Discover our luxury eco accommodation in Te Anau, thoughtfully designed for couples seeking privacy, comfort and unforgettable Fiordland experiences.
Set on a peaceful hillside overlooking Te Anau and Fiordland National Park, Fiordland Eco-Retreat offers two boutique accommodation experiences – the Eco-Villa and Guest Suite – each featuring each featuring thoughtfully designed interiors, sustainable design principles, private hot tubs and spectacular lake and mountain views.
Independently rated by Qualmark as a 5-Star Holiday Home and recognised with Qualmark Gold for Sustainable Tourism, Fiordland Eco-Retreat combines exceptional comfort with a genuine commitment to responsible travel. Whether you’re exploring Milford Sound, hiking New Zealand’s Great Walks or simply taking time to unwind, you’ll return each evening to your own peaceful retreat beneath some of New Zealand’s darkest skies.
Guests can also enjoy exclusive on-site stargazing experiences with our sister company, Fiordland Stargazing. Led by co-owner Glen, a New Zealand Dark Sky Ambassador, these experiences offer a unique opportunity to discover Fiordland’s night skies from the comfort of your own retreat.
“This is a rare find. We have stayed here multiple times now and loved it each time. A really unique location with amazing views over Te Anau and a beautiful and very well designed place to stay. Hot tub time at night looking at the Milky Way is pretty hard to beat. Hosts have been amazing each time – can’t recommend highly enough”
Myles, 2023 | Google review
Choose Your Retreat
Both accommodation options offer spectacular lake and mountain views, private outdoor spaces and the peace, privacy and connection with nature that define a stay at Fiordland Eco-Retreat.
Boutique Eco-Villa
A private adults-focused one-bedroom retreat, designed for couples seeking complete privacy. Features a full kitchen, private deck, cedar hot tub and access to a shared wood-fired sauna.
Guest Suite
A spacious, self-contained retreat offering panoramic views, a kitchenette and the warmth of genuine Kiwi hospitality. Enjoy a peaceful hillside setting close to Te Anau, with thoughtful touches and local knowledge from your hosts to help make your stay memorable.
Why Stay at Fiordland Eco-Retreat?
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, planning a romantic escape or simply looking to reconnect with nature, Fiordland Eco-Retreat is designed to become one of the most memorable experiences of your Fiordland adventure.
From the moment you arrive, you’ll discover why so many guests describe their stay as a highlight of their South Island travels. Thoughtfully designed as a peaceful boutique retreat, Fiordland Eco-Retreat invites you to slow down, reconnect with nature and experience the very best of Fiordland.
“A beautifully designed home with magnificent views. A highlight of our three week trip around the South Island.”
Mandy, 2023 | Google review
Designed to help you slow down
We believe the best holidays leave you feeling refreshed, not exhausted. Every detail has been considered to create a calm, restorative space – from warm timber finishes and natural materials to comfortable furnishings and uncluttered interiors that invite you to relax.
It’s a place to slow down and reconnect – with nature and with each other. Wake to birdsong rather than traffic, spend your days discovering Fiordland’s extraordinary landscapes, then return to your own peaceful retreat to soak in the hot tub, enjoy a relaxed evening meal and watch the stars emerge beneath some of New Zealand’s darkest skies.
Private hot tubs with mountain views
Each accommodation features a private hot tub, warmed and ready for you to enjoy whenever the mood takes you. After a day exploring Milford Sound, hiking one of Fiordland’s Great Walks or discovering the beauty of the national park, there’s nothing quite like soaking beneath the stars, while taking in the tranquil rural surroundings.
Exceptional stargazing
With very little light pollution, clear nights reveal spectacular views of the southern night sky, revealing the Milky Way, thousands of stars, familiar (and unfamiliar) constellations and, occasionally, the Aurora Australis. It’s an unforgettable experience whether you’re relaxing outdoors, simply stepping outside before bed, or joining one of our exclusive on-site stargazing experiences.
