, yoga and meditation classes, the estates extensive nature trails, use of all forestbathing facilities including an outdoor hot tub, Finnish dry sauna, infra-red chroma therapy sauna – and deliciously nourishing meals tailor-made to nurture the soul and help you enjoy a healthier, happier and more balanced life. The luxurious Balance Retreat runs from September 22 – 25. Living history in a gold rush village. Don’t need to book – just turn up! While the South Islands West Coast is well known for its magnificent scenery and glaciers, no visit to the area is complete without experiencing Shantytown Heritage Park. The discovery of gold in 1864 led to a population “explosion” from around 300 to almost 30,000 residents. Isolation, rugged terrain and extreme weather conditions produced fascinating stories of fortitude and ingenuity. The social history, as well as the importance of steam and early technology to the Coast’s development, is told through displays as Shantytown. The town’s peaceful setting, with its native forest backdrop gives visitors the opportunity to step to an earlier time, experience a range of activities and view fascinating relics from days gone by. Shantytown Heritage Park is conveniently located between the West Coast’s major towns Greymouth and Hokitika – just 3km off the main highway SH6. Connect with the healing benefits of nature and the ocean with Brenda-Lee’s Luxury Yoga Retreat at Waterfall Bay. At the luxury resort-style accommodation, surrounded by lush green and ocean views you will feel any stress you have melt away. Throughout the three-day retreat experienced yoga teacher Brenda-Lee King will guide you through meditation to ease the mind and help deal with stress, while using the breath to release the old and make way for the new. Through gentle flow yoga and bathing in the song of quartz crystal singing bowls that vibrate to the soul, you will feel yourself heal on a deeper level. The experience is complemented with a stay in one of Waterfall Retreat’s luxury rooms, dining on healthy and nourishing food plus access to relaxing massage and spa treatments. You will leave Waterfall Retreat feeling at ease and in tune with yourself. Brenda-Lee’s next Waterfall Bay Yoga Retreat is being held August 26-28. Visit waterfallretreat.co.nz/yoga-retreats to book your healing experience.

Brenda-Lee King at the stunning Waterfall Retreat.

Pan for your own gold at Shanty Town.