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Rock Retreat Bed and Breakfast Eco Retreat

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Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional
1 bathroomSleeps 4

Popular amenities

  • Breakfast included
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • Outdoor space
  • Parking available

Explore the area

View map
Te Kuiti, Waitomo
  • Place, Waitomo Glowworm Caves
    ‪6 min drive‬
  • Place, Caveworld
    ‪6 min drive‬
  • Place, Aranui Cave
    ‪7 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

0 bedrooms (sleeps 4)

Rock Retreat

1 Queen Bed and 2 Single Beds

1 bathroom

Rock Retreat

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Balcony
Separate dining area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Rock Retreat Bed and Breakfast Eco Retreat

Rock Retreat is a perfect place to get away from it all.It is ideal and popular with families,honeymoon couples,artists,musicians and writers.Great for reconnecting with yourself and your loved ones to enjoy well needed conversations that we often don't make time for in our busy lives. Curl up with a book by the log fire in winter or in the hammock on the balcony in summer.

Experience the peace and tranquility whilst absorbing stunning mountain and limestone views of the central North Island and our wild west coast hill country.

We have the best of both worlds. Peace and tranquility, yet only a short drive to Waitomo Caves village and Marokopa beach. We are minutes from the action, Caving, Black Water Rafting, Abseiling, Climbing, Bouldering, Surfing, Fishing, Walking, Bike riding, Kayaking & Ziplining.

We pride ourselves on being an eco friendly,self sufficient accommodation. Walk the Rock Retreat Rocks walk 30 minutes or The Misty mountain walk 1hr15mins right from Rock Retreat or have a free guided walk of our stunning Stubbs QE11 ,800 acre native bush covenant if you book 3 nights or more.Bookings required in advance.

Rock Retreat B&B is an eco friendly self sufficient cottage accommodation,completely separate to main house.Our source of power driven by solar and wind.

We accommodate 4pax comfortably,one oversized Queen bed in main room and two singles in loft above.Bathroom includes a bath,shower,toilet and washing machine.

Continental breakfast provided in cottage.Barbecue available for guests own use.

There is no WiFi access,but there are free WiFi options at The General store and The Huhu cafe in Waitomo village.

We are more than happy to book any Waitomo activities during your stay.It is a good idea to buy a 027 sim card for your cellphone when you arrive in New Zealand.

Book a Swedish/Relaxation Massage with Tanzanite Beauty therapy in the privacy of your own cottage,and relax.

Even though we have a lot of bookings for four adults,Rock Retreat is better suited to families of four,two adults,two children.Please be aware of this before booking.

Guest access:
Relax on your own private covered deck and watch the Tui and Bellbirds enjoy the flax.Look out for Kereru(wood pigeon) and N.Z Falcon.Spot our mountains on a clear day you will see Mount Hauturu,Pirongia,Kakepuku,Te Aroha,Maungatautari,Pureora,and Tongariro National park.

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Breakfast included
Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Outdoor space
Parking available

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Adults only
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a deadlock
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Waitomo Caves

Located in Waitomo Caves, this cottage is in a rural area and by the sea. Opapake Pa and Maketu Marae are local landmarks, and the area's natural beauty can be seen at Huipūtea Reserve and Waitomo Glowworm Caves. Kayaking and scuba diving offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with ecotours and cave exploring nearby.
View more Cottages in Waitomo CavesOpens in a new window
Map
Te Kuiti, Waitomo

What's nearby

  • Waitomo Glowworm Caves - 6 min drive - 10.0 km
  • Caveworld - 6 min drive - 10.4 km
  • Altura Gardens & Wildlife Park - 7 min drive - 11.5 km
  • Aranui Cave - 7 min drive - 11.1 km
  • Woodlyn Park - 8 min drive - 12.2 km

Getting around

  • Hamilton (HLZ-Hamilton Intl.) - 63 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Waitomo General Store - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Huhu Cafe - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Roselands Farm and Garden Restaurant - ‬16 min drive
  • ‪Tomo Bar And Eatery - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪The Long Black Cafe - ‬9 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Rock Retreat Bed and Breakfast Eco Retreat pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at Rock Retreat Bed and Breakfast Eco Retreat?

As of 1 April 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Rock Retreat Bed and Breakfast Eco Retreat on 18 May 2026 start from NZ$200, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

How much is parking at Rock Retreat Bed and Breakfast Eco Retreat?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Rock Retreat Bed and Breakfast Eco Retreat?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Rock Retreat Bed and Breakfast Eco Retreat?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Rock Retreat Bed and Breakfast Eco Retreat located?

Situated by the sea, this cottage is within 6 miles (10 km) of Waitomo Glowworm Caves, Caveworld and Waitomo Caves Discovery Centre. Woodlyn Park and Opapake Pa are also within 9 miles (15 km).

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 19 out of 21 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 21 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 21 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 21 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 21 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Rohit S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Was a lovely and comfortable stay, thanks a lot
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

TSP

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The host was very welcoming. Communication was excellent and the property had all the amenities that we needed. We enjoyed the proximity to our attraction, and the nature that surrounded the retreat.
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 12 December 2025
Thanks so much for staying at Rock Retreat. Glad you enjoyed your stay. Safe travels.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jacob

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Rock Retreat was the highlight of our honeymoon in New Zealand.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tina B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful Oasis!