Ideally located for exploring Fiordland
Enjoy the tranquillity of the countryside while being just minutes away from Te Anau’s restaurants, cafés, supermarkets and tour departures – making it easy to experience Milford Sound, Fiordland National Park and local attractions without sacrificing peace and privacy.
Thoughtful sustainability
Sustainability is woven into everything we do – from renewable energy and rainwater collection to environmentally conscious design choices and native tree restoration.
Friendly hosts
Created by long-time Fiordland locals Glen and Susanna, Fiordland Eco-Retreat combines sustainable design, conservation expertise and genuine Kiwi hospitality.
With Glen’s background protecting New Zealand’s rare native species through his work with the Department of Conservation, and Susanna’s experience in sustainability and business, every detail has been designed to help guests experience Fiordland in a meaningful way.
We’re always happy to share local knowledge, recommend favourite walks and help you make the most of your stay.
Recognised for 5-star quality and sustainability
Independently assessed by Qualmark and awarded a 5-Star Holiday Home rating, Fiordland Eco-Retreat reflects the highest standards of comfort, design and guest experience, while maintaining a genuine commitment to responsible tourism.
Our Qualmark Gold Sustainable Tourism recognition reflects the care we take to minimise our environmental impact, from renewable energy and water conservation to sustainable design choices and ongoing environmental initiatives.
Boutique Eco-Villa
Available to book soon, for stays from 1 January 2027.
Images below are artistic impressions.
Our 1-bedroom Eco-Villa is a private 60m² (645 sq ft) self-catering retreat in Te Anau, designed for couples seeking sustainable luxury, complete privacy and a deeper connection with Fiordland’s extraordinary landscape.
Set within its own secluded area of the property, away from our family home and Guest Suite, the Eco-Villa offers a peaceful escape where thoughtful design, comfort and nature come together. Purpose-built using Passivhaus principles and thoughtful sustainable design, this boutique accommodation experience combines modern comfort with a strong connection to the surrounding landscape – equally suited to romantic getaways, relaxing weekends and longer stays.
Floor-to-ceiling windows invite the outdoors in, while the private deck provides the perfect place to enjoy your morning coffee, an evening barbecue or a soak beneath Fiordland’s spectacular night skies.
Relax in your private cedar hot tub and enjoy access to the shared wood-fired sauna located beside the Eco-Villa from late 2026. Whether you are exploring Milford Sound, experiencing Fiordland’s world-class dark skies, or simply enjoying the tranquillity of your surroundings, the Eco-Villa offers a truly private and memorable Fiordland escape.
Inside, you’ll find a fully equipped kitchen, comfortable living area and a carefully considered interior designed to feel sleek, welcoming and uncluttered – allowing the surrounding scenery to take centre stage.
Highlights:
- Private hot tub
- Fully-equipped kitchen
- Private deck
- King bed
- Mountain views
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
- Free parking
- Adults-focused
- Shared wood-fired sauna (opening December 2026)
Inspired by Fiordland’s Rare Native Species
Named after one of New Zealand’s iconic flightless native birds – the kākāpō – our first boutique Eco-Villa is themed around the natural colours of its namesake.
Co-owner Glen has dedicated his career to working with the Department of Conservation protecting some of New Zealand’s rarest native taonga (precious) species, notably the kākāpō and the takahē. As such, both of these species are deeply important to us. We intend to open a second ‘takahē’ Eco-Villa in the future… watch this space!
Any imagery shared prior to the Eco-Villa’s completion in December 2026 will be an artist’s rendered impression, and details are subject to change.
Ready to experience the Eco-Villa? Check availability and book directly for the best rates.
Dates with red a ‘SOLD’ flag are unavailable.
Guest Suite
Spacious, welcoming and full of natural light, our Guest Suite offers a comfortable and relaxing space for guests wanting to experience Fiordland from a peaceful hillside setting. It’s an ideal choice for those wanting a peaceful retreat after days spent exploring the region’s mountains, fjords and world-famous scenery.
