Aro Ha Review | Samantha Lippiatt
"Aro Ha is a true haven for holistic wellness nestled amidst New Zealand's breathtaking Southern Alps. With its stunning eco-friendly design, nourishing plant-based cuisine, and transformative wellness programs, Aro Ha offers a profound retreat experience"
Located in New Zealand’s Southern Alps, just 40 minutes' drive from Queenstown, Aro Ha Wellness Retreat opened its doors in January 2014, offering award-winning all-inclusive healthy holidays that redefine wellbeing. All programs operate on set dates, with specialty retreats offered throughout the year.
The Property
Aro Ha encompasses multiple purpose built structures designed for relaxation and rejuvenation. The main community building houses reception, lounge, dining areas, and a fully equipped kitchen. The retreat features a spa area with treatment rooms, saunas, plunge pool, and heated spa, as well as luxury accommodation blocks. Central to the experience is the Aro Ha building, where yoga, Pilates, and functional training classes take place amidst zen-inspired rooms that blend comfort with natural beauty. Each room offers panoramic views of Lake Wakatipu, and bedrooms are adorned with woven natural dyed blankets and luxurious linens. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available in rooms, while mobile phone reception is intentionally limited to foster a distraction-free environment.
First Impressions
The landscape surrounding Aro Ha is breathtaking, setting the stage for a transformative retreat experience. Guests are welcomed into intimate groups, fostering friendships that support each other through tailored programs like the Winter Wellness retreats run from July to September each year. Each retreat begins with a comprehensive consultation and optional wellness assessment.
Health and Fitness Activities
Each day blends soft and hard activities designed to challenge and relax both body and mind. Mornings start with sunrise Vinyasa Yoga, offering stunning views of the changing landscape. Guests embark on spectacular sub-alpine hikes after breakfast, enjoying challenging elevations and breathtaking scenery under the guidance of knowledgeable staff. Functional training classes like Pilates or Dynamic Playground (TRX and circuit training mix) cater to varied fitness levels, complemented by enriching sessions such as cooking classes and sustainability talks.
The Cuisine
Aro Ha's cuisine is raw, nutrient-dense, and vegetarian, sourced directly from onsite gardens using permaculture techniques. Meals are served three times daily, supplemented with nourishing snacks, ensuring guests never feel hungry. The kitchen team accommodates dietary preferences through a pre-retreat questionnaire, while their expertise and approachability ensure a seamless dining experience.
Relaxation Time
Afternoon massages offer moments of relaxation, seamlessly integrated into the daily schedule to enhance flexibility and recovery. Restorative yoga sessions led by experienced instructors like retreat leader Rafa provide calming stretches and mindfulness practice, perfect for winding down after active days. Evenings are dedicated to spa treatments, journaling, and reconnecting with oneself and nature.
The Scenery & Surroundings
Set against the majestic Southern Alps, Aro Ha invites guests to reconnect with nature through unparalleled hiking experiences and serene landscapes that photos can hardly capture. Star gazing from the outdoor spa further enriches the retreat's natural allure.
The Staff
The Aro Ha team embodies warmth and expertise, delivering personalised service tailored to individual health and fitness goals. Their dedication ensures every guest enjoys an exceptional wellness journey, supported by attentive care throughout their stay.
Highlights
World-class hiking on the Routeburn Track, ranked among the top 10 tracks globally.
Sunrise yoga overlooking Lake Wakatipu.
Evening star gazing from the outdoor spa.
Notes & Recommendations
Pack waterproof hiking boots for outdoor excursions.
Embrace the opportunity to disconnect fully; Aro Ha encourages a technology-free environment for maximum benefit.
Extend your stay to explore nearby Queenstown, the adventure capital of the world.
A Typical Day
07:00 Vinyasa Yoga
08:00 Breakfast
09:30 Sub-alpine Hike
14:00 Lunch
15:00 Relaxation Time
16:15 Functional Training
17:30 Enrichment Session (e.g., cooking demonstration)
18:30 Restorative Yoga
19:30 Dinner
20:30 Spa Time
My Summary
My experience at Aro Ha culminated in noticeable improvements in my physical health and overall wellbeing. The retreat’s holistic approach and supportive environment enabled me to achieve significant results in just a few days, with lasting benefits for my everyday life. Aro Ha is ideal for solo travellers, couples, and friends seeking a profound wellness experience. Trust in the program, embrace the journey, and emerge feeling revitalised and empowered.
For More Information and to Book