Otago Retreat, Cape Saunders, New Zealand

Kaimata Retreat Introduction

Kaimata Retreat is a captivatingly remote haven set amidst raw nature and stunning beauty on the world renown Otago Peninsula, Dunedin.

Our Otago retreat's peaceful surrounds provide unparalleled serenity and relaxation with sweeping views of Papanui inlet, isolated Victory Beach and the distant South Pacific Ocean.

Nestled into a gentle hillside at Cape Saunders, just metres above a tidal inlet bountiful with bird species and marine mammals, Kaimata Retreat offers secluded eco retreat accommodation for the discerning visitor.

Kaimata Retreat is the ultimate in luxury accommodation. Our eco friendly lodge is perfectly placed for majestic coastal water views of Otago Peninsula. Whether you are looking for exclusive accommodation close to Dunedin or want to experience the Otago Peninsula nature and wildlife in complete luxury, this is your sanctuary...

Otago Peninsula Retreat Accommodation

Self-catering with three intimate bedrooms, Kaimata offers quiet seclusion from which to explore the wonders of the Otago Peninsula. Breathe fresh sea air and listen to the gentle lapping of tidal water whilst watching the resident Hooker Sea Lions leisurely at play.

En suites and the private bathroom feature high pressure showers, heated towel rails and mirror demisters. Kaimata uses rejuvenating Living Nature toiletry products which are formulated with native New Zealand ingredients and fragrances.

Korimako Room – The largest room. The deck faces Papanui Inlet and the distant back dunes of Victory beach. The room has a king-size bed and a comfortable sitting area faces the rear courtyard. The room can also accommodate a further single bed by prior arrangement. A private wheelchair accessible bathroom is located directly beside the bedroom.

The Bellbird known as Korimako is the spirit bird of indigenous Maori, carrying messages to and from the gods. A protected endemic bird, the Korimako is renowned for its bell like notes and beautiful dawn chorus.

Kahu Room – Offers the most expansive views and includes an en suite. The deck has seating for two people and a panoramic vista of the tidal inlet and Kaimata's beach below you.

The Australasian Harrier Hawk is known by Maori as Kahu. Kahu is a protected native and often seen soaring high on the thermals or hovering over Kaimata as they hunt for prey.

Kotare Room – The smaller room, includes an en suite. The deck has seating for two people and also has a panoramic view overlooking Papanui Inlet and Kaimata's beach below.

The Kingfisher known by Maori as Kotare, possesses brilliant greenish blue colouring. A protected native, the Kotare bird is often seen perching on driftwood and feeding on small crabs from Kaimata's beach.

Each bedroom at Kaimata has been named after one of the many visiting native birds. All rooms have under floor heating, are lined with wool bats and have a luggage store area. Kaimata uses cotton bed linen and feather and down blankets.

Betty's Bach

Betty's Bach is an original kiwi bach (crib/holiday home) offering self-contained, self-catering accommodation for up to four people.

Practical with all basic amenities, just relax and enjoy the wonderful natural environment of the Otago Peninsula. Located waterside on Papanui Inlet offering uncomplicated easy living.

• Table seating for four people
• Wood burner – firewood supplied
• Free view 30cm TV
• One queen bedroom
• Two single bunk beds
• Separate shower
• Separate toilet

For bookings and further information about our eco retreat accommodation, please contact us, visit our Otago peninsula retreat Web site or make a booking.

Kaimata Activities

Encounter original experiences and create irreplaceable memories from Kaimata:

• Relax to stunning 180° views over Papanui Inlet, the Pyramids and Victory Beach
• Appreciate marine bird and wildlife discreetly from the expansive decks or up close from the private beach
• Rowboat or kayak the estuary, swim or snorkel, surf nearby beach breaks
• Take a mountain bike and discover the sights of Cape Saunders (Kaimata) or Victory Beach
• Discover the loop walk through the wind cast sand dunes of isolated Victory Beach to the wave worn rock feature known as The Pyramids
• Encounter the windswept sea cliffs of Cape Saunders and the now deserted lighthouse

Otago Peninsula Activities

• Visit rare Royal Albatross and yellow-eyed penguin sanctuaries
• Explore Taiaroa Head's pre-European Maori pa site and historic Pakeha defence battlements
• Catch sight of occasional visiting common dolphins and rare Southern Right whales
• Surf on one of the many Otago Peninsula beaches
• Discover the rare hooker sea lions and fur seal colonies
• Trek to Sandymount to see the 220 metre 'Chasm' and collapsed sea cave known as Lovers Leap
• Take a heritage tour of infamous Larnach Castle, New Zealand's only castle
• Enjoy Glenfalloch's beautiful woodland gardens and café or restaurant
• Learn about local marine life at the Marine Centre in Portobello
• Run down Otago's largest sand dune at Sandfly Bay then at dusk, glimpse the rare yellow-eyed penguin from hides scattered in the dunes above the beach

For bookings and further information about our eco retreat accommodation, please contact us, visit our Otago peninsula retreat Web site or make a booking.