The Guest Suite is attached to our family home but has its own private entrance and no shared internal spaces. While the suite is exceptionally well insulated, as with any attached accommodation there is potential to occasionally hear minor household noise.
The private suite is fully self-contained, and combines the comfort of home with thoughtful touches that help make your stay memorable – from your own private hot tub to beautiful rural views and a quiet setting, just minutes from Te Anau.
Please note that there is only one Guest Suite on the property, available in two configurations depending upon your travel dates:
1-Bedroom Guest Suite (maximum 2 guests) available from 1 January 2027.
3-Bedroom Guest Suite (maximum 5 guests) available until 31 December 2026.
Please scroll through the photos below, showing the 1-bedroom Guest Suite.
Highlights:
- Private hot tub
- Functional kitchenette
- Private decking & large, flat front-lawn
- Super-king bed
- Stunning 260° panoramic lake and mountain views
- Modern, stylish and clean
- Central heating keeps you warm, even in the depths of winter
- Free, unlimited Wi-Fi
- Freeview TV (NZ’s standard channels), Netflix and Youtube
- Large, private BBQ and outside dining area
- Comfortable beds with quality linen
- Bedroom has black-out curtains / blind
- Free parking
- Up to 2 guests (plus any infants <2 years old)
- Operating since 2018, with exceptional reviews
- Warm hospitality
Rates & Availability: 1-Bedroom Guest Suite (available for stays from 1 January 2027)
Wanting to book the 3-bedroom Guest Suite instead?
Please scroll through the photos below to see the two additional bedrooms and separate toilet available in the 3-bedroom Guest Suite configuration (Available only until 31 December 2026).
The 3-bedroom configuration has all of the amenities highlighted above, plus:
- Approx. 110m2 / 1200 sq ft total of internal space.
- 3-bedrooms, kitchenette, 1.5 bathrooms, cosy lounge.
- Up to 5 guests (plus any infants <2 years old).
- All bedrooms have black-out blinds / curtains
Rates & Availability: 3-Bedroom Guest Suite (available until 31 December 2026)
Included in Every Stay
Private, self-contained accommodation with:
- Thoughtful sustainable touches
- Luxury bathroom amenities
- Premium bedding and towels
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
- Tea, coffee and pantry essentials
- Self-catering facilities
- Free on-site parking
Which Accommodation is Right for You?
| Feature | Eco-Villa | Guest Suite |
|---|---|---|
| Ideal for | Couples seeking privacy, sustainable luxury and a romantic Fiordland escape | Couples wanting more of a ‘hosted’ style of Kiwi hospitality (although still very private), extra outdoor space and a comfortable home-away-from-home |
| Guests | 2 | Up to 5 (during 2026), then 2 form 2027 onwards |
| Space | 60m² detached private villa | 110m² suite (in current 3-bedroom layout). 50m² from 2027 onwards in 1-bedroom layout. |
| Self-catering facilities | Full kitchen | Kitchenette |
| Bed size | King | Super King (plus two additional beds when in 3-bedroom layout) |
| Outdoor space | Private deck | Private deck and large flat lawn |
| Wellness | Private cedar hot tub. Shared wood-fired sauna (adults only) from December 2026. | Private cedar hot tub. Outdoor shower. Adult-only sauna by appointment only. Extra charges may apply. |
| Indoor bath | – | ✓ |
| Laundry | ✓ | On request |
| Family-friendly | – | Until the end of 2026 |
Both options are perfect for:
- Romantic escapes, honeymoons and special occasions
- Nature lovers and outdoor adventurers
- Stargazers and astro-photographers
- Landscape and wildlife photographers
- Wellness escapes, rest and relaxation
- Travellers seeking boutique, sustainable luxury
- Guests looking to slow down, recharge and reconnect with nature
Still deciding? We’d love to help you choose the accommodation that’s the best fit for your stay. Please get in touch if you have any questions.
