5 Tips for Planning a Romantic Wedding Anniversary Retreat in New Zealand

What do you imagine when thinking about your wedding anniversary? Maybe you’re thinking of a cosy chalet with a gorgeous view and dining with your lifelong partner as you watch the sunset. Whatever it may be, we all have our own ideas of the perfect romantic getaway to celebrate this milestone in life. That said, daydreaming about the trip is the easy part; planning and making it happen is much more daunting. Indeed, arranging the details of your romantic retreat can feel overwhelming—but don’t fret! Here are some tips and ideas to get started so that you can have the wedding anniversary of your dreams.

1. Reconnect With Nature

Perhaps the most important decision you have to make for an anniversary trip is your destination. While some might say “anywhere is fine, as long as I’m with the love of my life,” it’s definitely worth the effort to put more thought into where you’ll celebrate.

With how hectic real life can be, why not take your wedding anniversary as an opportunity to be one with nature again? You can look for a chalet Taupo locals and tourists highly recommend, such as The Retreat. This lakeside retreat has a perfect view of Lake Taupo as soon as you step out of your chalet. Combine that with the tall trees scattered throughout the home, the lush, quiet environment, and a perfectly clear sky, and you’ve got a recipe for a picturesque holiday with your spouse. You can admire the beauty that Mother Nature has to offer, all while celebrating the love you’ve shared over the years.

2. Bring Your Kids and Pets

Some couples prefer to go on their anniversary retreat alone, with no one but each other as company. Other couples would rather bring along their kids and share their happiness and love to celebrate. If you and your spouse fall into the latter category, The Retreat is an ideal destination. Our chalets can accommodate up to seven guests, so every member of the family can bask in ultimate comfort. We’re also pet-friendly, so there’s no need to hire a pet sitter while you go on your holiday.

3. Splurge on Accommodations

Your anniversary is the perfect time to treat yourself and your spouse. No matter what your itinerary will be for your romantic trip, you and your partner deserve to return to the perfect home at the end of each day. When looking for accommodations, pay close attention to the amenities and other benefits offered. Some luxury options have indoor pools, outdoor decks with a barbecue, and on-site staff ready to assist you at all times. Whether you’re looking for the perfect staycation chalet where you can be cosy and wrapped up in each other all day or just a plush, comfortable home to return to after a day filled with activities, a luxurious accommodation can make all the difference to your romantic retreat.

4. Disconnect From The Outside World

Let’s face it: routines can get tiring. So many people rush through meeting work deadlines and taking care of their families that they don’t have as much time to spend with their partners. If this sounds like a familiar scenario to you, then your romantic anniversary getaway is your chance to take a break from your everyday routine.

When planning for your anniversary trip, commit to disconnecting from the outside world entirely. Consider switching off your devices for a while, or setting aside time each day to be truly present with your partner and tell your loved ones to only contact you in case of emergencies. This gets rid of any typical distractions and lets you properly connect with your partner for the entire trip.

5. Add New Experiences to the Itinerary

The best way to make your special trip memorable is to pack your itinerary with new and unique experiences to try with your partner. Taste the local cuisine, explore your destination’s rich history and culture, and take in the gorgeous sights and fresh air that nature has to offer, all while savouring every moment with your life partner. You can even step out of your comfort zones together by trying out a new and intimidating activity. It may get your heart racing, but it’ll certainly make your anniversary trip one to remember for years to come.

Celebrate Your Love Story With a Romantic Lakeside Getaway

If you and your partner are looking for the perfect cosy chalet away from home, The Retreat is your ideal getaway. Nestled at the banks of Lake Taupo and only a five-minute drive from Taupo township, you and your other half can rediscover the beauty of nature as you celebrate an important milestone in your shared life together. Book your comfortable lakeside chalet for a memorable anniversary

How to Plan a Relaxing Unplugged Holiday in Taupō

With so much of our daily life in Aotearoa spent online, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by constant notifications and updates. Taking a step back from screens with an “unplugged” holiday offers a refreshing remedy, one that encourages genuine relaxation, meaningful connection, and a deeper appreciation of your surroundings.

If you’re looking for the perfect spot for that escape, look no further than Taupo. Nestled beside New Zealand’s largest lake and surrounded by volcanic landscapes, Taupo offers natural hot springs, tranquil hiking trails, and adventure activities such as kayaking to the Mine Bay Māori rock carvings and trout fishing, all of which encourage full immersion in the outdoors. You can enhance the experience even further by booking a chalet Taupo visitors highly recommend like the ones here at The Retreat, where you can truly soak in the area’s breathtaking beauty.

