Fernglen Retreat

Near Riversdale Beach, Wellington-Wairarapa

Fernglen is located near Riversdale Beach, just one hour from Masterton in the Wairarapa region and over two hours from Wellington.

Your journey starts with a drive through the scenic coastal farm.

Set deep into the property, on the wild Wairarapa coast, two small cabins face out to the stunning ocean view. The first cabin has been transformed into a comfortable and stylish wee ocean retreat perfect for couples. Eventually, the second cabin will join it - expanding Fernglen Retreat to accommodate larger groups and families. For now, it sits empty.

The renovated two-room cabin contains a pretty bedroom with sea views and a stylish and cosy lounge and kitchen prep area. Outdoor seating provides the perfect place to soak up the warm rays on the deck as the sun rises over the ocean. A separate toilet and shower facility are located outside, just steps away.

Staying here is like retreating to your own little isolated world. Breathe in the invigorating salty air, watch the seabirds soar and dive over the ocean and the technicolour skies as the sun goes down in the evening. At night, be lulled to a deep and restful sleep with the constant, rhythmic roar of the ocean waves.

The minimum stay for a particular day or date can vary depending on factors such as the day of the week, the time of year and the host's preferences.

The easiest way to check what's available is to use the online calendar for this escape—it’ll show you the current options for your dates.

Please note that the minimum stay rules are set by the host and can’t be adjusted, so we’re not able to make exceptions.

If the stay length doesn’t quite match what you’re after, head to Find Your Escape, enter your check-in date and preferred length of stay, and browse other great options that might be a better fit.

To find out if single nights are available at this escape, check the online calendar and see if your preferred date is available to book.

If this escape isn’t available, head to Find Your Escape, enter your check-in date and length of stay, and browse all one-night options available for that day.

Please note that the minimum stay rules are set by the host and can’t be adjusted, so we’re not able to make exceptions.

The kitchen, located undercover on the deck, has a BBQ and a single-ring gas cooker. A kitchen sink and a mini fridge are provided inside. All the pots, pans and utensils you'll need for cooking and eating are provided. You can boil the kettle on the indoor wood burner.

There is an outdoor seating area, a covered bar leaner and a small indoor dining table for eating.

Some pantry basics are supplied - cooking oil, salt, pepper, tea, coffee, sugar, hot chocolate and Fernglen Farm sheep milk.

Feel free to bring your own drinking water if you prefer not to drink the rainwater provided in the kitchen. While your hosts do supply water bottles, it's a good idea to bring your own as well.

Fernglen is fully off-grid with a solar system providing power. There are wall sockets available for charging phones. If it’s sunny, the system will be generating power. If it’s not sunny, you’ll be using power from the bank of batteries. While there should be plenty of electricity for your stay, you will need to conserve to avoid running out. Some small appliances, especially hairdryers and straighteners, have a large power draw so use should be avoided.

The outdoor hot tub is wood-fired; it will be empty on arrival and will take around 45 minutes to fill with water before lighting it. Once lit, you will need to stoke it for at least 2-3 hours while it heats through, dependent on how hot you like it! It takes a little bit of skill with lighting fires and patience.

The good news is that the hot tub does hold the heat well and it will only take a little bit of heating from time to time during the remainder of your stay.

If you would like the hot tub filled and ready to light on arrival please add the $25 service as you go through the booking process.

Fernglen Retreat is open for stays during winter, but bear in mind that you're booking an off-grid escape - without the usual luxuries of a fully powered home. Glamping is still a form of camping!

The cabin has warm bedding and a wood burner, plus lots of other elements to make your stay cosy and atmospheric. The bathroom is 10m from the cabin (so you will need shoes and a raincoat on hand if it's wet). If you book a stay in winter, bring your sense of adventure and brush up on your fire-lighting skills. A pair of gumboots wouldn't go a miss.

For your safety, it is essential to be fully capable of swimming before entering the ocean. Because the beach is a private area, there are no lifeguards, and visitor numbers are limited.

While the electric fences on the property are clearly marked with signs, please exercise caution when near them.

We also kindly request that you stay away from the stream located south of the cabin, which is clearly signposted for your safety.

The minimum stay for a particular day or date can vary depending on factors such as the day of the week, the time of year and the host's preferences.

The easiest way to check what's available is to use the online calendar for this escape—it’ll show you the current options for your dates.

Please note that the minimum stay rules are set by the host and can’t be adjusted, so we’re not able to make exceptions.

To find out if single nights are available at this escape, check the online calendar and see if your preferred date is available to book.

If this escape isn’t available, head to Find Your Escape, enter your check-in date and length of stay, and browse all one-night options available for that day.

Please note that the minimum stay rules are set by the host and can’t be adjusted, so we’re not able to make exceptions.

We've teamed up with Gift Box company 'XO' to bring you a 'special treat' gift box to celebrate those special occasions. The Connection Gift Box features a bottle of Cloudy Bay Pelorus Brut sparkling wine, 'Bubbly Bears' deluxe sweets, a speciality chocolate bar from the House of Chocolate, and pack of 'Deeper Questions' conversation cards - all beautifully presented in a black gift box with tissue paper and an optional handwritten note. Order your Connection Gift Box now, and it will be waiting for you on arrival.