Sustainability
Caring for the environment isn’t an add-on at Fiordland Eco-Retreat – it’s part of how we’ve designed the retreat, and how we operate it day-to-day.
From renewable energy and rainwater collection to thoughtful building design and native planting, we’ve made choices that reduce our environmental impact while creating a comfortable, high-quality guest experience.
Our aim is simple: to provide accommodation that allows guests to experience the beauty of Fiordland while helping to protect it for future generations.
We’re proud to support initiatives including the Tourism Carbon Challenge, the NZ Sustainable Tourism Initiative and the Tiaki Promise, alongside our Qualmark Gold Sustainable Tourism award.
Explore the Best of Fiordland
Fiordland Eco-Retreat is perfectly positioned for exploring one of New Zealand’s most spectacular regions. From the iconic beauty of Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound to world-renowned Great Walks, scenic flights, kayaking and unforgettable stargazing, there’s no shortage of incredible experiences waiting nearby.
Looking for inspiration? We’ve put together our favourite local activities, attractions and experiences to help you plan your stay.
Frequently Asked Questions
Have a question? You may find the answer below. If not, we’d love to hear from you.
Staying at the Eco-Retreat
Is Fiordland Eco-Retreat adults-only?
Our Eco-Villa is intended for adults only (18 years+). This is due to health and safety requirements surrounding the wood-fired sauna (opening late 2026), our selection of luxury interior fittings, limited bedroom space, and our vision that this be a tranquil area for guests.
Our Guest Suite currently welcomes families including children, but from January 2027, only one bedroom will be available, with no extra roll-out / sofa bed option. Infants in port-a-cots are welcome to stay in the Guest Suite at no extra charge – a travel cot and highchair can be provided free of charge with advanced notice.
What makes Fiordland Eco-Retreat unique?
At Fiordland Eco-Retreat, luxury, nature and sustainability come together to create a truly memorable stay. Enjoy the space to breathe, the privacy to truly unwind, and the freedom to experience Fiordland on your own terms. Our boutique, self-contained accommodation combines thoughtful design, exceptional comfort and a peaceful rural setting just minutes from Te Anau.
Every stay includes your own private hot tub, spectacular mountain views and exceptional dark skies, creating the perfect place to relax after a day exploring Fiordland.
We’re also proud to be the only luxury accommodation in the Te Anau region to offer wellness facilities (private hot tubs and a wood-fired sauna) alongside exclusive on-site stargazing experiences, helping you to create unforgettable memories during your time in Fiordland.
As a family-owned retreat, we’re always happy to share local knowledge and personalised recommendations to help you make the most of your stay.
Is Fiordland Eco-Retreat suitable for a honeymoon?
Yes. Fiordland Eco-Retreat has been thoughtfully designed for couples seeking a peaceful, romantic escape. From soaking in your private hot tub beneath the stars to waking to birdsong and enjoying the beauty of Fiordland together, it’s the perfect place to celebrate a honeymoon, anniversary or other special occasion.
As a Qualmark 5-Star boutique retreat, we combine luxury, privacy and thoughtful design to create a memorable stay in one of New Zealand’s most spectacular destinations.
Many couples choose Fiordland Eco-Retreat as part of a wider South Island honeymoon itinerary, enjoying a few days to relax between adventures.
What type of traveller is Fiordland Eco-Retreat best suited to?
Fiordland Eco-Retreat is ideal for couples seeking a peaceful escape, whether you’re celebrating a honeymoon, anniversary, birthday or simply looking to reconnect with nature. It’s also perfect for travellers who value thoughtful design, generous space, sustainability, privacy and easy access to Fiordland’s world-famous attractions.
How many nights should we stay?
We recommend staying at least two to three nights to experience the best of Fiordland. This gives you time to visit Milford Sound or Doubtful Sound, enjoy one of the region’s renowned walking tracks, relax in your private hot tub and experience Fiordland’s spectacular night skies without feeling rushed.
Many of our guests tell us they wish they’d allowed more time to simply relax at our Fiordland retreat. After all, your accommodation should be more than just a place to sleep – it’s part of the experience.
