Wairua Lodge - Rainforest River Retreat
Wairua Lodge - Rainforest River Retreat
251 Old Coach Road, Whitianga 3591 New Zealand
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Pool & Beach (28)
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About
5.0
#2 of 26 B&Bs in WhitiangaLocation
4.9
Rooms
4.7
Value
4.8
Cleanliness
4.8
Service
4.9
Sleep Quality
4.8
This award is our highest recognition and is presented annually to the top 1% of businesses across select categories.
Wairua Lodge sits on a sunny ridge in a bush clad valley only 12 kilometres from Whitianga. 4 double rooms look out across the valley into Coromandel mountains, and the Kiwi Apartment is a 2 bedroom fully self contained suite, overhanging a bushclad ravine.Swim in the river, walk the nature trails,soak in the Treetops bath house or in the Night sky spa pool.Centrally located for all days trips around The Coromandel.
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Property amenities
Free parking
Free internet
Hot tub
Free breakfast
Hiking
Board games / puzzles
Books, DVDs, music for children
Spa
Secured parking
Public wifi
Breakfast in the room
Open-air bath
BBQ facilities
Non-smoking hotel
Outdoor fireplace
Outdoor furniture
Picnic area
Shared kitchen
Shared lounge / TV area
Sun terrace
Laundry service
Room features
Bathrobes
Seating area
Kitchenette
Refrigerator
Flatscreen TV
Complimentary toiletries
Room types
Non-smoking rooms
Family rooms
Good to know
HOTEL STYLE
Romantic
Quaint
Languages Spoken
English, German
Location
251 Old Coach Road, Whitianga 3591 New Zealand
Getting there
Auckland Intl Airport
45.7 mi•
See all flights
Rental Cars
Reviews
5.0
803 reviews
Reviews summary
This summary was created by AI, based on recent reviews.
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Nestled in a serene natural setting, the Wairua Lodge - Rainforest River Retreat emerges as a tranquil escape that garners consistent praise for its amenities, including relaxing baths and well-maintained trails. Guests are enchanted by the spotless rooms and the overall cleanliness of the establishment.
The hosts' warm and attentive service adds to the lodge's cozy and luxurious atmosphere, further enhancing the sense of retreat from the daily grind. Its location is celebrated for its peaceful embrace of nature, with the added convenience of being close to Whitianga and easily reachable.
Location
Secluded
Atmosphere
Tranquil
Rooms
Comfortable
Cleanliness
Spotless
Service
Attentive
Amenities
Relaxing
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Detailed Reviews
The setting of the retreat is truly exceptional. Located in an area of unspoiled rainforest, with the noise of birds all around, it was a pleasure just to spend time around the property. There are some fantastic short walks through the surrounding forest, with lovely spots for either swimming in the river or just lying back on a hammock and appreciating the beautiful and peaceful surroundings. Debbie and Ernst were very welcoming and helpful hosts, and the breakfasts supplied were just right. The property is a little off the beaten track and it was around 20 minutes drive to Whitianga if you wanted to eat out, but in our eyes that was a very worthwhile trade off.
The rooms are very well appointed, but if there is any possible room for improvement, it would be to provide somewhere for washing up dishes in the rooms themselves. Not a big problem, but just a little inconvenient.to have to take them along to the central kitchen area - that may be deliberate to encourage mixing of guests, which is no bad thing. Overall, a fantastic stay in a beautiful area and we would certainly return if back in these parts.
The rooms are very well appointed, but if there is any possible room for improvement, it would be to provide somewhere for washing up dishes in the rooms themselves. Not a big problem, but just a little inconvenient.to have to take them along to the central kitchen area - that may be deliberate to encourage mixing of guests, which is no bad thing. Overall, a fantastic stay in a beautiful area and we would certainly return if back in these parts.
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: February 2020
Room Tip:Â All rooms seem to be equally well located.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Debbie B, Owner at Wairua Lodge - Rainforest River Retreat
Responded Mar 29, 2020
Hi there. Thanks so much for the comprehensive review! Thanks, also, for your suggestion. We have tried to maximize space in the rooms and thought the set-up with the communal kitchen was the best option. Does give you a chance to have a chat to the other guests :-) All the best in these crazy times! cheers Debbie
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Everything was perfect, you can refresh yourself, and just swim in the river m, is so quiet you can feel alone, listen the river and relax in the hammock. Bed is huge and shower to. Bathrobes are so confy. Outside bath it's very relax and spa to. Breakfast fantastic, homemade bread, and fresh yogurt! We loved so much the sharing BBQ(or Novergian BBQ) that's was amazing!
Thank you for everything!
Anaïs and Maxime
Thank you for everything!
Anaïs and Maxime
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: December 2019Trip type: Traveled as a couple
Room Tip:Â Double room
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Debbaumi, Owner at Wairua Lodge - Rainforest River Retreat
Responded Jan 9, 2020
Hi Anais & Maxime. Thanks so much for the fantastic review! Was lovely to meet you both on your travels through New Zealand! Best regards Debbie & Ernst
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
A lot to digest? Read an AI-generated summary of recent traveler reviews.
