Essene Country Retreat

Essene Country Retreat

Essene Country Lodge is more than a place to stay, it's an invitation to slow down. Set on our family lifestyle property in the Waikato, this spacious three-bedroom, two-bathroom retreat comfortably accommodates up to six guests. Wake to birdsong, enjoy a deep night's sleep, wander the gardens and orchard, soak in the hot tub, and reconnect over fresh seasonal food and uninterrupted conversation.

I've called this property home since I was 11 years old. In 1982, Bruce and I began dairy farming here for my Mum and Dad. Back then, 100 Jersey cows crossed the road each day between paddocks to a walk-through milking shed on our 100-acre farm. Over the decades it has been a place to raise our children, welcome our grandchildren, and create memories across four generations. Today, although the farm has become a peaceful 1.6-hectare lifestyle property, we all still affectionately call it "the farm."

We created Essene Country Lodge to offer more than accommodation. We wanted to create a place where people could step away from the busyness of everyday life, restore their energy through simple living, and reconnect with what matters most.

Conveniently located just five minutes from Hamilton Airport and 15 minutes from Cambridge and Lake Karapiro, it's the perfect base whether you're travelling for work, reconnecting with family, or simply seeking a peaceful escape. We look forward to welcoming you to a little piece of our family's story.