When can we check in?
Check-in and check-out information, along with our policies, can be found on our Booking Information page.
What makes Fiordland Eco-Retreat a luxury experience?
Luxury is about exceptional comfort, thoughtful design and attention to detail. At Fiordland Eco-Retreat, you’ll enjoy beautifully appointed, self-contained accommodation, premium cotton bed linen, your own private hot tub, spectacular mountain views and the peace and privacy to truly unwind after a day exploring Fiordland.
Independently assessed and awarded Qualmark Gold 5-Star status, Fiordland Eco-Retreat combines nationally recognised quality with the warmth and personal touches of a boutique, owner-operated retreat.
What type of accommodation is Fiordland Eco-Retreat?
Fiordland Eco-Retreat offers boutique eco-luxury accommodation with the privacy and independence of your own self-contained retreat.
Each accommodation has its own private entrance, outdoor living area and hot tub, allowing you to relax in complete privacy and experience Fiordland at your own pace. Prepare meals in your own kitchen or kitchenette, or enjoy the excellent cafés and restaurants just seven minutes away in Te Anau.
Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for a peaceful base from which to explore Milford Sound, Doubtful Sound and Fiordland National Park, Fiordland Eco-Retreat offers the comfort, flexibility and personal space to make the most of your stay.
How far is Fiordland Eco-Retreat from Te Anau?
It takes just 7 minutes to drive into Te Anau township, making it easy to enjoy the town’s restaurants, cafés, supermarkets and tour departures while returning each evening to the peace and privacy of the countryside.
How far is Fiordland Eco-Retreat from Milford Sound?
Fiordland Eco-Retreat provides an ideal base for visiting Milford Sound, whether you’re driving yourself or joining a guided day tour (tours can be met in Te Anau township).
Why stay in Te Anau instead of Queenstown?
Te Anau is the closest main accommodation base for visiting Milford Sound, reducing the return drive by around four hours compared with Queenstown. Staying here gives you more time to enjoy Fiordland and less time in the car, while offering a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere after a day exploring.
Does the accommodation have laundry facilities?
The Eco-Villa has its own washing machine and tumble dryer in the villa itself. Eco-laundry detergent is supplied. A clothes rack is available for those who wish to air-dry their clothes.
The Guest Suite does not have its own laundry facilities, but if you are happy to walk outside and into our garage, you are welcome to use our shared washing machine and tumble dryer (subject to availability). A clothes drying rack is housed in your hallway closet. Eco-laundry detergent is complementary. Please note that this separate laundry space is also used by our family, and you may encounter our friendly dog, Cooper in this area. Please let us know if our dog is of concern, and we’ll ensure that he is contained elsewhere whenever you wish to use our laundry facilities.
I’m travelling with an infant – can you provide a portacot / high chair?
Infants are welcome in our Guest Suite, but unfortunately the Eco-Villa is not suitable for infants.
We have one portacot (travel cot) and one high chair in our Guest Suite that we can set up for you, free of charge – please just let us know in advance of your stay. We follow the New Zealand safe sleep recommendations, and provide a fitted sheet over the portacot’s base, but no blankets or pillows. We have a variety of sleep sacks available, should they be needed.
Is this an ‘entire house’?
Fiordland Eco-Retreat consists of two self-contained accommodation spaces:
The Eco-Villa is a detached 60m² villa.
The Guest Suite is attached to our family home, but it has its own access and no shared internal spaces. There is potential to hear a minor amount of noise transfer, while we go about our day-to-day activities. Please note that although we have two young children, we do always try to be respectful of guests’ peace and quiet.
Does the lounge have an amazing view?
The Eco-Villa’s lounge looks out over the spectacular lake / mountain view.
The Guest Suite’s lounge is a compact space, with a small window to the southern side of the house. This room does not offer mountain / lake views.
Does every accommodation have a private hot tub?
Yes. Every accommodation includes its own private electric hot tub for your exclusive use throughout your stay.
