Sunlover Retreat
20 Ridge Road, Tairua 3508 New Zealand
Full view
View all photos (242)242
Room & Suite (24)
Dining (12)
About
#1 of 7 B&Bs in Tairua
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Value
Welcome to the Sunlover Retreat. A boutique bed & breakfast, nestled on a hill in the seaside town of Tairua, Coromandel NZ. Sunlover Retreat soaks up the sun and views from sunrise to sunset. There are two accommodation rooms, each with its own ensuite. The Estuary Suite has a bath luxuriously placed to look over the bush, Coromandel Ranges and Tairua estuary beyond. Every room has a large private deck and robes are supplied. During these COVID times and in the interest of guest safety, you will have exclusive use of the Sunlover floor or share with your close friends/family in a double couples bubble. The breakfast is a provisioned continental breakfast that you can help yourself to at your leisure. Don't forget to soak in our hot tub watching the sun set with wine in hand.
Read more
Suggest edits to improve what we show.Improve this listing
Property amenities
Free parking
Free High Speed Internet (WiFi)
Hot bath
Free breakfast
Bicycle rental
Diving
Books, DVDs, music for children
BBQ facilities
Parking
Wifi
Bar / lounge
Breakfast available
Complimentary Instant Coffee
Complimentary tea
Special diet menus
Bowling offsite
Fishing
Patio
Tennis court offsite
Board games / puzzles
Baggage storage
Non-smoking hotel
Shared lounge / TV area
Sun terrace
Private check-in / check-out
Laundry service
Ironing service
Show more
Room features
Allergy-free room
Bathrobes
Private balcony
Safe
Coffee / tea maker
Microwave
Walk-in shower
Complimentary toiletries
Refrigerator
Electric kettle
Hair dryer
Show more
Room types
Ocean view
Non-smoking rooms
Good to know
HOTEL CLASS
HOTEL STYLE
Charming
Languages Spoken
English
Location
64Somewhat walkable
Grade: 64 out of 100
15Restaurantswithin 1 km
2Attractionswithin 1 km
20 Ridge Road, Tairua 3508 New Zealand
Getting there
Car HireSee all Tairua car hire
491Reviews1Q+A87Room tips
ReviewsWe perform checks on reviews.Tripadvisor’s approach to reviewsBefore posting, each Tripadvisor review goes through an automated tracking system, which collects information, answering the following questions: how, what, where and when. If the system detects something that potentially contradicts our community guidelines, the review is not published.
When the system detects a problem, a review may be automatically rejected, sent to the reviewer for validation, or manually reviewed by our team of content specialists, who work 24/7 to maintain the quality of the reviews on our site.
Our team checks each review posted on the site disputed by our community as not meeting our community guidelines.
Learn more about our review moderation.
We perform checks on reviews.
Tripadvisor’s approach to reviews
Before posting, each Tripadvisor review goes through an automated tracking system, which collects information, answering the following questions: how, what, where and when. If the system detects something that potentially contradicts our community guidelines, the review is not published.
When the system detects a problem, a review may be automatically rejected, sent to the reviewer for validation, or manually reviewed by our team of content specialists, who work 24/7 to maintain the quality of the reviews on our site.
Our team checks each review posted on the site disputed by our community as not meeting our community guidelines.
Learn more about our review moderation.
Traveller rating
- 486
- 4
- 1
- 0
- 0
Time of year
Traveller type
Language
More
Selected filters
- Filter
- English
Popular mentions
Sort by:
Most Recent
We had the most wonderful stay at Sunlover Retreat for our elopement. As soon as we arrived we felt like we had stepped into a beautiful paradise. The hospitality from Donna was truly outstanding and the accommodation was absolutely beautiful. The views were stunning. Thank you so much. We would without doubt recommend staying at Sunlover Retreat, a very special place that we will remember forever.
Read more
Date of stay: October 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Value
Location
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
Response from Donna Brooke, Owner at Sunlover Retreat
Responded 2 weeks ago
So lovely to have you here celebrating such a beautiful occasion. It was our pleasure to make your elopement something to treasure forever. Thank you for taking the time to write such a lovely review.
Read more
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
We spent two nights at Sunlover retreat and Donna and Chris were the perfect hosts. The accomodation is excellent and has wonderful views over the Tairua estuary. Breakfast is superb and Donna really excels with the attention to detail and nice personal touches. One of these nice touches is the option to have the in-house chef, Pierre, cook a three course meal. Two days here was not enough. Would definitely come back if we visit NZ again.