Please note: Gift Boxes are sent 15 days before your arrival date to ensure timely delivery. If you cancel your stay within this time frame, the cost of the Gift Box will not be refunded.

**1.1** Canopy Camping Limited (**Canopy Camping Escapes**, also referred to as **we**, **our** and **us**) has a curated collection of unique nature-based properties throughout New Zealand, independently owned and operated by individual owners of the properties (**Hosts**). **1.2** By making a booking through our website ([here](https://www.canopycamping.co.nz/)) (**Website**), you, as the person making the booking, agree to be bound by these terms and conditions (**Booking Conditions**). **1.3** Canopy Camping Escapes enters into these Booking Conditions as an agent for the Host. That means that you are making an agreement with the Host for the use of its property. Anything Canopy Camping Escapes does (including enforcing any of the Host’s rights), it does so as agent for the Host and is not a party to your agreement with the Host. **1.4** In these terms: - “Day” means a period of 24 hours; and - “check-in time” means the check-in time specified [in the booking confirmation email we send you / specified on the Website for the property you have booked]

**2.1** If you book within 28 Days of your check-in time, full payment via credit or debit card (VISA/Mastercard) is required at the time of booking. If you book more than 28 Days prior to your check-in time, a deposit of 10% is required to confirm your booking and secure the property. This will be charged to your credit or debit card (VISA/Mastercard) at the time of booking. A credit or debit card (VISA/Mastercard) payment surcharge of up to 2.1% will be applied to all credit or debit card (VISA/Mastercard) payments. **2.2** Bookings are considered confirmed once you have made your online booking and payment and we have sent an email to the address provided to us which confirms both the payment and your booking details. If you do not receive a confirmation email, please contact us as soon as possible. However, we (as agent for the Host) reserve the right to cancel any booking within 12 Days of the confirmation email where we discover that you, or any of your guests, has previously breached these Booking Conditions in relation to a previous booking. In that case, you will receive an email advising you that the booking has been declined, and the full amount paid by you at the time of booking will be refunded to the credit or debit card (VISA/Mastercard) you provided during the booking process. **2.3** If you book more than 28 Days prior to your check-in time, the remaining balance of your stay will be due 28 Days prior to your check in time. An email reminder will be sent to you at this time requesting payment for the outstanding balance. The reminder email gives you the option to pay the remaining balance by A2A (Internet Banking) or credit or debit card (VISA/Mastercard). If your payment has not been received within 24 hours, the remaining balance will automatically be charged to the credit or debit card (VISA/Mastercard) used at the time of booking. Please note: a 2.1% credit or debit card (VISA/Mastercard) payment surcharge is applied to all payments made by credit or debit card (VISA/Mastercard). Credit/Debit Card data is held in a secure and encrypted environment. **2.4** If any amount is not paid when due, you will forfeit your deposit and your booking will be cancelled.

**3.1** Your 10% deposit (or 10% of the value of your stay if you have paid in full) is non-refundable, however it can be transferred to another booking made within 12 months of the date of confirmation of your original booking, if you cancel your stay more than 21 Days prior to your check-in time. **3.2** Cancellation or date changes by you that are between 3 and 21 Days prior to your check-in time will result in 50% of the total cost of your stay being charged. Cancellation or date changes made 3 Days (72 hours) or less prior to your check-in time will result in 100% of the total cost of your stay being charged. **3.3** Date changes made more than 21 Days prior to your check-in time are allowed without forfeit of any amounts paid. **3.4** Force Majeure You are entitled to a full refund if you need to cancel for the following reasons: - **Road closure**. If at 1pm on the day before your arrival, a road on your route to your accommodation is designated by [Waka Kotahi](https://www.nzta.govt.nz/) as closed or for essential travel only, and there is no detour, or the detour adds more than two hours to your travel according to the Waka Kotahi Journey Planner. - **Metservice RED Weather Warning.** If at 1pm on the day before your arrival, the [Metservice](https://www.metservice.com/) has issued a RED warning/forecast in either your home region or the region of your accommodation, for either the day of your arrival or departure. - **Natural disasters in New Zealand.** Natural disasters such as cyclones, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, tsunamis, and other severe and abnormal natural events causing large scale disruption of essential services and/or transport, specifically impacting your travel to or from your accommodation.

**4.1** Exceptional or unforeseen circumstance Hosts reserve the right to cancel a booking at any time in the event of exceptional or unforeseen circumstances. This right will only be exercised in good faith and in exceptional circumstances such as: (a) Any alteration to the property or its surroundings which may pose a safety risk for the guest. (b) Unexpected damage or destruction at the property. (c) A death in the Host family. (d) Our relationship with the Host ends for any other reason. In the unlikely event a Host cancels under this clause, the guest may elect to receive a full refund or to credit the booking to another available date or Escape. The Host’s liability will be limited to the refund of amounts paid for any part of your stay that is cancelled. **4.2** Cancellation for breach Hosts may terminate a booking at any time if they, or we, reasonably believe that there is, or has been, a breach of these Booking Conditions by you or any guest or visitor. Where a Host cancels under this clause, all amounts paid are forfeited and, where such termination occurs during the rental period, you and all guests and visitors must immediately leave the property.