Will the hot tub be hot when we arrive?
Yes! The hot tub is always kept hot for our guests’ sole use, so you can use it at whatever time of day or night you desire.
Is there a sauna?
Yes. We have a shared barrel wood-fired sauna located directly beside the Eco-Villa. It will be available from December 2026.
To provide the best guest experience, sauna access is primarily reserved for Eco-Villa guests.
If you’re staying in the Guest Suite and are interested in using the sauna, please feel free to ask us, as access may occasionally be available when it’s not in use. Charges may apply.
What sort of coffee machine do you provide?
We have a ‘bean-to-cup’ coffee machine, allowing you to make delicious fresh coffee at the push of a button. It also creates frothed hot milk, if required. The coffee beans used are organic, fair trade and locally roasted.
Guest numbers / Comfort
How many guests can stay in each of your accommodation options?
The Eco-Villa allows up to two adults in one bedroom.
The Guest Suite allows up to 5 guests in 3 bedrooms until the end of 2026.
From 1 January 2027 onwards, a maximum of two guests will be able to stay in the Guest Suite (infants aged under 2 years old can stay for free, and are excluded from the guest count).
Can we have the trundle bed set up?
Yes. This amenity is offered free of charge in the Guest Suite only, until the end of December 2026, and will set up in the Guest Suite’s single bedroom. Please ensure that this is requested at least 24 hours prior to your arrival. The trundle bed is really intended for use by children (the mattress quality is not of the exceptional standard of the three permanent beds).
After 1 January 2027, the single bedroom will no longer form part of the Guest Suite (due to re-configuration), and this trundle bed amenity will no longer be available.
Our accommodations’ sofas are not sofa-beds.
The Eco-Villa does not have a trundle bed option.
Can the trundle bed be moved into a different bedroom / room?
Unfortunately not. Due to manoeuvring limitations, it can only be used in the Guest Suite’s single bedroom.
There’s just two of us and we’ll just use one bedroom – can we please have a discount?
To keep the accommodation as affordable as possible for those travelling by themselves / as a couple, the Guest Suite’s pricing is tiered depending upon how many people are staying. If you input the correct number of guests during the booking process, the correct price will be displayed; the rate for 1-2 guests will be lower than that for 3+ guests.
Food Information
Can we cook our own food?
Yes. Both accommodation options are self-catering – include facilities for preparing meals – making it easy to enjoy breakfast before exploring or a relaxed dinner after a day in Fiordland.
Food hampers are available by advanced purchase.
How close are you to the nearest supermarket?
Fresh Choice is a good-sized supermarket, a 7 minute drive away from the Eco-Retreat. It opens at 7pm daily, and closes at 8pm in winter and 9pm in summer.
There’s also a smaller convenience store, Four Square, located along the main high street.
Are there many restaurants in Te Anau?
There are a large variety of restaurants on offer – we highly recommend The Fat Duck (gastropub), The Redcliff (fine dining) and Nonna Resi (Italian) restaurants, although there are many other great options in Te Anau. It’s a good idea to make reservations in advance of your arrival, especially during our high season (November – April).
We’re arriving late and won’t be able to get to a supermarket before it closes – what options do we have please?
There are many restaurants in Te Anau, but they do generally close up earlier than you may be used to in big cities.
There is a ‘New World’ supermarket close to Queenstown airport, in the Remarkables Shopping area, which you may like to visit prior to leaving Queenstown. It’s also worth noting that there are not any dinner stops on the drive between Queenstown and Te Anau.
For your convenience, we can provide various local food hampers, to be in the accommodation, ready for your arrival. If you have any specific requests, please let us know as we can usually factor these in to the hamper’s contents.
Do you provide breakfast?
While we don’t advertise breakfast as an amenity, we do usually offer a small selection of cereals for our guests, in addition to the coffee / tea provided. A bottle of fresh milk is also supplied.
Miscellaneous
Is parking available?
Yes, free on-site parking is provided for all guests.
