Forest Estate Retreat Minutes from Te Arai Links Golf

Set within 2.5 hectares of native forest and landscaped grounds overlooking the countryside toward the Mangawhai coast, Slow Stay Lodge is conceived as a quiet retreat where architecture and landscape exist in close balance. The property sits within a secluded pocket of coastal Northland, a short drive from Te Arai Beach and the renowned Te Arai Links golf courses.

The lodge is designed around a sense of openness to its surroundings. Expansive glazing frames views of the forest canopy and rolling hills, while outdoor terraces and garden spaces extend the living areas into the landscape. Throughout the property, the rhythm of trees, coastal breezes, and changing light defines the atmosphere of the home.

The central living spaces form the heart of the lodge. A large open-plan living and dining area gathers around a fireplace, creating a natural place for conversation and relaxation after time spent outdoors. Nearby, a sunroom provides a quiet corner for reading while overlooking the gardens. The kitchen is arranged for shared meals and gatherings, with generous workspace and a walk-in pantry supporting extended stays and group dining.

Outdoor living is a central part of the experience. A heated saltwater pool sits within a spacious deck surrounded by native planting and mature trees. Adjacent to the pool, an outdoor kitchen and cooking pavilion provides a dedicated setting for alfresco meals. The Engel Fire cooking station functions as a wood-fired grill, rotisserie, smoker, and pizza oven, creating a focal point for evenings spent outdoors.

Accommodation is arranged across five guest suites, each designed as an individual retreat within the property. Bedrooms are spacious and quiet, finished with natural materials and soft interior palettes that reflect the surrounding landscape. Several suites open directly onto the pool and terrace area, while others overlook the gardens and forest beyond.

A separate self-contained cottage sits near the main lodge, offering additional privacy with its own kitchen, lounge, and private garden. The cottage’s open-plan design allows guests to maintain independence while remaining connected to the shared spaces of the main residence.

The surrounding region forms part of one of New Zealand’s emerging coastal destinations. Te Arai Links, located a short drive from the property, has quickly gained international attention for its two contemporary links courses set along the Pacific coastline. Nearby beaches stretch for kilometers along undeveloped shoreline, offering opportunities for surfing, walking, and fishing.

Further inland, the Matakana region is known for vineyards, farmers markets, craft breweries, and small coastal villages. Visitors can explore local food producers, scenic drives, and sculpture parks before returning to the quiet landscape of the lodge.

Slow Stay Lodge is suited to members seeking a coastal retreat shaped by nature and space, where forest surroundings, nearby beaches, and access to one of New Zealand’s notable golf destinations define the experience of the stay.