Planning your own unplugged getaway soon? We’ve put together some helpful tips to ensure you have a comfortable and unforgettable experience.

1. Book Comfortable Accommodation

The right accommodation is vital to ensuring a relaxing unplugged holiday. Make sure to choose a place that offers not only comfort but also a strong connection to nature. In Taupo, you’ll find plenty of options, but chalets stand out for their unique tranquillity, stunning views, and easy access to outdoor activities. Opting for one of The Retreat’s lakeside chalets provides the ideal setting to unwind and disconnect from the digital world, allowing you to fully embrace the serenity of your surroundings.

By planning ahead and booking the ideal spot, you’ll ensure your stay is as restful as possible. A peaceful, comfortable place to return to after a day of exploring will certainly make your getaway even more enjoyable.

2. Research Outdoor Activities in Advance

A key aspect of an unplugged holiday is spending time outdoors, and Taupo offers plenty of opportunities to do just that. Take the time to plan activities that allow you to fully immerse yourself in nature, whether it’s hiking in Tongariro National Park, soaking in geothermal hot springs, or fishing in Lake Taupo. Plan these activities in advance so you can spend more time relaxing and less time deciding what to do next.

3. Set Clear Boundaries for Screen Time

To make the most of your unplugged holiday, it’s important to set clear boundaries around your screen time. Before your trip, decide how often you’ll check your devices. You might also want to inform friends, family, or colleagues that you’ll be offline for the duration of your stay. Let them know that you’ll be generally inaccessible and only contact you in case of an emergency.

Having these boundaries in place will help you resist the temptation to check your phone constantly. This allows you to focus more on your surroundings and the people around you, making your vacation even more meaningful.

4. Look Into Local Wellness and Food Experiences

Taupō offers a range of wellness experiences to help you fully unwind—whatever ‘relaxation’ means to you.. Do you love getting pampered in a spa, indulging in good food, or perhaps both? Taupo has something that will nourish both your body and mind during your holiday. As mentioned, it’s best to plan these activities ahead so you don’t have to decide on the spot and feel pressured to make a choice.

5. Pack Mindfully for Your Trip

Packing mindfully is another essential part of a successful unplugged holiday. Since you’ll likely spend most of your time outdoors, think about what will help you feel comfortable and connected to nature. Bring along clothing suited to the weather and your planned activities, a good book for quiet moments, and perhaps a journal to reflect on your experiences.

Also, when you pack with intention, you’re less likely to forget anything, which means less worry, less stress, and more relaxation.

6. Plan for Downtime and Flexibility

While it’s tempting to fill your itinerary with activities, it’s just as important to plan for downtime. Over-scheduling can quickly become stressful, so leave space for rest and unstructured moments. It’s all up to you what to do in these moments: read by the lake, enjoy a quiet walk with no set destination, or even do nothing at all. Spending time to simply be present can make your holiday far more restorative.

Flexibility is just as vital. Some of the most memorable moments happen when you set the schedule aside and embrace the slower pace of life. Giving yourself room to breathe helps ensure your Taupo holiday remains relaxing and enjoyable from start to finish.

By thoughtfully planning your unplugged holiday, you’ll set the stage for a truly rejuvenating escape from the city rush or the daily grind. Taupo is the ideal place to disconnect and recharge, offering natural beauty and a peaceful atmosphere that invites you to slow down. To make the most of your visit, consider staying at The Retreat. Our lakeside chalets combine comfort, seclusion, and stunning surroundings, providing the perfect base to relax and unwind. Get in touch today to enquire about bookings and start planning your tranquil escape.

7 Self-Care Ideas for a Genuinely Relaxing Taupō Holiday

When was the last time you came back from a holiday actually feeling rested—like after a quiet weekend at the bach? Not just with a hundred new photos and a suitcase full of laundry, but properly recharged—body, mind, and soul. The truth is, too many getaways are planned like military operations: early check-ins, packed schedules, and barely a moment to sit still.

A relaxing holiday isn’t built on endless notifications and back-to-back activities. It starts by slowing down and choosing a space that invites you to breathe easier. It’s no wonder the kind of accommodation Taupo visitors usually go to offers more than just a place to sleep—it’s about the full experience of ease and comfort. That’s exactly what we’ve created at The Retreat, where peaceful chalets, lakeside views, and a pet-friendly setting make it easier to truly unwind.

If you’re wondering how to truly make the most of your next getaway, here are a few self-care ideas worth bringing along for the ride.

