Healthy planet, healthy people
In the heart of Tasman, Maruia River Retreat is a haven for well-being and healing, not only for people but for the planet.
Founded by husband and wife Lasse and Cristina Holopainen, the pair have long understood their connection with the land, and they started their foray into eco and wellness tourism with a yoga studio in the Philippines called Urban Ashram, which is one of Manila’s most popular. Later, they ran Easy Adventure, an off-grid, eco-glamping surf and yoga resort in Baler, the birthplace of surfing in the Philippines.
2018 saw the Holopainens make New Zealand their home, and they settled into a 500-acre estate just outside Murchison. This decision was not merely a change of location but a conscious effort to weave nature into their project, to counter how modern life has stripped us of many ways we would once interact with the natural world.
The retreat comprises seven luxe villas, a spa for massages, facials, saunas, and contrast therapy, and even a private airstrip.
By only accommodating 12 guests and five staff, Cristina says this gives them the chance to really experience its natural elements, especially the jewel in the crown of the estate – a 180-hectare private nature reserve on the border of Kahurangi National Park, home to old-growth trees, rare bird species, and native flora and fauna.
It’s this ancient, natural space that Cristina says helps guests understand the connection between people and the earth.
“There are thousands of trees giving you pure oxygen and energy, and all they want from you is carbon dioxide. So it’s really a heightened sensory experience,” she says.
“There is a lot about nature that reflects humanity. The source of our energy comes from nature: the food we eat, the air we breathe, the water we drink. It’s about reciprocity.”
Further enhancing their commitment to the environment is an ambition to be a fully electric resort powered by renewable sources. Their determination to walk the talk is evident in the development of an on-site mini-hydro plant. This electrification also includes e-bikes, e-scooters, and buggies, complemented by the expansion of onsite tracks.
This mindset also extends to the food on offer. “We put a lot of love into it, and it tastes better because everything is from here.”
Granola is handmade in Nelson, pears for juice are picked in Canterbury, and honeycomb and bee pollen are harvested from their hives, while fresh bread is baked every morning.
These strides have been noticed, and Qualmark awarded them the Gold Sustainable Tourism Business Award.
At Maruia, wellness is approached holistically. Different retreats are centred around hearty meals, walks in the natural environment, meditative sessions, wellness workshops, deep sleep experiences, and guided yoga by Cristina or Lasse.
These are designed to mirror everyday life, says Cristina.
“Every day, you walk, you eat, you sleep, you do leisure activities, you pamper yourself, and you work. The only thing missing here is the work. But the real work is actually finding the balance to rest. What we’re trying to do is elevate the everyday experiences in a more mindful manner.”
With the holiday season approaching, Cristina thinks it’s important for people to make the chance to celebrate life.
“There’s something special about imprinting in your body the sense of joy and celebration. And you can only find that when it’s quiet.”