Is there EV charging available on-site?
We plan to install electric vehicle (EV) charging facilities alongside our Eco-Villas as part of the ongoing development of Fiordland Eco-Retreat. While EV charging is not yet available, we’re excited to offer this amenity in the future as we continue to enhance the guest experience and support more sustainable travel.
Is there public transport / a taxi service in Te Anau?
Unfortunately there are no taxis / Ubers or public buses operating between Fiordland Eco-Retreat and Te Anau. We recommend that all guests have their own method of transport.
Can we please have an early check-in?
It takes a long time to clean to our exceptionally high standards between guests, and we will not know how much cleaning is required on your arrival day until the previous guests have checked out. We are usually therefore unable to confirm an early check-in in advance.
Should the cleaning be completed earlier then our usual check-in time, we will usually send a courtesy message informing guests that the space is ready for early check-in.
I see that you have a dog. I am afraid of / am allergic to dogs – will this be a problem?
Not at all! We always try to keep Cooper, our elderly Border Collie, contained in his rear yard until we have ascertained how guests feel about dogs. If you do not like dogs, it would be greatly appreciated if you could please let us know in advance, although this is not essential!
Cooper is never permitted within the Eco-Retreat itself, but does frequent the garage, where our Guest Suite’s guests may choose to access our laundry facilities.
Please let us know if you do not wish to see him, and we will keep him contained elsewhere, should you wish to use the laundry facilities (housed in our garage).
Our neighbour also has a very friendly dog who does come to visit the Eco-Retreat guests. With advanced notice, I can request that she be contained on their premises during your stay.
Can I see the stars from Fiordland Eco-Retreat?
Yes. On clear nights, guests can enjoy exceptional views of the southern night sky directly from the retreat, including from the private hot tubs. With minimal surrounding light pollution, the Milky Way is often visible, making Fiordland Eco-Retreat a wonderful place to experience New Zealand’s spectacular night skies.
Can I see the the Aurora Australis from Fiordland Eco-Retreat?
Yes – if the conditions are right. Fiordland is one of New Zealand’s best regions for viewing the Aurora Australis (Southern Lights) thanks to its southern latitude and naturally dark skies. While sightings can never be guaranteed, guests occasionally witness spectacular displays during periods of increased solar activity, particularly on clear, dark nights.
Even when the aurora isn’t visible, you’ll still be treated to breathtaking views of the southern night sky, with the Milky Way and countless stars visible from the Eco-Retreat on clear nights.
How sustainable is Fiordland Eco-Retreat?
Sustainability is at the heart of Fiordland Eco-Retreat and has influenced everything from the way we’ve designed and built our accommodation to how we operate day to day.
Our Eco-Villa has been designed as a highly energy-efficient home, based on Passivhaus standards (without formal certification), to provide exceptional comfort throughout the year while minimising energy use. We also generate renewable electricity through our solar power system with battery storage, harvest rainwater, and continue to make thoughtful choices that reduce our environmental impact while providing a high-quality guest experience.
Our goal is simple: to help protect the extraordinary environment that makes Fiordland so special, while giving our guests the opportunity to experience it in comfort.
I hear that New Zealand has sandflies. What are these, and will we find them at the accommodation?
Yes, New Zealand has sandflies, but you shouldn’t find them at Fiordland Eco-Retreat. You will, however, find them in both Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound (on land, not while you’re on the water) so do be prepared for this. They’re tiny little black flies, and yes they do bite! Thankfully, their bites do not carry disease.
To prevent sandfly bites, you can definitely opt for insect repellant (some swear by DEET or picaridin-containing formulas), or you could do what I do and just wear long sleeves / trousers and socks. I’ve also heard that they prefer the heat generated by black clothing… although this could be a myth!
Disclaimer: I do usually still get bitten on any skin that’s not covered, but they have always absolutley love me! I’ve found that if you ignore the bite (mind over matter) and don’t scrach it, it goes away pretty quickly. But if you scratch that itch, it could be with you for a good 7 days! Best to try and avioid getting bitten, I’d say…
Is your Eco-Villa Passivhaus certified?
