Guided women’s hiking retreat in New Zealand’s Southern Alps - where backcountry spirit meets luxury comfort.
Lake Hawea Retreat
about the retreaT
Set on the edge of Lake Hāwea with wide-open mountain views, this active retreat combines time on the trail with space to rest. Each day includes a guided hike or local adventure - moments to move, breathe, and take in the landscape.
You’ll stay at Lake Hāwea View, spacious luxury accommodation designed for calm and connection - shared meals, laughter, and good company.
This retreat is for women who want movement, nature, and space to reset - no pressure, no pace to keep up with. Bring your friends or come solo - we can’t wait to retreat with you!
The cedar hot tub is a welcome treat at the end of a full day on the trails .
There will be plenty of downtime to enjoy the barrel sauna and take in the mountain views.
An architecturally designed lodge with a spacious lounge frames the mountain and lake beyond.
What’s included?
4 nights’ accommodation at Lake Hāwea View (twin share and single occupancy available)
Guided local day hikes with experienced facilitators
All meals and snacks - locally sourced and lovingly prepared
Yoga, massage and exclusive hot tub & sauna use
Fun local activities and community connection
Transport to/from Queenstown airport (if applicable)
A supportive community of like-hearted women
Support, safety, and care every step of the way
Not included: Flights and personal travel insurance.
WHat to expect
You don’t need to be an athlete or a seasoned hiker - just open to the experience and have a sense of adventure.
Days are a balance of movement and rest: time outdoors, nourishing food, and the freedom to do as much or as little as you choose.
We handle the logistics. You bring curiosity and good walking shoes.
The experience
Guided hike
A full-day guided hike up a local mountain - steady pace, stunning views, and the support of your guides from start to finish. No one is ever left behind.
You’ll move through awe-inspiring Southern Alps terrain and likely surprise yourself with what you’re capable of. And at the end of the day, a lake plunge, spa soak, or sauna session is waiting. A soulful, rewarding day in the mountains.
Via ferrata
A different way up the mountain - Wildwire’s Via Ferrata in Wānaka takes you along the world’s highest cable climb. With two course options, you can choose your own pace:
a 3-hour climb for beginners, or a 5-hour experience for adventurous, active beginners.
A playful, empowering way to move through exciting terrain and take in the views.
Yoga & Massage
After two active days, this 1.5-hour onsite yoga class offers a gentle return to balance. Led by a certified local instructor and suitable for all levels, it’s a calm pause before we shift into deeper rest.
Each woman also receives a 1-hour onsite massage, included in your retreat. A nourishing way to release tired muscles and ease the body after time on the trails.
All you need to bring is you.
Wine Tasting
A trip to New Zealand’s Central Otago region isn’t complete without a visit to one of the region’s celebrated wineries. Enjoy a relaxed tasting with local wines and small bites, then sit back and take in the golden views. Afternoons here have their own kind of magic.
itinerary
Day one
Afternoon pick up from Queenstown (if required). Arrive at Lake Hāwea View, settle in, and meet the group over a relaxed welcome dinner prepared by our private chef.
Day two
We go exploring! Full-day guided hike in the surrounding ranges. Return to warm food, good company, and time to unwind. The sauna and spa pool will be calling your name.
Day three
Fueling your appetite for adventure, today we climb with Wildwire Wanaka! Choose a 3 or 5 hour climbing adventure, suited to your energy and comfort level. End the day with a hot tub soak or massage, and a shared meal to refuel together.
Day four
Morning yoga followed by a change of pace - free time to explore Wanaka township or a short guided hike, you choose! In the afternoon we head to a nearby vineyard for wine tasting or easy e-bike tour, depending on the season or weather. Shared dinner, again with our private chef, to celebrate the journey.
Day five
A farewell morning tea before heading home - refreshed, grounded, and a little wilder at heart. Transport back to Queenstown (if required), we aim to arrive before midday.
Please note: Weather in the Southern Alps can be changeable. Hike locations and daily activities may shift depending on conditions. We have access to a range of trails and experiences to suit all weather - the adventure always continues.
Meet your guides
Hannah Rae
A storyteller, coach, and creative who brings warmth and steadiness to every Wild Heart journey.
Hannah has a background in engineering and coaching, and a love for the outdoors that runs deep.
She leads with curiosity and care - creating space for women to move, reflect, and reconnect with themselves in nature.
Peta Adie
An adventurer and leader with a wild streak, known for her calm presence and quiet humour.
With years of experience exploring New Zealand’s backcountry and guiding women through challenge and change, Peta brings a mix of strength, heart, and practical know-how to every trip.
Join the Retreat
Dates: On Request
Duration: 5 days / 4 nights
Group size: Limited to 12 women
Investment: From $5599 NZD / $4890 AUD*
A 25% deposit secures your place.
Includes all accommodation, local transport, meals & non-alcoholic beverages, guided hikes, local activities, yoga, 60-minute massage, and support (as detailed above).
Flexible payment options available. Minimum group numbers apply for the retreat to run.
*subject to exchange rate
Have questions before booking? We’re happy to help - get in touch at hello@wildheartnewzealand.com
Join the wild-hearted
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