A few months ago our award-winning New Zealand experts at MajorDomo tipped us off about a phenomenal new retreat they would be launching towards the end of the year. We were eagerly anticipating its arrival and now we’re thrilled to introduce the Mahu Whenua Ridgeline Homestead & Eco Sanctuary, an expansive and incredibly beautiful eco luxury homestead with a mission. Preview this one of a kind retreat with us below.
Located near Wanaka in the spectacular Southern Lakes area of the South Island, Mahu Whenua extends over 550 square km (200 square miles) over stunning high country owned by globally-recognised record producer Robert ‘Mutt’ Lange.
Since acquiring the property, Lange’s vision has been to regenerate the land especially through sustainable farming practices and native bird breeding programme. Incited by this program’s success, he has officially protected more than 90% of the land, making it the largest conservation undertaking on private land in the country’s history. In fact, Mahu Whenua aptly translates to “Healing the Land”.
“While small areas of the land are currently open to walkers, runners or bikers on high ridge trails, there are tens of thousands of hectares that are 100% private to guests, making this a truly exclusive and unique experience,” explains Lisa Hayden, co-founder and co-director of MajorDomo. “It’s hugely exciting news for the luxury tourism industry especially as the demand for this type of experience is very high for our client base.”
The homestead is set amidst glacial valleys, mountains, alpine lakes, forest and meandering rivers, yet is only a fifteen-minute drive out of Wanaka township. It offers rustic yet stylish accommodation for up to 12 guests; eight in the main Ridgeline Homestead and four in two separate guest cottages.
In keeping with Lange’s principles, MajorDomo has designed specific experiences to coincide with his long term vision for like-minded guests who would appreciate his environmental initiatives.
“Guests could revel in this conservation hideaway for the duration of their stay and never see another soul on the property, apart from those who are there to ensure they get the most out of their experience,” adds Fiona Stevens, MajorDomo’s other brainchild.
All stays are bespoke and fully hosted with guided experiences including horse trekking, overnight stays at shepherds’ cottages around the station, heli-skiing, mountain biking, 4wd adventures, farm tours, picnics, backcountry touring and yoga. Guests are also encouraged to observe or engage in conservation practices such as replanting areas with native trees, and learn about a native bird and plant regeneration programme.
Guests can venture slightly further afield to nearby Milford Sound where they could catch crayfish for their evening meal, prepared by the homestead’s private chef and served with the best local New Zealand wines.
Geared towards families or groups of friends seeking an adventurous “return to the land” retreat or travelers wanting a luxury retreat in ultra exclusivity, it’s also ideal for small corporate or incentive trips. Regardless of what draws visitors here, MajorDomo strongly feels that each guest will take some ‘ownership’ of the environmental work that’s underway at Mahu Whenua, making it an exceptional, mind-shifting experience going far beyond an average holiday.
Tailor your perfect New Zealand retreat with MajorDomo at this link and learn more about the founding of the company in this article.