No. Our Eco-Villa has been designed to Passive House standards, but it has not been formally certified. Passive House certification is a rigorous independent process that can add significant cost, and we chose to invest that money into the building itself rather than certification.
The result is an exceptionally comfortable and energy-efficient place to stay. High levels of insulation, quality construction, carefully considered solar orientation and external shading help keep the villa warm in winter and cool in summer, while a balanced heat recovery ventilation (HRV) system continuously supplies fresh, filtered Fiordland air and helps maintain excellent indoor air quality throughout the year.
Whether you’re visiting in the height of summer or the middle of winter, you can enjoy a comfortable indoor environment while knowing that your accommodation has been thoughtfully designed to minimise energy use and environmental impact.
Is Wi-Fi available?
Yes, complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi is included with every stay.
Do you work with Inbound Tour Operators / Travel Agents?
Yes we absolutely do. We choose these carefully, but would be happy to hear from any potential trade partners.
Before You Book
To help you plan your stay, we’ve brought together everything you need to know before you arrive, including:
- Check-in and check-out times
- Cancellation policy
- Payment information
- Accessibility
- Parking and EV charging
- House guidelines
- Frequently asked practical questions
Loved by Guests
We’re incredibly grateful for the wonderful guests who choose to stay with us, and we’re proud of the consistently exceptional feedback that we’ve received over the years.
“We mainly came to New Zealand to explore the country, but staying in this home turned into a highlight of our trip. The main bedrooms have large glass doors that open to incredible views in all directions and other design touches that will make you never want to leave. The space has beautiful high quality finishes and the best shower and bath any of us have ever used. A great launching point for seeing Milford Sound, but make sure you leave enough time to enjoy the home as well!”
Alex, USA – March 2019
“From the moment you arrive, you will find stunning views in every direction capturing the mountains, lake, and hillsides. Inside you will be welcomed by a space that feels more like a luxury hotel than a home. It is beautifully designed with stylish finishes, textiles, and colors that will make you wish you booked a longer stay because it is so lovely. The outdoor hot tub is definitely a highlight and an amazing place to enjoy the stars. If you are still reading this review – Stop! And book now! You won’t regret it.”
James, USA – September 2019
“If you ever get the chance, stay here. The home is modern and has all the luxury of a 5 star hotel AND the nature immersion to feel like you are so far away. Susanna was a wonderful host, very welcoming and warm. The hot tub gives views of mountains all afternoon and stars into the night. This place doesn’t even feel like real life :)”
Hazel, August 2023
“I wish I could give it 6 stars. Our stay was absolutely perfect. Everything was immaculate and easy to find. The information booklet was extremely extensive and took out any guesswork. Amazing view, comfy bed, wonderful hosts. Couldn’t ask for anything more”
Shannon, May 2025 | Airbnb review
Airbnb: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.98/5 (287 reviews)
Booking.com: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 10.0/10 (51 reviews)
Google: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5.0/5 (16 reviews)
VRBO: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 10.0/10 (14 reviews)
Tripadvisor: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5.0/5 (1 review, new account)
Expedia: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5.0/5 (1 review, new account)
Why Book Direct?
Booking directly with Fiordland Eco-Retreat means that you’ll always receive:
- Flexible cancellation: change plans up to 14 days before arrival
- Small upfront payment (20%) secures your dates: easy, stress-free booking; remainder payable two weeks before arrival
- Instant confirmation: your stay is guaranteed the moment you book
- Direct communication with your hosts
- Personal recommendations before your stay
- No hidden costs: we cover credit card surcharges on your behalf
- Secure payment processing: your details are protected every step of the way
Your Fiordland Escape Awaits
Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for somewhere peaceful to recharge, we’d love to welcome you to Fiordland Eco-Retreat.
Book directly through our website for instant confirmation and the best available rates.
