Ao Marama Retreat is an extraordinary place. We had an extended family gathering there and so had the whole place to ourselves. It is not conventional pristine luxury but you have privacy, space, peace and beauty. We were 9 adults and 5 children and a baby. All the adults/couples had their own rooms (mostly seperate cabins) and the kids bunked down together. The main house had a spacious cooking and dining/lounge area which easily held us all - and we loved the outside dining area which was spectacular in fine weather. The outside showers were perfect to use when returning from the beach and we turned the outside kitchen into our private rustic cafe. We could all be together or find our own quiet places to relax. Elizabeth and Duan were very helpful and kind and our grandchildren loved feeding the animals and playing in the bush. We used both the walking and driving access to the beach directly below the retreat on a daily basis as well as visiting many of the amazing places nearby.

We used Ao Marama for a long weekend to celebrate my Mum's 80th birthday. It was absolutely perfect for 3 large families to get together for various activities, with the main building used for most of the socialising and cooking, and separate bedroom units to accommodate the family members and partners. We loved the access to the beach, the outdoor dining area and couches next to the BBQ, the beautiful sunrises and sunsets, and close proximity to Collingwood, Takaka, amazing swimming holes, Pupu Springs and caves, and the relaxing feel of the place. A weekend to remember!! Elizabeth and Duan were superb hosts ensuring we had everything we needed. Many thanks it could not have gone any better.

Lovely spot for a family Christmas, loved the sundeck and the views, while the cabins gave everyone their own space.