We had a very enjoyable stay at the lodge. The owners were very welcoming and friendly and were happy to assist with anything we needed and made us feel at home.
The room was very cosy and comfortable.
The location was awesome as you were surrounded by nature on all sides and cut off from the hustle and bustle of traffic and noise. The trails were very well maintained and the waterholes with the seating arrangements were so relaxed.
What we liked best was being surrounded by nature and there was nothing that we did not like or need to mention about.
The room was very cosy and comfortable.
The location was awesome as you were surrounded by nature on all sides and cut off from the hustle and bustle of traffic and noise. The trails were very well maintained and the waterholes with the seating arrangements were so relaxed.
What we liked best was being surrounded by nature and there was nothing that we did not like or need to mention about.
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: April 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Debbie Baumberger, Owner at Wairua Lodge - Rainforest River Retreat
Responded Apr 28, 2021
Hi there. Thank you so much for the great review. So glad that you really enjoyed Wairua and the rainforest location! Best regards Debbie & Ernst
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
From the moment we drove up the driveway, we knew our time was going to be great. A true hidden gem in the middle of a lush rainforest, with lots or nothing to do, but relax, enjoy the surrounds and take in the breathtaking views. Our accommodation was top notch, very well maintained and everything was oozing of quality and attention to detail. All this within easy access to Whitianga town. We loved it so much, we are going back in January and bringing the family. Thank you so much Debbie and Ernst, you guys are amazing! :)
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: September 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Debbie Baumberger, Owner at Wairua Lodge - Rainforest River Retreat
Responded Sep 30, 2020
Hi Gaylene. Thank you so much for the fantastic review! So glad you enjoyed Wairua and that you are bringing your family back to enjoy it with you! See you in January! cheers Debbie & Ernst
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
We stayed for 4 nights at Wairua Lodge and had the most enjoyable, relaxing stay. The home-made and produced breakfasts were fantastic. Debbie and Ernst were incredibly accommodating, even doing our washing and hanging it out on our verandah to dry. The communal kitchen made the whole thing really social and at nights, the fire was cranked up and we cooked on the fire itself with other guests also cooking, chatting and drinking wine. The fairy lights lit up the area and Moreporks flew in to watch. A first to see moreporks up so close. We booked the spa and the outdoor bath at night and the whole experience was pure magic. Thank you Debbie and Ernst for providing this remarkable spot in the world.
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: January 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Debbie Baumberger, Owner at Wairua Lodge - Rainforest River Retreat
Responded Jan 17, 2021
Hi there Lisa. So nice to have you both here. You seemed to have such a good time, relaxing and winding down. Thank you so much for the great review! Best regards Debbie & Ernst
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
The property is the perfect place to relax in amongst nature - whether it be one of the bush walks, the spa under the stars or the open bath in the tree-tops.
Though remote, it is still practical to pop into Whitianga to sample a restaurant and visit the Lost Spring Spa; or make a trip to Cathedral Cove and the hot water beach.
The room was very well presented and comfortable. There is no cell reception at the lodge, however, that allows you to just relax away from the hustle of life (Wifi is provided).
We look forward to returning.
Though remote, it is still practical to pop into Whitianga to sample a restaurant and visit the Lost Spring Spa; or make a trip to Cathedral Cove and the hot water beach.
The room was very well presented and comfortable. There is no cell reception at the lodge, however, that allows you to just relax away from the hustle of life (Wifi is provided).
We look forward to returning.
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: August 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Debbie Baumberger, Owner at Wairua Lodge - Rainforest River Retreat
Responded Aug 27, 2020
Hi there. Great that you were able to relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings - without interruption as you point out :-) We look forward to your return. cheers Debbie & Ernst
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
I can not recommend wairua lodge enough what a place to escape for the night, the owners are lovely and so helpful. The outdoor bath was definitely a first for me but what an experience it was. No cell reception it was great to just switch off. Complimentary breakfast was delicious, the owner makes her own bread. Would of definitely stayed another night if it wasn't booked out. Definitely recommend will be back
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: July 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Debbie Baumberger, Owner at Wairua Lodge - Rainforest River Retreat
Responded Jul 27, 2020
Hi Shannon. Thanks for the great review! Yes, you definitely will have to come back so you can enjoy the lodge and surrounds a bit more! Next time, eh! Cheers Debbie & Ernst
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
We had a wonderful stay at Wairua Lodge! Our room was comfortable with stylish decor and there were so many extra touches that we weren’t expecting that made our weekend getaway a more fabulous experience than we could have expected. The breakfast included homemade bread and honey from the bees on the property, we enjoyed walking some of the trails around the property, the treehouse bath was beautiful and although the night sky didn’t play along for our spa and was a bit too cloudy we still enjoyed cooking our steak on the fire pit and toasting marshmallows that were left out for us by our hosts.
Thank you Debbie and Ernst for giving us a great post-lockdown holiday!
Thank you Debbie and Ernst for giving us a great post-lockdown holiday!
