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REVIEWS

"Hands down the best accommodation retreat in
New Zealand"
 

UN-BE-LIEVABLE.

Hands down, the most incredible airbnb stay ever. Trudy and her family have created an outstanding experience for their guests. The photos truly do not do this place justice, everything about it is immaculate and comfortable but so stylish. I think my favorite aspect was that there was space *everywhere* - to sit, to spread out luggage items, to write (postcards/letters/journaling), to place your tea or wine glass. The built-in bench seating along the giant window was perfect for curling up with the fluffy pillows and blankets and watching the stars from inside.

 

The patio seating was perfect for enjoying the sunrise with a steaming cup of coffee. Everything was clearly labeled, the provided treats were plentiful (homemade honey?! apple cider vinegar?! lemons and limes!!?), the variety of appliances meant you could easily sequester yourself here indefinitely with a load of groceries. I cannot WAIT to return (for longer, three nights was not enough)!! Ripples is paradise!

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Kate K MAINE USA

Ripples Retreat Guest Reviews

Here are some of our guest reviews. More reviews can be seen on Google, Airbnb and Facebook.

Tia and Michael

Australia Feb 2025

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Just what me and my husband needed, such a stunning little staycay for a couple of days away. Been following this stunning little place for years and finally got to stay here on our trip home from Perth. This was definitely worth the wait, truely beautiful.

Thank you so much Trudy and Brendan.

 
Tranqulilty at its finest

Jens and Caren

Germany  

Trudy and Brendan are absolutely lovely and created a calm and really secluded second home for people who love nature. The farm area is beautiful, the cottage in a perfect place. The little river flowing, the birds singing, the sheep and cows audible in the distant, the hot tub in the night under the stars.. wow! We have to come back in the future! Thanks again for all the helpful tips, Trudy and Brendan!
Already rebooked for 9 days in Nov 2025

Simon and Layla 

NZ Mar 2025

Absolutely Magical Stay at Ripples Retreat!

My husband and I had the most incredible two-night stay at Ripples Retreat, and we can’t recommend it highly enough! Nestled in rolling countryside beside a gently flowing river, this stunning cabin is a true escape into nature. The peaceful setting, framed by an epic limestone rock backdrop, made for the perfect retreat to unwind and recharge.

The cabin itself is beautifully designed, with a super comfy bed that made for the best night’s sleep, a luxurious double shower that feels like a spa experience, and an outdoor bathtub that was pure magic - soaking under the stars with the sounds of nature all around was unforgettable. We loved watching the local wildlife and soaking in the tranquility of the surroundings.

Another highlight was the Hairy Feet tour, just a short drive away, where we got to explore the breathtaking, otherworldly locations from The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings. It was the perfect addition to our getaway!

Hosts Trudy and Brendan were absolutely lovely - warm, welcoming, and passionate about making their guests feel at home. They’ve created something truly special here, and we can’t wait to return for another stay, especially with their second cabin opening soon!

If you’re looking for a peaceful, unique, and utterly relaxing retreat, Ripples Retreat is the place to be. We’ll definitely be back!

 

Elize and Family

NZ May 2024

Our family's recent stay at Ripples Retreat was nothing short of magical. Nestled in the heart of serene landscapes, the cabin offered a perfect blend of comfort and rustic charm. The tranquillity of the surroundings was palpable, with the gentle sounds of the creek adding to the peaceful ambiance.

Every aspect of the retreat was designed with relaxation in mind, providing a well-deserved rejuvenation for our busy lives. The attention to detail in the cabin's design ensured that our stay was both luxurious and intimate, making it an unforgettable experience for the entire family.

We left Ripples Retreat with cherished memories and a renewed sense of connection, both with nature and each other. It's a special place that offers a unique blend of adventure and calm, and we can't wait to return.
Elize and Family
 
Great Views, Romantic, Quiet
5/5

 

Rochelle Moorfield

NZ June 2024

We were looking forward to our stay at Ripples Retreat, nestled by the tranquil Mangaotaki Stream and surrounded by breathtaking limestone cliffs and rolling hills, and we were not disappointed. The cabin was cozy, and we were fascinated by the stories behind the furniture and decor, which added a unique charm to our stay.

The Denize family, who manage the retreat, were incredibly welcoming, genuine, and helpful throughout our visit, making us feel right at home. Relaxing in the outdoor bath was a real treat, offering a serene way to enjoy the stunning surroundings. The retreat was peaceful and secluded, perfect for unwinding and disconnecting from the outside world.