Read more
Date of stay: November 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Value
Location
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
Response from Donna Brooke, Owner at Sunlover Retreat
Responded 3 weeks ago
I'm so glad you enjoyed all those special little touches! And of course, your two nights having a meal from our chef Pierre would have been a treat! Thank you so much for taking the time to write such a glowing review.
Read more
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
This is an amazing retreat for those seeking tranquility, privacy, and beautiful views. Donna (the host and owner) was fabulous to work with and very communicative from the original booking through the day before our arrival. She greeted us with a welcoming smile, a glass of water, and a warm washcloth which was a nice treat after a long journey along scenic, Highway 25 on a chilly day. After a quick tour of our place & the amenities, we jumped in the cedar hot tub for a nice soak… a wonderful end to a long day but also a fabulous start to our stay. My husband and I are visiting New Zealand for the first time from our home on Maui and we highly recommend this fantastic retreat in Tairua. Not sure you can do any better!
Read more
Date of stay: September 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Value
Location
Service
Room Tip: Get ready to relax and recharge at this lovely Tairua retreat!
See more room tips
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
Response from Donna Brooke, Owner at Sunlover Retreat
Responded 1 Oct 2023
Enjoy your wonderful trip around NZ. We were lucky to be your first port of call! I'm so happy to read that you enjoyed everything that Sunlover had to offer .... especially that hot tub. All the best on your travels. Thank you so much for taking the time to write such a lovely review!
Read more
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
The rooms and facilities are the best the views are unbelievable, and Donna and Chris such wonderful hosts. We will be back. We would recommend this to anybody, even if you are wanting to chill for a few days on the balcony and enjoy the views.
Read more
Date of stay: August 2023Trip type: Travelled with family
Value
Location
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
Response from Donna Brooke, Owner at Sunlover Retreat
Responded 1 Oct 2023
Thank you so much for your lovely review. Yes, those floor to ceiling windows really do the trick for travellers wanting to make the most of the views. See you next time!
Read more
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Easy booking and communication. Gorgeous room with amazing views - everything felt very luxurious. Tea, coffee, juice, fruit provided. Plus an absolutely delicious breakfast. Hot tub was great - especially as the weather was not the best on our visit. Loved the animals and wildlife. A short walk in to town - had a very enjoyable meal at Manaia Restaurant. Donna is a fabulous host, so friendly and helpful, and has considered everything you could possibly need. Would love to stay again!
Read more
Date of stay: April 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Value
Location
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
Response from Donna Brooke, Owner at Sunlover Retreat
Responded 23 May 2023
Thank yo so much for taking the time to write a beautiful review. I'm glad you enjoyed all the little touches ... that hot tub will be a winner over winter especially!
Read more
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Sunlover Retreat is a beautifully designed and decorated bed & breakfast that provides privacy, convenience and great hill top views. On our first evening, we were provided a chef prepared meal on site which was absolutely delicious. Our breakfast every morning was excellent as we had the opportunity to chat with our hosts, Donna and Chris, who were friendly, interesting and a wealth or information about the area. We highly recommend this first class experience. If we return to this lovely town of Tairua, we will definitely stay here again.
Read more
Date of stay: March 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
Response from Donna Brooke, Owner at Sunlover Retreat
Responded 23 May 2023
We so look forward to welcoming you back to Sunlover and to Tairua. Roger. Thank you for taking the time to write such a lovely review. We enjoyed chatting with you too and look forward to seeing you again one day.
Read more
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
We had a fabulous stay at Sunlovers Retreat, making use of all the facilities including the hot tub and the quirky outside bath, as well as the chef for the night who prepares a lovely meal of your choice but it was the kindness of the hosts, Donna and Chris that really made our stay memorable. Hot towels and iced drinks waiting when we arrived after a long journey was so lovely. Their local knowledge really helped us make the most of our stay, whether it was walking through the bush to a stunning, deserted beach or driving the gravel road 309. A memorable stay in a beautiful part of the world which will stay with us for a long time.
Read more
Date of stay: March 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
Response from Donna Brooke, Owner at Sunlover Retreat
Responded 23 May 2023
Having an in-house chef is certainly proving to be a real highlight of our guest experience. Thank you so much Anne for taking the time to write such a lovely review. We really appreciate it!