Unplug from Tech and Plug into Nature

You don’t need to go full caveman and toss your phone in the lake, but a little digital distance can do wonders for your mental reset. Between endless notifications, doomscrolling, and inbox guilt, your brain deserves a break. Instead of reaching for your screen first thing, step outside and let your senses wake up with the morning air. At The Retreat, it’s easy to swap screen time for green time. The twittering birds do a better job than any playlist, and the lake certainly doesn’t need a filter.

Leave your devices in a drawer, take a stroll along the water, or just sit quietly under the trees. It’s not about strict rules, it’s about giving your mind some breathing room. Trust us, your group chat will survive a few hours without updates (and you’ll return feeling far more human).

Indulge in Slow Mornings

There’s something magical about waking up with nowhere to be: no alarms, no commutes, no plans demanding your attention. A slow morning is your quiet rebellion against the usual race of daily life. Let the light ease into your room, stretch in bed like a very satisfied cat, and drift into the day at your own pace.

Step outside wrapped in something cosy, breathe in the fresh air, and let the surrounding nature be the first thing you properly notice. Maybe you’ll brew a coffee, maybe you’ll just sit with the sunrise. However you spend those first moments, savour the rare gift of moving slowly. After all, holidays aren’t for hurrying.

Book a “Do-Nothing” Afternoon

Why do we treat doing nothing like a guilty pleasure when it’s one of the purest forms of self-care? In a world obsessed with productivity, doing nothing is practically a revolutionary act. Give yourself permission to block off an afternoon with no plans, no goals, and no apologies. Think of it as a meeting with yourself, where the only agenda says: nap, stare at clouds, or invent shapes in the trees.

Find a comfy spot under the sun. Bring a book you might not even open. Then, let time stretch out the way it used to when you were a kid.. If you drift into a nap halfway through a sentence, congratulations—you’re doing it right! The beauty of a do-nothing afternoon is that there’s no wrong way to enjoy it. In fact, the less you try to “achieve,” the better it usually turns out.

Move Your Body Gently

Self-care doesn’t have to come with a sweat towel and a stopwatch. Sometimes, the kindest thing you can do for yourself is to move just enough to feel alive again. Try a slow stroll by the water, stretch out under a shady tree, or roll through a few easy yoga poses without worrying about perfect form.

If you’re travelling with friends or family, turn movement into something joyful: a lazy bike ride, a barefoot walk across the grass, or a lighthearted attempt at tree pose that ends in laughter. It’s not about burning calories or smashing records, but rather giving your body a gentle reminder that it’s made to move, breathe, and feel good. Bonus points if you manage it in your comfiest clothes.

Pamper Yourself with a DIY Spa Day

Who says you need a fancy spa menu to feel pampered? All you need is a little creativity… and maybe a face mask or two. At The Retreat, our peaceful chalets make it easy to turn your space into a private sanctuary. Run a warm bath, slather on a nourishing treatment, or simply lounge around in your fluffiest robe pretending you’re booked out for the day.

Add a few drops of essential oil to the shower, light a candle (safely!), or give yourself a leisurely foot massage while listening to the birds. Your self-care doesn’t have to be picture-perfect. What matters is that you create tiny rituals that make you feel looked after. You deserve every moment of it.

Reconnect Over Good Food

Few things bring people together faster than good food, and sometimes, the kindest thing you can do for yourself is to slow down and savour it. Whether you whip up a casual breakfast, fire up a classic Kiwi BBQ with fresh-caught fish or simply share a grazing platter, eating together can turn an ordinary moment into a small act of self-care.

You don’t even need fancy recipes or perfectly folded napkins. A picnic on the deck, a sunset dinner with a view, or even a lazy brunch in your pyjamas will do nicely. Nourishing your body and sharing laughter with others are simple but powerful ways to recharge.

Let Pets Join the Holiday Vibes

Nothing says relaxation like seeing your dog’s ears flap wildly in the breeze or your cat claim a sun-warmed patch of floor as royal territory. Pets are naturals at living in the moment, and bringing them along for the holiday can make your self-care time even richer.

At The Retreat, we welcome your four-legged family members with open arms (and maybe a few belly rubs). Take a lakeside stroll together, share a quiet afternoon on the deck, or simply let your pet’s joy remind you how simple happiness can be. Slowing down isn’t just good for humans, it’s good for animals too. Plus, cuddles are proven to boost moods. Ready to unwind? Discover our peaceful chalets at The Retreat.

A truly relaxing holiday isn’t about ticking boxes. It’s about tuning in to what you need, whether that’s stillness, fresh air, or a long nap beside someone who purrs. However you define self-care, let it guide you. And if you’re looking for a place where unwinding feels effortless, we’d love to welcome you to The Retreat. We’ll have the lake, the peace, and the pet-friendly vibes ready and waiting. Ready to relax lakeside? Book your stay at The Retreat and let the unwinding begin.