Ripples Retreat is the perfect choice for a weekend away. It was a truly magical and relaxing experience, ideal for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. We look forward to our return and seeing the progress of the new Ripples 2 bungalow.
Luxury, Stunning views, Great Value
5/5

Aaron M

NZ Aug 2024

We had an amazing couple of days Ripples. It was the perfect place for us to relax for a few days, it’s a little slice of paradise. Loved the outdoor bath and stargazing. The cabin is beautiful has everything you need. Can’t wait to return in the future.
Spotless, Responsive Host, Stunning surroundings
5/5

Jacob and Caitlyn

Washington USA Dec 2024

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Ripples is truly out of a dream. It is the most beautiful and peaceful place I have ever been in the world. The pictures don’t even do it justice and the pictures are amazing! Trudy was a phenomenal host and so kind. This place will not be topped.
Private, Local recommendations,
Beautiful
5/5

Mark 

USA  Dec 2024

Our stay at Ripples was perfect! We couldn’t have asked for a more peaceful and beautiful stop during our honeymoon in NZ. It’s a stunning location with truly wonderful and generous hosts, we loved our stay and hope to return!
Felt right at home, Spotless,
Great value
5/5

Yuan and Family of 5

Nov 2024

Hobbit life with our family here, and it was absolutely magical. The Trudy family truly put their heart into making our stay special, from the beautifully hand-picked flowers to the adorable welcome sheep placed on the bed.
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The house itself isn’t very large, but it’s perfectly sufficient and cozy in every sense of the word. Only when you come here will you truly understand the meaning of “cozy.” We are also incredibly grateful to Brandon for the wonderful conversation we had and for sharing such a peaceful and serene place with us.
 
Their warmth and hospitality made this experience even more unforgettable. Thank you for creating such a magical haven!

Scarlett & Nelly

Engagement Jun 2024

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By now you will have read allot of positive reviews on this place, this is the place you’re looking for. It’s far more magical than the photos show. I proposed here,
 
Trudy’s lovely husband drove me and my fiancé up the back of the property, where he dropped us off to make our own way back down a twenty minute picturesque farm track. While we were up the Hill Trudy had kindly offered to lay out the secret platter I had couriered there earlier from the fat pigeon cafe. So we arrived back at dusk with candles and twinkly lights all secretly laid out by Trudy.
 
On our second day we got up early and went caving at Waitomo caves just 40 minutes away. And upon our return I had organised through Trudy to have two massage therapists come to the cabin and give us a joint couples massage.
 
You really need to do this, they were two of the absolute best massages we have had. Trust me this is the best idea you’ll have. On our third day we slept in and then took the kayaks out in the river at the foot of the cabin. Went skinny dipping and lay on the grass in the sun. Have I mentioned we had two outdoor baths a day. Once in the day time and of course once at night under the stars.
 
I cannot describe the magic of this place. And it was the most special place to get engaged. Trudy and her husband are so welcoming and left us to it the entire time. We will definitely be back. Book this place for anything special. Or just to feel special.

Donna S D

New Zealand Aug 2024

This is the kind of place where the smallest detail has been attended to. Fresh flowers in vases- perfect selections. Easy to find and so secluded and just the sound of the water rippling past. Wish we had longer to stay- definitely will be back
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Food and drinks

Best cafe in town- would return to the Fat pigeon just for the omelette!

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Luxury, Great view, Romantic, Quiet, Child-friendly, Great value
5/5

Jian and Family of 5

Texas July 2024

I cannot say enough about how much we enjoyed Ripples cabin.
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Trudy was an outstanding host and went above and beyond to help us with everything we needed. The unit itself was fantastic!
 
The cabin was decorated with local and handmade items (but very stylish and tasteful) and was very nice. I can not think of a more peaceful beautiful place to find some solitude.
 
Also, we sent “Hairy Feet” tours an email and they created a tour just for us! It was magical and the whole experience was top notch.
 
If you are looking for outdoor activities, in a quiet, peaceful setting, look no further. We couldn’t have been happier.
Spotless, Friendly, Stunning surroundings
5/5

Moe Tuipulotu

NZ Feb 2024

A weekend that’s added value to the year ahead! So grateful for the day trips we managed to fit into our 3 night stay - Waitomo & Tongapōrutu as well as a short drive to Hairy Feet (The Hobbit and others film location) and Waitanguru falls just around the corner from Ripples. We filled the day with activities and spent the afternoon and evenings in the creek and soaking in the spacious outdoor bath under the stars. Rejuvenated and ready for the working year ahead. Can’t wait to return with our children! Thank you Trudy and family for sharing this space with us

Nearby activities: Waitanguru falls are just around the corner and well worth the short hike back to the carpark!
Three sisters was a great stroll - walk on the wet sand if you forget your jandals in the car.
Waitomo caves - abseiling and exploring caves.
 
