Pihopa Retreat

By far one of the top places we have stayed at in all of our travel to over 15 countries. The owner Sarah’s hospitality and attention to detail (afternoon treats, making advance restaurant bookings, arranging complimentary taxis, breakfast table items, even doing a load of laundry, the list goes on) was the most immaculate part of the experience. It overshadowed the fact that the rooms were also beautiful and in a picturesque estate. Would not miss out if you can stay here.

Just WOW! This was our favorite place over a six-week vacation in New Zealand and Australia. Only sorry we couldn't stay more than 2 nights. As others have noted, it is perfection. The property -- once an Anglican retreat and college -- has been lovingly and beautifully restored and adapted into a luxurious hotel/5-star B&B. There are only six suites and they are spacious, with every amenity one could think of, and bathrooms to die for. Sarah, innkeeper extraordinaire, is a most gracious and warm host and thinks of everything. Rooms include a complimentary drinks/food bar with good wine, all kinds of treats, coffee, tea and fresh milk, and heavenly pastries baked fresh daily. The beds are beyond comfy and curling up in the leather armchairs before a gas fire each evening, wine in hand, was a delightful way to end the day. Sarah makes reservations for dinner and cabs to and from the town are complimentary. The on-site breakfast is sumptuous, served in the original church, and a wine and canapes hour every evening was another treat. There's also a heated pool, a wonderful spot to relax after a day of activity. I can't say enough about the uniqueness of this place and only wish it were closer to the U.S. so I could visit regularly. If you're planning to be in Nelson and the Abel Tasman Park area, this is THE place to stay.

Pihopa has the wow factor ! A warm welcome awaits at this amazing retreat. The rooms are sumptuous, with every amenity and treat such as delicious cake to have with afternoon tea. The view from our balcony was amazing, the vista taking you through trees down to the sea. Everything has been thought of to make your stay memorable and the host, Sarah goes the extra mile to make your time at this amazing place feel extra special. Breakfasts were just incredible - a feast for the eyes. We really enjoyed the complimentary drinks and canapés at 6pm in the pool house. A complimentary taxi would arrive to whisk you to dinner in town and was there to bring you back again. We loved every minute of our stay here and hope to be back soon!

This place is magical and without a doubt a must stay if anywhere near Nelson! We were amazed! There are only 6 rooms, cabins really. Immaculate, comfortable, modern, private and perfect! The service is 5 star. Breakfast is included and very special, served in a chapel on grounds, evening appetizers are served in the pool house and are plentiful, every day in your room there are homemade desserts. Because there is no restaurant on site, they make reservations for you at terrific restaurants and so that you don’t have to drive, you are given a debit card to pay a taxi to pick you up and bring you back at their expense. Amazing service. This place doesn’t skimp on anything, service, food, comfort. One evening we were too tired to go out to eat so we asked if we could just have cheese and crackers, Sarah had way more than cheese and crackers prepared for us and there was no charge when we checked out. Best place we stayed and most memorable.

This place goes above and beyond to make your stay relaxing. Everything is thought through with care and attention to detail. We arrived in the late afternoon, to a warm welcome, room full to the brim with treats and a very handy table reservation and taxi booked. Nothing to do but go for a swim and enjoy the spectacular views! I could go on and on but better find out for yourselves. Thank you so much!

We cannot recommend Pihopa enough! The service is impeccable, the food delicious, the rooms have every amenity you could wish for. We have traveled the world and stayed in many wonderful places and Pihopa is at the top of our accommodations list.

A wonderful retreat, beautiful location, suite, and breakfast, a peaceful oasis. Sarah’s attention to detail is brilliant (the afternoon treats were such a surprise when we arrived back from her suggested sightseeing), and loved her dinner venues in Nelson (and the complimentary Uber, both ways). Pihopa suited us perfectly for our few days.

Sarah, Annie and the rest of the staff treated us like family for the three days we were there. The accommodations were fantastic but the extras made this a memorable stay. From scrumptious homemade bakery and fresh fruit in the room every day to the morning breakfast and evening cocktails, everything was exquisite. The retreat is set back from the road in a beautiful, private location. Ideal for couples who don’t mind paying a little more for an unforgettable experience.

Treat yourself to the Pihopa Retreat! Beyond relaxing with incredible attention to EVERY single detail and service. The owners, the Mellors ,and staff are so very gracious and their hospitality absolutely unmatched. You’ll never forget this amazing experience.