When I stepped out of my car at the Maruia River Retreat, I breathed in the fresh fragrance of the native beech forest, gardens and terraces of the 500-acre estate. Sunlight sparkled on the river as it flowed at the bottom of the hill. I could see why the retreat is called ‘New Zealand’s Nature and Well Being Destination’. I relished the thought of four whole days at this beautiful property.

Maruia River
*Photo by Diane Covington-Carter*

I was there for a three-night, four-day writing retreat, with daily yoga classes, led by Lasse Holopainen, co-owner of the retreat, with his wife Cristina. The retreat was open to all, no writing or yoga experience necessary.

As a journalist and author of four books, I looked forward to having the time to dive down deep into my creativity for four days. The supportive environment and the peace and vibrancy of the property, would provide the perfect setting. In addition to the writing sessions, I was also excited to have four consecutive days of yoga classes, a luxury missing in my busy life.

Warm Welcome and Elegant Villa

Inside the lodge, the friendly staff welcomed me, and Rhonda, the resident Rhodesian Ridgeback, gave me a few friendly nudges. The fire in the lodge crackled and glowed, creating a feeling of cosiness and comfort.

The spacious property contains seven fully self-contained villas that provide guests both privacy and luxurious comfort. When I arrived at my villa, I stepped out onto the balcony to breathe in the pure clean air and to let in the healing energy of the sight and the sound of the river and the mana of the forest.

Back inside, a fresh brewed cup of tea from my Italian kitchenette, sipped on the comfy couch facing the river, let me catch my breath. During the four days of the retreat, I felt at home in the elegant space and never got over the thrill of the heated marble floors in the bathroom.

Real Food

Late that first afternoon, we all met in the lodge for a briefing and a snack of delicious spring rolls.

Delicious spring rolls
*Photo by Diane Covington-Carter*

Then laughed as we played a game to introduce ourselves and to remember each other’s names. It worked!

Retreats include three delicious meals each day, with menus featuring produce sourced from the property’s own garden, when possible, or from the local region. Their philosophy emphasizes a real food experience of fresh, simple and nourishing food, beautifully presented. Each evening we gathered in the Dining Lounge at one long table, family style, chatting and getting to know each other further.

Fresh tomato soup, Yummy entrée, Scrumptious dessert
*Photos by Diane Covington-Carter*

Yoga Classes

On the first night, Lasse led a pre-dinner one-hour yoga class. His extensive training and experience were evident, and his warmth had us all feeling comfortable and looked after, even those who were newcomers to yoga.

Our routine for the next three days began with a 75-minute yoga class with Lasse, followed by a sumptuous continental breakfast. Lasse handled each person with individual attention and encouragement and the classes created a relaxing, energizing start to our days.

Writing

The writing sessions each day allowed me to make a start on a project that I had been unable to begin on my own. I also watched as others discovered a new ease and success in their writing.

Other Pleasures

In our free time, we could soak in the outdoor hot tub down by the river or enjoy the Infrared Chroma-therapy sauna, just steps away from the hot tub. One of the afternoons, I had a soothing massage, followed by a sauna.

Another afternoon, Lasse led a nature walk past rushing creeks and along the river, pointing out all the various trees and plants that grow on the property.

Owner, Lasse
*Photo and Video by Diane Covington-Carter*

Rhonda joined in on our walk. We enjoyed a sound meditation and healing session one evening.

Rhonda, the resident Rhodesian Ridgeback
*Photo and Video by Diane Covington-Carter*

Community

From the beginning, our group felt very harmonious, and we became even closer, as we shared the powerful experience of stretching our minds and our bodies with the dual exploration of writing and yoga.

I left for home refreshed and inspired, realizing that I had breathed life into both my writing and my yoga practice.

I can’t wait to go back.

The Healing Power of Nature in New Zealand