Great Value, Luxury, Great Views
5/5

 

Debbie Norton 

NZ Mar 2024

A stunning location and beautifully presented cabin. Perfect for our wedding anniversary get away. Trudy has thought of everything for that special romantic break - from a picnic down by the river, to the outdoor bath under the most amazing stars! We loved it thank you so much ! Beautiful slice of paradise !
Stunning location
5/5

Carl Ward

 Lancs UK Feb 2024

This was our 14th and last stop on our tour of NZ. We chose the place as a final point to just relax and unwind for two days before our next adventure in Tasmania. This cabin hit the spot 100%. It was clean well equipped and in the most beautiful secluded spot. The bed was comfortable and there was plenty of space to just sit and relax comfortably. Trudy as our host was great. With helpful suggestions and very responsive. It may be off the basic tourist route but it is worth it, especially if like us you just want to relax and let the world pass you by for a while.
Hit the spot 100%
5/5

Bryan Bonacum

NC USA November 23

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The only word to describe Ripples is perfect! The property is stunning and the cottage is beautiful. Every detail has been so wonderfully thought out. I couldn’t imagine a better place to begin our New Zealand adventure. Trudy was a fantastic communicator and host. Ripples will exceed every expectation! We will recommend it to anyone we know headed to NZ. Absolutely heavenly!
Great views, Luxury, Romantic & Quie, Great Value
5/5
Mele Johny
Auckland NZ October 23
Ripples Retreat has been a place I wanted to stay at for a really long time and finally we had the opportunity to this weekend and it was the best Airbnb stay for me so far.

The place is very peaceful and tranquil. Exactly what we wanted for a weekend getaway. Thank you Trudy 😊
Best Airbnb stay so far!
5/5

Coleman Macuch

USA November 23

We had a fantastic stay at Ripples Retreat and it was the perfect location to end our honeymoon from the United States. The location of the cabin is beautiful and everywhere you look is gorgeous scenery. The river running through the property was very peaceful. The interior is very well done and we appreciated all of the luxurious details. We highly recommend Ripples!
Luxury, Great view, Romantic, Quiet
5/5

Cos and Karen Cirillo

Australia August 23

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Cabin retreat at it's finest. Secluded valley location where you will feel compelled to soak in the nature and unwind.
The cabin is very romantic with a 4 poster bed, plenty of comfy pillows and rugs, double head shower (Very cosy bath robes) and a glorious outdoor bath overlooking the river. Fully equipped kitchen and bbq for all your cooking needs.
Lots of little details you won't get elsewhere that make you feel at home.
If you appreciate a location with a story you won't get much better. The surrounding country side was used in many of the scenes from that well known trilogy Lord of the Rings, which you can visit via hairy foot tours!
Absolute gem. Ripples is an absolute must! 10/10
Great views, Luxury, Romantic & Quie, Great Value
5/5
Kate K
USA Maine July 23
UN-BE-LIEVABLE.
Hands down, the most incredible airbnb stay ever. Trudy and her family have created an outstanding experience for their guests. The photos truly do not do this place justice, everything about it is immaculate and comfortable but so stylish. I think my favorite aspect was that there was space *everywhere* - to sit, to spread out luggage items, to write (postcards/letters/journaling), to place your tea or wine glass. The built-in bench seating along the giant window was perfect for curling up with the fluffy pillows and blankets and watching the stars from inside. The patio seating was perfect for enjoying the sunrise with a steaming cup of coffee. Everything was clearly labeled, the provided treats were plentiful (homemade honey?! apple cider vinegar?! lemons and limes!!?), the variety of appliances meant you could easily sequester yourself here indefinitely with a load of groceries. I cannot WAIT to return (for longer, three nights was not enough)!! Ripples is paradise!
Luxury, Great view, Great Value, 
5/5

Lucy Piercy

USA Sept 23

Ripples was magical. I needed a peaceful and relaxing getaway and Trudy really curated this home to be just that. Situated beautifully in the hills next to peaceful running water, I was transported to tranquility.
Trudy treated me like family and was so welcoming and helpful when I needed it. Hospitality is definitely her gift— you don’t even need to interact with her to feel that. The thoughtful touches at Ripples really said it all.
I can’t wait to come back!
Luxury, Beautiful, Thoughtful touches, Quiet, 
5/5

Kelly Edwards

New Zealand June 23

Ripples Retreat was the ultimate haven for couples. The attention to detail was incredible, making our stay comfortable, relaxing, romantic and fun. Sunset and sunrise in the outdoor bath, listening to the river and birds was the highlight for us. Thank you for being so welcoming and considerate. We can’t wait to book our next weekend at Ripples!
Great views, Luxury, Romantic & Quiet
5/5
Natalie Clarke
New Zealand June 23
This is a bespoke location. Serene and beautiful. Cozy but with all amenities. An excellent retreat!

