Designed to Slow You Down: Our Vision for slow stays at Ripples Retreat in 2026

As we move into 2026, we’re making a very intentional choice at Ripples Retreat.

We’re choosing slower stays, deeper rest, and more time with the people who matter most.

Ripples Retreat sits on our family farm in Piopio, near Waitomo, and from the very beginning we wanted to create the kind of place we would choose ourselves when life felt busy or noisy — somewhere that invited you to slow right down. You can explore both of our hand-built riverside cabins here →

Our Ultimate Holiday Cabins for slow stays in New Zealand

We designed and built our two riverside cabins as our ultimate holiday cabins for longer stays.

Every decision was shaped around how we love to spend time away — calm mornings, outdoor baths, shared meals, and space to simply be. Not rushed. Not over-planned. Just comfortable, grounding and unhurried.

Both cabins sit right on the river, each with its own private stretch of water for swimming, soaking or sitting quietly with your feet in the shallows. There are very few places where you can stay directly on a river like this — and even fewer where the experience feels this private and considered.

Privacy, With Space to Come Together for slow stays in New Zealand

Privacy mattered just as much as connection.

The cabins are positioned far enough apart that each stay feels completely your own, yet close enough for families or friends to come together easily — shared meals, river swims, long evenings under the stars.

This balance is what makes Ripples Retreat work so well for couples, families, and groups who book both cabins together. You can be together when you want, and retreat into your own space when you don’t.

A Tranquil Environment to Truly Unwind

For us, Ripples isn’t about doing more.

It’s about creating a tranquil, beautiful environment where you can truly unwind and recover — physically, mentally and emotionally.

We’re not a wellness retreat. There are no schedules or expectations. Just thoughtfully designed spaces, nature at your doorstep, and time that stretches out in front of you.

That’s why we gently encourage longer stays. Four to seven nights gives you time to settle in, sleep deeply, explore if you feel like it, or do very little at all. For families or friends who want more space, booking both cabins together allows everyone to settle in and stay a while.

Ripples Retreat isn’t about ticking things off a list.

It’s about staying longer, moving slower, and being with your favourite people — in a place created with care, intention, and love.

If this way of travelling resonates, and you want to experience luxury riverside cabins in Piopio Waitomo, you can explore availability and choose the cabin — or cabins — that suit your stay.

River Song Cabin

Cascade Cabin

Both Cabins

Book direct at stayatripples.co.nz

📍 Piopio / Waitomo