Chalet vs. Hotel: Which One Offers a Better Vacation Experience?

These days, planning a holiday is as much about where you stay as it is about where you’re going. Gone are the days when hotels were the default—now, you’re spoiled for choice. From quirky tiny homes to luxury tents and everything in between, the world of travel accommodation has expanded in some exciting (and occasionally unexpected) directions. And let’s face it: when you’re taking precious time off, you want a place that feels like an experience unto itself, not just a place to crash.

You’ll get just that if you choose to rent a chalet. Tucked away from the hustle and bustle, they offer what many travellers crave—space, privacy, and that comforting “home away from home” feeling. If you’re curious in particular about a chalet Taupo visitors always recommend, The Retreat has you covered with beautifully designed lakeside chalets set among peaceful grounds and native trees. It’s the kind of place where you can unwind properly no matter the occasion or the size of the group you’re traveling with.

In this feature, you’ll find a side-by-side look at chalets and hotels to help you figure out which option suits your style of travel best. No spoilers here—just an honest, practical look at both, with a few insights to help you book your next stay with confidence.

Chalets: More Personal, Cosy, and Flexible

Imagine waking up to birdsong instead of hallway chatter, wandering barefoot to the kitchen to make breakfast at your own pace, and sipping coffee on a private deck while the rest of the world carries on somewhere else. That’s the charm of staying in a chalet—it’s not just a bed for the night, it’s your own little world for the weekend (or longer).

One of the biggest perks? Space. Chalets are typically laid out like small homes, so they give you lots of room to spread out, unwind, and just be. You might be travelling with family, a group of friends, or a partner who insists on packing for every possible weather event. Any way you slice it, you won’t be squeezing into a single room with suitcases underfoot. You get living areas, separate bedrooms, and often full kitchens—so if you feel like whipping up dinner in your pyjamas, no one’s stopping you.

A chalet is also sure to be loads more flexible than a stay at a hotel. You’re not beholden to housekeeping schedules, breakfast cut-offs, or lobby crowds. You set the rhythm of your day. That makes them ideal for longer getaways or occasions where you want a bit more control over your time and space.
At The Retreat in Taupō, for example, you’ll find all of this and more. Each chalet is self-contained and thoughtfully furnished, complete with a full kitchen, laundry facilities, and private outdoor areas. There’s even access to spa pools, a heated indoor pool, and your own barbecue setup. It’s the kind of place where you can settle in without sacrificing comfort—or scenery.

Hotels: Convenient, Serviced, and Central

There’s something to be said for the ease of rolling up to a hotel and checking in at the front desk, knowing exactly what to expect all the while. If you value structure and convenience when travelling—or you simply want to drop your bags and dive straight into sightseeing—hotels are predictable in a way that can be oddly comforting.

Need fresh towels? Call housekeeping. Hungry at 10 p.m.? Room service is just a menu flip away. Hotels are built to take care of things for you, which can be a real plus if you’re on a tight schedule or just don’t feel like doing the dishes on holiday. They also tend to be centrally located, so they’re an especially solid option if you want to be close to shops, restaurants, and major attractions.
That said, the trade-off is usually space and privacy. Hotel rooms can feel a bit… well, samey. You could be in Auckland, Amsterdam, or Adelaide, the layout and décor often blend into one global template. When you’re travelling solo or just staying a night or two, that might be perfectly fine. But if you’re with kids, friends, or anyone who likes to pace while on the phone, things can get cramped quickly.

And while services are convenient, they come with strings attached—like check-in times, limited control over meals, and the occasional noisy neighbour just a wall away. Simply put, hotels are great for short, structured stays, but they don’t always deliver that sense of escape that longer holidays or special occasions call for.

Which Is Better?

The answer to this burning question really depends on the kind of trip you’re planning—and who’s coming along for the ride. Say you’re popping into a city for a conference, catching an early flight, or just need a place to sleep between full days of exploring. In those cases, a hotel might tick all the boxes. It’s convenient, no-fuss, and gets the job done.

But if your idea of a holiday involves slow mornings and evenings spent chatting over a glass of wine without worrying about the people in the room next door, a chalet will give you a whole different kind of experience. It’s especially well-suited to longer stays, romantic getaways, family trips, or group holidays where having space—and a bit of independence—makes the time you spend truly unforgettable.