Staying here was simply a pleasure! The views are amazing and the cottage is quaint and cozy…but is filled with everything you need to have an easy stay. It’s a close drive to lots of outdoor adventures and beaches too. Biddy is an amazing host!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Aaminah V.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
What an incredible place to simply enjoy. It felt like home. All the small touches of personal oversight were so warm and perfect. The art was incredible, from the paintings to the crochet blankets, to the patchwork. One night was not enough! I will definitely be back.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025
Verified

8/10 Good

Scott C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Handy aelf contained unit

My partner and I enjoyed our stay in this conveniently located unit which is well appointed and comfortable. Ww would recommend to others.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

MATT H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Spendid Isolation

Rock Retreat provided everything we were after: a beautifully built little house with everything needed, an amazing outlook in a healthy environment, and proximity to nearby attractions. Would definitely recommend and hope to stay again down the line.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 6 June 2022
Thanks Matt. It was lovely meeting your group. Glad you enjoyed your stay.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Glen C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Resplendent Rock Retreat

The Rock Retreat was a Roady Stop Off and I am so glad we did it ... the perfect spot for some alone time ... well catered and simply magical ... excellent hike through to Misty and Lonely Mountains ... Thoroughly recommend <3
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 14 March 2021
Thanks for the feedback Glen. It was lovely meeting you both. Loving all your photos.
Verified

6/10 Okay

John G.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location
Disliked: Cleanliness

Rural & rustic

I was aware this property was a) in a rural area and b) rustic in its setup, when I booked. It is a functional property in a very nice secluded position. Great for the caves exploring. However not sure the rustic approach is what I long for any more!! It’s Rustic!!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 7 March 2023
Thanks for your review John. We appreciate your honesty and realise living off grid is not for everyone. We love this lifestyle we have chosen and feel it is important to show others how easy it is to live simply.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Martin N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful cottage in the bush setting

Fabulous cottage in a bush setting with stunning views. Lovey hosts. A wonderful and relaxing experience. A ‘must do’.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Miguel C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Magical little spot

Very cute little cottage at the top of a beautiful hill with sweeping views. An excellent walk. Good facilities. It got a little toasty in the upstairs beds because the fireplace was very effective, but we thoroughly enjoyed our one night stay and would definitely recommend it - especially if you’re doing the caves
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ivana R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Rock Retreat

We absolutely loved our stay at the cottage, we woke up to a different view every morning and enjoyed what the area has to offer. Biddy was very lovely and accommodating. We will definitely come back and stay again :-)
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 2 May 2021
Thanks Ivana. It was lovely meeting you and the family. Thanks for staying.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Roland and Valerie M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

cozy cottage with vast views and great hosts

most enjoyable and great little walk on the doorstep
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Phil A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Quiet getaway

Loved it. Quiet location, a super cute and very comfortable property. Would happily stay again
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Michelle O.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful spot to relax and enjoy nature.

Very cute cottage, with everything you need for a very comfortable stay . The hiking on the farm was great with beautiful scenery . Biddy and her husband were very welcoming and available if you needed them. Wish we had booked for longer.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Andres A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Stunning view

Great experience, cozy house and amazing place.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2020
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Samuel M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Awesome Accommodation

veiw was amazing it was nice and cosy fireplace was nice we enjoyed our stay 😊👍
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Hanna W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

gorgeous

What a cute and gorgeous cottage, and what a view! Very compact for our group of 3 adults, but cosy and beautiful.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2020
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Anke K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great place to stay

This was a very cosy cottage with beautiful views, a great woodburner, nice little kitchen and lots of personal style, including art made by Biddy. We really enjoyed our stay and would love to visit again.
Response from VrboOwner on 22 June 2020
Thanks for staying at Rock Retreat. We’d love to have you stay again.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Eduard M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

David W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

About the host

Hosted by Biddy Stubbs

Host profile image
Rock Retreat is situated on the Stubbs farm. Which is a 1666acre working sheep and cattle farm nestled in the King Country, near Waitomo Caves, North Island, New Zealand. It includes over 800 acres of native bush reserved by a QEII covenant, along with North Islands key areas for bouldering and caving on classic limestone.

Endangered species such as New Zealands Whitehead, Fernbird, Falcon and the North Island bat can be seen and rare flora and fauna such as Spiranthes sinensis orchids.

Significant Moa bone finds and endangered/extinct bird species have also been found in various caves on the farm.

Biddy grew up on the farm and the Stubbs family have lived on the farm for five generations. Harriet and Hugh Stubbs moved from Timaru, in the South Island in the early 1900’s. The old homestead still stands today and is used by the Auckland Speleological (caving) society as an accommodation for cavers and climbers.

Why they chose this property

Previous guests love the uniqueness,stunning views and remoteness of Rock Retreat and are experiencing what we think to be some of New Zealand's most stunning landscape.They also love the fact that we have handbuilt the cottage ourselves out of recycled native New Zealand timbers and created a space that is functional and the perfect little get away.

Languages:

English

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