Kahere Retreat — Hotel in South Island

After three weeks of travels across Australia and the NZ South Island, we found ourselves with one night at Kahere Retreat. Fog had descended on the valley as we entered Kahere, giving the visit a feeling of Shangri-La. A jar awaited us at the front sign, giving instructions to our cabin. The 7-hour drive (with stops) from Queenstown left me wanting to walk, so I explored the area while my husband unpacked in our (beautifully-designed) Cabin 5.

Kahere gave me what I needed after three weeks of travel, people and cities. Peace. I played with the owner’s lab/spaniel pup, greeted the neighbor’s horse, cattle and sheep and viewed the river bed behind our cabin (logging 2 miles in the process).

Before dinner we sauna’ed and used the outdoor shower before making ourselves tacos with all local ingredients purchased at the Four Square in Franz Josef. Eating in the dark, looking out at the valley through the large glass wall, we took in the details lovingly instilled in our cabin: we couldn’t see another neighbor - each cabin oriented to give privacy; we had room to sit and cuddle; the stairs fit well into the space; the kitchen had everything we needed; the bathroom built by hand; and the beds ready for us to sleep soundly. Which we did.

We will definitely return to Kahere Retreat; and will tell everyone we know to...

Highlights|+ Very cool and uniquely created Chalet with beautiful tones and essentials. |+ Location is a few minutes drive from Franz Josef main hub and there is not many food options open late so preparation is key. |+ The sauna and spa hot tub were excellent and a definite highlight of the stay.|+ Parking is right outside of your Chalet for easy access.|+ Bedding for 4 was comfy and warm.|+ Great communication and overall service.|+ Wifi was great and there is no TV but plenty to do.||Areas for improvement|+ There were several ants with wings on the inside of the front deck doors behind the curtains which we easily cleaned up but bug spray and repellent would have been ideal. We carried our own so were able to address it. |+ Not an improvement but a top tip to travellers is that the stairs are uniquely shaped and can nip the back of your ankles if you misjudge the distance on some steps. We recommend going down sideways. |+ There is no set place to put your luggage unless you use one of the beds or couches. ||This is a unique stay that would be perfect for getting some quiet time away. Come prepared with all of your goods to...

Eco-tiny house vibes, the chalets are just perfect for couple or young families. They have clearly been built with real love and a personal touch which is visible in the details of the finishing. Best for self catering as they are a little out of Franz Josef village, but the kitchenette is thoughtfully appointed with everything you need to make a great meal including a nice oven and gas hob. The master bed was so comfy with beautiful linen and waking to rain on the roof just over our heads was a scrummy. The shared spa and sauna with mountain views was a treat - and the spa is the cleanest water I’ve ever seen in a share situation. Only thing is the stairs are steep so if may not be great for those with poor mobility. No TV (which is a plus in my eyes) but great wifi. ||The negative reviews here are missing the point. This is an escape to a beautifully designed and appointed tiny house / chalet in the middle of one of the most beautiful spots in NZ, not a hotel. Can I live...