Chalets give you room to breathe, both literally and figuratively. You’re truly living there rather than simply using it for accommodations, even if just for a few days. And when you find one that’s well-designed, well-located, and well-managed, it can turn a good holiday into a great one.

Where you stay can shape the feel of your entire holiday. It’s not just about the amenities—it’s about how well the space fits the pace, purpose, and people involved. When you’re after something more relaxed, more personal, and a little more you, chalets always deliver.

6 Reasons Why a Chalet Is the Perfect Choice for Your Next Vacation Getaway

When it comes to planning the perfect holiday, your accommodations make all the difference. Sure, there’s a lot going for hotels and resorts, but there is nothing quite like staying in a chalet. Waking up in a cosy, private space without having to bump into strangers at the lobby for your morning coffee is already a draw in itself, but there’s a lot more to be said about the chalet life.

Aside from being positively charming from the outside, a chalet’s combination of cosy interiors and panoramic windows make for a wonderful home away from home, especially if it’s in a beautiful spot like Lake Taupō. When you rent a chalet Taupo visitors frequent, the area’s natural beauty will open up like you never imagined.

Let’s delve into some important reasons why a chalet might just be the ideal home base for your next Taupō holiday.

1. Unparalleled Privacy and Seclusion

It doesn’t matter how “private” you think a hotel is. At some point, you’re bound to run into people you don’t know. Granted, that’s not the end of the world, but that’s not what privacy is. Renting a chalet, on the other hand, gives you real privacy, in every sense of the word.

Unlike bustling hotels where thin walls and crowded common areas can intrude on your peace, chalets offer you and those you hold dear a truly secluded retreat. A chalet on the banks of Lake Taupō can provide a genuine escape from the cacophony of daily life, completely uninterrupted by the necessities typical of more communal accommodations.

2. Spacious Comfort for Groups

If you’re travelling with family or a group of friends, chalets are the best possible choice. Their layouts make them tailor-made for group stays, offering ample space and a cosy atmosphere that far surpasses the confines you’d expect at standard hotel rooms. They typically feature multiple bedrooms, expansive living areas, as well as amenities like outdoor patios, so everyone can enjoy both communal activities and personal downtime at their own pace. This setup is ideal for all kinds of groups, from multigenerational families to close-knit groups of intimate friends, giving all members of your party the space, privacy, and socialisation options they need.

3. Home-Like Amenities

When we said that the chalets were a wonderful home away from home, we meant it. One of the joys of staying in a chalet is the array of home-like amenities at your disposal. Many chalets, including all of those at The Retreat, feature fully-equipped kitchens that far surpass that lonely electric kettle you see in standard hotel rooms. Cooking away from home will never be more fun or friendly to specific dietary preferences.

The conveniences don’t end there. Many chalets also feature laundry facilities, which means you can pack lighter and manage your wardrobe with ease. Some also have work desks that can comfortably accommodate those working away from home. These conveniences give your stay a real sense of normalcy that truly makes you feel at home during your holiday.

4. Immersive Natural Experiences

Chalets offer panoramic views by design, making them the perfect way to experience picturesque locales. You won’t even need to leave them to experience nature’s splendours, making them as fun for homebodies as they are for adventurers. Even mundane daily rituals like brewing coffee or checking emails become that much better when you experience the natural world through the windows of your chalet. Whether you rent one perched atop a snow-covered mountain or one that’s overlooking a serene lake, a chalet will give you the best possible way to take in the world’s most breathtaking landscapes.

5. Cost-Effective for Extended Stays

If you’re planning a longer holiday, chalets can be more cost-effective than standard hotel and resort accommodations, especially for large groups. With a kitchen, laundry area, and other amenities, you won’t have to pay extra for meals or laundry service, saving you cash right out of the gate. Longer stays and larger parties can also sometimes qualify for discounts, making them an economical choice for all kinds of prolonged getaways.

6. Unique and Memorable Experiences

Just think about the novelty of staying in a cosy and relaxing chalet. The classic architecture, beautiful interiors, and personalised touches all come together to give you a holiday that’s both charming and memorable. That’s not even counting the wonders just outside the door. You’ll have the time of your life, whether you’re gathering around a roaring fireplace with close friends or simply relishing the tranquillity of your surroundings in the living area. In a chalet, even mundane moments become special and truly unforgettable.

Retreat to Your Perfect Lakeside Getaway

The Retreat offers you and your party privacy, wonderful vistas, and homespun touches right at the banks of Lake Taupō. You’ll love our thoughtfully selected amenities and the lasting memories you’ll create with your family and friends. Get in touch today to start planning a romantic escape, a family holiday, or a trip with friends.