Kawau Island, or Te Kawau Tumaro o Toi, is one of the largest islands that make up the Hauraki Gulf in the northern part of New Zealand. This jewel in the crown of the Hauraki Gulf enjoys its own micro-climate, which means the weather is mild even in winter. It’s a popular destination for pleasure craft cruising the Hauraki Gulf (only an hour from Auckland); those looking for a relaxing escape in nature; and bird enthusiasts.
Offering a unique destination for corporate team-building, special events and health retreats, Kawau Lodge Retreat glistens like a jewel against the spectacular blue waters of the Hauraki Gulf.
The stunning location has been designed with flexibility in mind; groups can be as active or relaxed as they like when they hire out the entire property. Corporates come for team-building exercises or groups hold health retreats and special events.
The retreat boasts 8 luxury rooms (7 super king bedrooms) sleeping 16. Downstairs bedrooms feature en-suite bathrooms with underfloor heating.
There is a lodge manager specialising in team-building exercises (Olivia) who lives in nearby School House Bay on Kawau, and Marcus is the lodges very own MacGyver, on-hand to assist with property management.
The property has been completely renovated since 2016 and now includes conference/movie facilities, outdoor lounge spaces, an events area, its own dock, a gym and a cabana bar. There are a huge range of activities available, including row boats, kayaking, fishing and swimming, paddle-boarding and hiking.
The retreat sits on acres of beautiful green space that includes tropical landscaped gardens. Catering can be provided by yourself, or we can fully self-cater from the gourmet kitchen next to a spacious lounge/dining area.
Back in 2016 renowned successful business entrepreneur Leanne Graham was looking for a serene place where she could take some time out from the hustle and bustle of the international tech scene. Upon discovering what she had dreamed of for years – a park bench swing on the waterfront - on the property of the Kawau Lodge Retreat, she decided this was home. Her vision has been to completely renovate the property.
Now Kawau Lodge Retreat exists as a sanctuary and incredible space where businesspeople could can and set aside the daily grind aside and bring their team’s together to open their minds to what’s possible.
While renovating the property Leanne’s own life has been transformed by the tranquil magic that permeates this incredible part of the world. She loves being a part of the Kawau community and the continuous learning that life on the island brings.