Read more
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Deanne and Chris are the pefect hosts in a wonderful lodge in a stunning location providing family atmosphere at breakfast - no effort was spared to help/guide The room was fantastic - the views magnificent - a place to stay at least 3 nights to benefit from the environment,the lodge and teh hosts Henri and Carine March 14-17,2023
Read more
Date of stay: March 2023Trip type: Travelled solo
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
Response from Donna Brooke, Owner at Sunlover Retreat
Responded 31 Mar 2023
So lovely to host you here Henri and Carine. We love to share with guests the famous spots and then our little secret not so famous spots. We want you to make the most of whatever our area has to offer. Thank you so much for taking the time to write such a lovely review.
Read more
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Donna, Chris and (especially) Rover made for an amazing couple of days in the Coromandel. Breathtaking views and wonderful food, supplemented the first class accommodation. The new addition of a bespoke meal with a visiting chef one evening was a wonderful surprise. This place is an absolute “must” for anyone wanting to visit this gorgeous part of the world. Brilliant.
Read more
Date of stay: March 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
Response from Donna Brooke, Owner at Sunlover Retreat
Responded 15 Mar 2023
Rover made the cut! I'll let him know. :) I'm so pleased you took advantage of our in house chef. The fact that he sources everything local makes it all the more special. Thank you so much for taking the time to write such a fab review. We really appreciate it!
Read more
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
+1
We stayed for one night at the Sunlover Retreat and wished we could have stayed forever! The house is stunning in the most perfect location with views over Tairua. Donna and Chris are lovely hosts and Rover the dog gave us the best welcome! They kindly booked us into local restaurant Manaia which was great and only a short walk away. I would highly recommend the lamb shoulder, but the pizzas also looked delicious! The attention to detail is amazing, we loved the bow on the toilet roll, Manuka honey toiletries and the branded robes were so soft! Such nice touches! The hot tub was a lovely treat, with views of the other side of the town. Though the outdoor bubble bath on our balcony was even more of a novelty. My morning soak with a coffee in hand was a real highlight for me! The bed was huge and very comfy and the shower pressure spot on (very important to us)! Everything we needed was there - a full kitchen equipped with coffee machine, coffee and hot chocolate pods; insect repellent candle; dyson fan; hairdryer and (my personal favourite) freshly baked biscuits - which you must try, they were to die for! The town boasts beautiful views, friendly locals and some nice spots for a beer/Pinot noir. We also walked up to the lookout Paku which was a bit of a climb, but totally worth it with an amazing 360 degree view. Overall, we can see why this place is booked up years in advance and we will definitely be returning! Thanks for having us Donna and Chris and see you again soon!…
Read more
Date of stay: March 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
Response from Donna Brooke, Owner at Sunlover Retreat
Responded 15 Mar 2023
Oh Johnny, such a fantastic review that covers just about everything. We really appreciate that you took the time to write it. Bubble baths, hot tub and views really do make the difference. I'll let Manaia know that you enjoyed their meal so much. They are definitely a guest fave and the fact that you can walk there makes it so much better. We'd love to see you both back here when you are next in New Zealand. In the meantime, enjoy your travels ... ka kite ano. xx
Read more
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
PRICE RANGE
US$265 - US$274 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
LOCATION
New ZealandNorth IslandWaikato RegionCoromandel PeninsulaTairua
NUMBER OF ROOMS
2
Is This Your Tripadvisor Listing?
Own or manage this property? Claim your listing for free to respond to reviews, update your profile and much more.
Claim Your ListingSUNLOVER RETREAT - B&B Reviews & Price Comparison (Tairua) - Tripadvisor
Frequently Asked Questions about Sunlover Retreat
Which popular attractions are close to Sunlover Retreat?
Nearby attractions include Heaven & Earth (0.4 km) and The Little Gallery (0.4 km).
What are some of the property amenities at Sunlover Retreat?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include free wifi, free breakfast, and a lounge.
What food & drink options are available at Sunlover Retreat?
Guests can enjoy free breakfast, a lounge, and barbeque facilities during their stay.
What are some restaurants close to Sunlover Retreat?
Conveniently located restaurants include Manaia, The Pepe Cafe, and Out of the Blue Cafe.
Is Sunlover Retreat located near the city centre?
Yes, it is 0.1 km away from the centre of Tairua.
Does Sunlover Retreat have any great views?
Yes, guests often enjoy the harbour view available here.