Noteworthy details: Having an outdoor bath next to a stream and under the stars was divine
 
Luxury, Great view, Romantic, Quiet, Kid-friendly
5/5

Barbara and Graeme

Australia May 23

Great location. Private. Stunning views – river runs through property, in front - own fishing spot. Super accommodation – modern, comfortable. Wonderful backdrop, green hills– sheep and cows. Terrific slice of rural NZ – with all the mod-cons. Can't list all the extras that are lovely surprises - we adored staying here - so so good
Luxury, Great view, Romantic, Quiet, 
5/5

Anika Schroder

Germany Mar 23

Ripples is a truly magical place, it’s a beautifully designed and well-equipped cabin right next to the Mangaotaki river and is surrounded by stunning scenery. The river offers excellent fly fishing for trout(catch &release), a quick dip, a kayak trip or lazy river tubing. Trudy and Brendan are great hosts and you can really feel that they put a lot of hard work and love into the place.
Linda W
New Zealand Feb 23
Stunning Valley and surrounds, a beautifully comforting cabin equipped with everything you could possibly need, and even more. My bestie and I felt so at home and at peace here. The cabin is gorgeous, the outside bath just divine and floating down the Rioples River on the sea biscuit - absolute delight and fun. We usually chose a different Venue every year, but we're coming next year! Thank you to Trudy and family, for the help and friendliness, plus providing all the comforting touches to make our stay magical. Being able to book massages from local therapists and relax on the deck to receive these was an added bonus. Can't recommend Ripples enough!

Renee Pari

New Zealand Mar 23

This made my wedding day even more special; myself & bridesmaids were in awe of the beauty of this place. The finer detail of this place is spectacular and quirky! This slept 4 of us easily, without feeling like we were squished in! I feel so grateful for the stay at Ripples, thank you, Trudy and Brendan, this is a piece of paradise! A nice little getaway within our little village. We will be back!

Wayne

Australia Dec 22

"Ripples exceeded our expectations and for us, the highlight was the absolute privacy and serenity, being lulled into sleep by the sounds of the river and woken by bird life calls" 
Bonnie-J
New Zealand Dec 22
"The most amazing place to stay! All the small details really made it extra inviting like the fresh free range eggs & lemons left in the fridge, homemade infused ice cubes for hot/cold drinks and more. The river was stunning and that outdoor bath was 👌. Will definitely recommend and would love to come back again. Really friendly hosts as well."

Amanda & Mario

USA & Austria Nov 22

BEST AIRBNB EVER!!!! Literally don’t look any further, this place blew us away so much we were speechless. We had the most relaxing stay and will definitely be coming back the next time we travel through New Zealand. Trudy and Brenden are fantastic hosts who were so lovely and kind. The space is so well designed and you feel completely alone with nature. If you’re ever in New Zealand this Airbnb is a MUST STAY!

Alyssa Moore

Auckland Sept 22

“Absolutely breathtaking!! We really don't want to leave! Thank you so much to Trudy and Brendan for making our stay so magical. The care and attention to detail you have put into this little slice of heaven is unmatched. We loved chilling on the deck, listening to the river and birds, with a glass of wine in hand. The outdoor bath was glorious in the early evening when the sun went down. And our personal fave was getting to feed your beautiful baby lamb! You've literally thought of everything. We hope to be back soon! Thank you both so much!!!

Tracey Simon

Auckland Oct 22

Best getaway I have ever been on (from someone fussy about accommodation). Ripples Retreat is a perfect getaway, well equipped with thoughtful extras warmly provided by the owners (farm fresh goodies, games, a digital detox box that encourages you to disconnect like you should), tucked away into pristine nature yet with every luxury retained.

The cabin is well designed, beautiful and modern, with a very much fully fledged kitchen so you can cook anything you'd want to, plus great shower pressure (so hard to find).

The backdrop and location is quite literally out of a movie and looks exactly the part - stunning.

No photos can truly do this place justice. Will be back in a heartbeat.

Georg Birch

UK Oct 22

Ripples Retreat is an absolute dream. From the moment we pulled up we were in awe of our surroundings and the beautiful little cabin by the river. We had the most relaxing stay. Taking in the views from the tree swing, listening to the sounds of birds, cows and the breeze. The decor, amenities & just the amount of thought that has gone into this place was unreal! I would highly recommend this place to anyone wanting a relaxing, unique escape! Trudy, the host was wonderful and told us about what to do in the area, she left us to enjoy our stay but made it clear she was around if we needed! Couldn’t have asked for a better experience! 11/10 😋
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