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Lewis Pass

Lewis Pass (el. 864 m.) is a mountain pass in the South Island of New Zealand. The northernmost of the three main passes across the Southern Alps, it is higher than the Haast Pass, and slightly lower than Arthur's Pass. State Highway 7 traverses the pass on its route between north Canterbury and the West Coast; it passes through extensive unmodified beech forest. The pass is the saddle between the valleys of the Maruia River to the northwest and the Lewis Riverto the southeast. The saddle is located close to the small spa of Maruia Springs. The Lewis Pass is named after Henry Lewis who, together with Christopher Maling, was the first European to discover the pass, in April 1860 while working as a surveyor of the Nelson Provincial Survey Department. Before this time the pass was used by the Ngāi Tahu Māori of Canterbury to transport Pounamu (greenstone) from the west coast. The area around Lewis Pass is protected as a national reserve. There are a number of walking routes in the Lewis Pass area, including the St James Walkway. The short Alpine Nature Walk loop goes around an alpine wetland and tarn and can be accessed from a carpark near the saddle.

Maruia River Retreat

Maruia River Retreat

Nestled in the tranquil landscapes of New Zealand’s South Island, Maruia River Retreat is a secluded sanctuary that offers an escape into nature’s embrace. Surrounded by lush native bush full of exclusive walks around the property and surrounded by the gentle flow of the Maruia River. The retreat invites guests to unwind, explore, and reconnect with themselves and the world around you.

You can immerse in serene natural beauty with activities like private forest bathing or private yoga sessions. Those seeking deeper relaxation can indulge in the retreat’s wellness offerings, such as massages and access to a riverside Stoked hot tub. For a touch of adventure, guests can explore nearby trails, try fly-fishing, or simply savour quiet moments on the deck, absorbing panoramic views of mountains and forests.

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