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Orape Riverside Retreat

Orape Riverside Retreat

Whangārei, Northland


Orape Riverside Retreat is located 10 minutes from Whangarei and 2 hours from Auckland.

Tucked in native bush, this timber cabin feels a world away from everywhere.

A stream tumbles over a weir nearby, tui and kererū call through the canopy, and a short bush track leads to towering 800 year old kauri and a glow worm grotto after dark.

Inside the timber cabin you'll find a comfortable queen bed, kitchenette and two reading chairs looking out to the greenery. The loo and outdoor bathroom are a stone's throw from the cabin, along with an outdoor kitchen area, great for summer cooking on the barbecue. The outdoor bath sits among the trees for soaking within nature.

Everything here is built for slowing down, with the riverside walk into town only minutes away when you're ready to reconnect.

Last updated 14 Sept 2026

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Eating and drinking near Escape

EATING AND DRINKING

Orape Riverside Retreat is self-catering. Just bring your own food and drink, and cook meals using the single-ring electric stove and BBQ provided. You'll find all the cutlery, crockery, pots and pans that you'll need.

For dining out, The Wayward Italian is a 5-minute walk away, while The Quay, Aqua and Kafe are also nearby. Kafe is just across the road, with lovely riverside seating.

The nearest store for stocking up on food and supplies is in Whangarei, 10 minutes away.

Things to do near Escape

THINGS TO DO

Enjoy board games and card games in the cabin, or a nice hot soak in the outdoor bath. Stretch your legs and explore the property with a walk to the giant kauri trees and glow worms at night.

For more adventure, walk the 4.8km Hatea Loop along the river, visit the Hundertwasser Art Centre, discover Whangārei Falls or head up Mt Parihaka for beautiful views over the city. With beaches just a 20-minute drive away, there’s plenty to explore nearby.

Your hosts at Escape

YOUR HOSTS

Your hosts at Orape Riverside Retreat are Melanie and Turi.

Melanie and Turi have called the property home for about a decade. They love its unique setting, surrounded by native bush, birds and streams, while being just minutes from Whangārei. Their friendly pets, Taz, Shadow and Daisy, also have a love for the property and may be around to say hello!

TESTIMONIALS

“ Quaint little home away from home. Thoroughly enjoyed our stay! ”

- 2023-11-03

11 / 11

“ Beautiful little retreat set amongst the natives with the added bonus of friendly hosts! ”

Brittany Newman- 2026-03-30

1 / 11

“ Absolutely incredible. Every single thing. When you don’t want to leave a place, you know it’s good. Completely rested in nature. ”

Toni- 2026-02-15

2 / 11

“ Peaceful stay in nature. Loved it! ”

Chamilka Punchihewa- 2026-02-08

3 / 11

“ Amazing place to relax and unwind, we also enjoyed the location close to the town basin with great restaurants. ”

Bev Foster- 2025-11-16

4 / 11

“ This place was amazing, truly an experience not to be missed. The thoughtfulness of the owners is just outstanding. Absolutely filled my soul. ”

Hayley Goodall- 2025-11-11

5 / 11

“ So restful and relaxing, but a short walk to great cafes and restaurants. We loved that we could bring our dog too! ”

Kate- 2024-02-01

6 / 11

“ Great location: private and secluded in a bush setting, yet still only walking distance from Town Basin. Loved our stay. ”

- 2024-01-22

7 / 11

“ Beautiful place to stay that is close to nature. It's a great place to reset. ”

Aissa Aldridge- 2024-01-14

8 / 11

“ Loved our stay. Such a beautiful, peaceful setting amidst the bush with the sound of running water from the creek. The facilities were lovely, and lots of extra little things were thought about. Would highly recommend. ”

Selina Mason- 2023-12-18

9 / 11

“ We would definitely stay again; it was a wonderful place with a fantastic location. The hosts were super friendly as well. We had a fantastic time there. ”

Kayleigh Harvey- 2023-12-17

10 / 11

“ Quaint little home away from home. Thoroughly enjoyed our stay! ”

- 2023-11-03

11 / 11

“ Beautiful little retreat set amongst the natives with the added bonus of friendly hosts! ”

Brittany Newman- 2026-03-30

1 / 11

Scenic coastal landscape viewed through a golden tent opening, showing lush green hillside with forest line meeting turquoise ocean waters under clear blue sky

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