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Date of stay: May 2020Trip type: Traveled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Debbie B, Owner at Wairua Lodge - Rainforest River Retreat
Responded May 28, 2020
Hey Emma! Thanks so much for the fabulous review! We are so glad you enjoyed your stay here... nice to have had some room to move around, eh! cheers Debbie
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Set in the most romantic surroundings of native bush, Wairua Lodge is accessed by crossing a ford and then climbing the hill to stunningly tended gardens around immaculately designed accommodation. We were in the two bedroom Tui apartment which had its own deck looking out into the tree ferns and a terrace on which to BBQ. We had our own kitchen but the shared kitchen was where we went to find DVDs and looked spotless. There is an open air bath and a hot tub under the stars on a first come basis and chairs and benches set at different viewing points throughout the garden. We will return to do the river walk and explore further. You know you have come somewhere special when the other guests staying are honeymooners. I highly recommend this property.
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: October 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Debbie Baumberger, Owner at Wairua Lodge - Rainforest River Retreat
Responded Oct 11, 2020
Hi there. Thank you for taking time to write such a great review! The rainforest views from Kiwi Apartment are lovely, aren't they! So glad you enjoyed the treetop bathhouse and hot tub. The trails are there for you to explore next time :-) best regards Debbie & Ernst
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
It was one of the best accommodation I have ever been including expensive 5 star hotels. Ernest and Debbie were great hosts and they looked after the place so well that you do not want to leave the property but to enjoy whatever is available for you at the lodge. There are few trails available with maps in their 15 acres of private land for you to explore and few hammocks and outdoor benches that you can relax, natural pools to go into, outdoor jacuzzi and romantic night sky bath tubs, place for campfire for outdoor barbeque and indoor bbq facilities as well. Breakfast was included with homemade bread and jam, free-range eggs, home grown natural honey from their bees... and I can list more!!! Although there is no reception for mobile phones and no access to internet apart from wifi provided from the lodge, both my partner and I did not touch the phone for the entire stay at this place because you have so much to do here!!! It is the place that I would keep it to ourselves but also to recommend to every single person I know of. Thank you so much Ernest and Debbie :)
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: October 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Debbie Baumberger, Owner at Wairua Lodge - Rainforest River Retreat
Responded Oct 19, 2020
Hi Sora. Thank you so much for taking time to write such an extensive and glowing review! So glad that you both enjoyed Wairua and all it has to offer. We look forward to seeing you on your 1st anniversary! cheers Debbie & Ernst
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
The rooms differ in size-with Queens being slightly smaller.The King has a Superking bed, more comfy chairs and a BBQ in the outside patio.
Hi there,
All guest can book one hour time slots in the Treetop Bath house, or the spa pool. We have some lovely bush walks, and swimming holes in the river.
Check out our website for room options.
Hope this helps
Regards
Tam and Charles Stevenson
Ja die Lodge ist mit einem normalen Auto problemlos erreichbar. Die letzten 1,5 km sind eine Kiesstrasse. Die Flussquerung ist eine betonierte Unterlage. Wie auch die letzten 150 m zur Lodge hinauf.
The rivercrossing is a concreted drive.
"Be aware that the Lodge is in pure nature, so you will have to do 1-2 small river crossings. No shops close by - bring food for dinner. "Read full review
"Rent an e-bike for a day at Hahei Ebike Hire. Linda (owner) gives many options of scenic routes to, among others, hot water beach. "Read full review
"Relax and take time to enjoy it. Spend at least a day doing some of the walks form your door. Can borrow spades for hot water beach "Read full review
"Check with the hosts after bad weather as it may be difficult to access. We visited six weeks after the cyclone and the roads were still being repaired "Read full review
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PRICE RANGE
$152 - $154 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
LOCATION
New ZealandNorth IslandWaikato RegionCoromandel PeninsulaWhitianga
NUMBER OF ROOMS
5
Prices are the average nightly price provided by our partners and may not include all taxes and fees. Taxes and fees that are shown are estimates only. Please see our partners for more details.
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Claim Your ListingWAIRUA LODGE - RAINFOREST RIVER RETREAT - Updated 2024
Frequently Asked Questions about Wairua Lodge - Rainforest River Retreat
Which popular attractions are close to Wairua Lodge - Rainforest River Retreat?
Nearby attractions include Combat & Fun Zone Adventure & Family Park (2.7 miles), The Waterworks (4.0 miles), and The 309 Road (3.1 miles).
What are some of the property amenities at Wairua Lodge - Rainforest River Retreat?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include free breakfast, a spa, and free parking.
Which room amenities are available at Wairua Lodge - Rainforest River Retreat?
Top room amenities include a kitchenette, a flat screen TV, and a refrigerator.
What food & drink options are available at Wairua Lodge - Rainforest River Retreat?
Guests can enjoy free breakfast and barbeque facilities during their stay.
Is parking available at Wairua Lodge - Rainforest River Retreat?
Yes, free parking and secured parking are available to guests.
Which languages are spoken by the staff at Wairua Lodge - Rainforest River Retreat?
The staff speaks multiple languages, including English and German.