Set within 5.5 acres of established gardens on the edge of Nelson, Pihopa Retreat is a quietly exceptional boutique lodge where history, nature, and contemporary comfort meet. Once part of a 19th-century bishop’s estate, the retreat retains a strong sense of place, with its original chapel—now the setting for breakfast—and heritage grounds creating a rare and atmospheric backdrop.
Accommodation
The Hilliard Suite
The largest and grandest of our Suites, at 90sqm, the Hilliard Suite was named after the Rt Rev William Hilliard, who was the 5th Anglican Bishop of Nelson. This 5-Star Suite is at the furthest corner of the property which provides the best views of Nelson City and down to the sea.
The Hobhouse Suite
The suite is incredibly spacious comprising of three rooms and a balcony covering 75 sqm in total. When you enter the room you feel the elegance, with a luxurious sofa to sink into in front of the roaring fire or open the doors and sit out on the balcony and soak up the surrounds.
The Eaton Suite
The Pihopa Retreat Eaton Suite is named after Derek Lionel Eaton who was the 9th Anglican Bishop of Nelson. Walk into 75 sqm of splendour. The lounge consists of two high-backed elegant chairs to sink into in front of the fire. Make sure you enjoy a complimentary treat or drink from the well equipped kitchenette.
The Sadlier Suite
This stunning suite is named after William Sadlier, who was the 4th Anglican Bishop of Nelson. This Luxury Suite is one of the smaller suites at 55 sqm but is no less opulent. With a fully stocked kitchenette and double sink bathroom with jacuzzi bath, the suite is the perfect place to relax at the end of the day. The benefit of this Luxury Suite is the joining door to the Hilliard Suite, making it perfect for family stays.
The Sutton Suite
Our first suite as you arrive into Pihopa Retreat and overlooking the Chapel of the Holy Evangelists. At just over 55 sqm the suite is well laid out with a large bathroom, wardrobe, kitchenette and open planned living / bedroom area. This suite is suitable for wheelchair access.
The Suter Suite
The Suter Suite offers an open planned living/sleeping area with sumptuous leather couches to sink into and a Superking Bed. With a large bathroom, wardrobe, and well equipped kitchenette and a private balcony area to enjoy fresh air and tranquility at the end of a long day. Write letters or catch up on emails from the office desk or head straight to bed with the fire roaring.
Select suites can interconnect, offering flexibility for couples travelling together or small family groups without compromising privacy.
Dining & Experiences
Stays at Pihopa Retreat include chef‑cooked breakfasts made with fresh local ingredients, as well as evening pre‑dinner drinks and canapés served in the pool house. Guests may relax by the heated swimming pool and spa, explore the gardens, borrow complimentary bikes, or enjoy a complimentary taxi transfer into Nelson for dinner. The setting is peaceful yet connected, just minutes from central Nelson and within easy reach of Abel Tasman, Kahurangi, and Nelson Lakes National Parks. Every detail is designed to ensure a deeply relaxing and memorable luxury retreat.