**5.1** Accommodation is often situated on working farms and there are hazards both natural and man-made. You accept that you, and any guests or visitors, enter the property at your own risk. 5.2 Participation by you and any guests or visitors in activities, such as, outdoor baths, climbing trees, walking on the property and any other activity on the property, is done so at your and their own risk. **5.3** To the extent permitted by law, neither we nor the Host accept any liability for accident, loss of property or personal injury during your stay.

**9.1** Guests have a licence to occupy the Property for the paid holiday period only. You are responsible for ensuring that you and they arrive no earlier than the check-in date, and leave no later than the check-out time, specified on the Website. **9.2** You are required to, and must ensure that all guests and any approved day visitors, observe the rules and procedures in relation to the property: - Specified on the Website. - Contained in the information folder provided at the property. **9.3** You must, and must ensure that all guests and any approved visitors, take all reasonable and proper care of the property and its furniture, fittings and effects and leave them in the same state of repair, condition, cleanliness and tidiness as at the commencement of the rental period. Where the property has not been left in the same state of repair, condition, cleanliness and tidiness as at the commencement of the rental period, you will be required to pay an additional cleaning cost of $100 which may be charged to the credit or debit card used at the time of booking. **9.4** You are required to inform Canopy Camping Escapes of any damage or breakage occurring during the rental period in or around the property promptly so that it can be repaired and replaced for the next booking. You must reimburse the Host for the reasonable costs of replacement or repair of any damage caused by you or any guests or visitors and such costs may be charged to the credit or debit card (VISA/Mastercard) used at the time of booking. **9.5** You must ensure that any access information in relation to a property (including any access codes, location of keys, etc) is kept confidential and not disclosed to any person. **9.6** Smoking is not permitted anywhere on the properties. **9.7**The Host may access the property during the rental period to the extent reasonably necessary to undertake repairs or replacement or where we or the Host have reason to believe these Booking Terms are not being complied with. **9.8**The number of guests staying at the Escape overnight must be the same as the number of guests included in the booking. Any day visitors must be approved by the Host prior to your stay. No overnight visitors are permitted. **9.9**You and all guests and any approved day visitors must behave in a proper, appropriate and legal manner with due respect to the Host, the Property, other guests and neighbouring properties and neighbours, and Canopy Camping Escapes’ staff and representatives.

If you encounter any issues or problems during your stay, you must first contact the Host to try to resolve the issue. The Host should be given the opportunity to address and fix the problem before any further steps are taken. If you decide to leave the accommodation early due to an issue without first contacting the Host to resolve it, you will not be entitled to compensation. Essentially, if you don’t give the Host a chance to fix the problem, you cannot expect financial reimbursement for leaving early. If you have a complaint that you'd like to alert Canopy Camping Escapes about after your stay, please contact us promptly at [\[email protected\]](/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection) with details of the complaint. As an agent, we will be the initial contact between you and the Host but may need to put you in direct contact to resolve any issues.

To the extent permitted by law, as agent for the Hosts, we have no liability, to you or any other person, in contract, tort (including negligence) or otherwise: - for the acts or omissions of the Hosts; or - under or in relation to these Booking Conditions or your stay, Your rights are against the Host, not Canopy Camping Escapes. If, for any reason, Canopy Camping Escapes has any liability to you under or in relation to these Booking Terms or your stay, to the extent permitted by law, our liability is limited to the 20% of the amount paid by you in relation to the relevant booking. Any liability the Host has to you under or in relation to these Booking Conditions or your stay is, to the extent permitted by law, limited to refund of amounts paid by you for the relevant booking and shall not extend to any other costs or loss incurred by you or any guest or other person.

As the person who completes the Booking Form, you certify that all information provided is true, accurate and correct and that you: are authorised to agree to the Booking Conditions on behalf of all persons included in the Booking Form, including those substituted or added at a later date; are over eighteen years of age; agree to take responsibility for the party occupying the Property and shall ensure that they (and any approved visitors) comply with these Booking Conditions; and will notify us if you are not present at the property for the rental period.

EATING AND DRINKING

Fernglen Retreat is self-catering. Just bring your own food and drink, and cook meals using the BBQ and single-ring gas cooker provided in your undercover outdoor kitchen. You'll find all the cutlery, crockery, pots and pans that you'll need.

If you're wanting to get out and about, Homewood Storeroom is a delicious restaurant just down the road. For something to drink, Riversdale Beach Golf Club has a fully stocked bar open year-round on Tuesdays from 5pm and Friday - Sunday from 4pm.

The Riversdale Beach Store is a convenient 15-minute drive, perfect for takeaways or essentials. For more supply/meal options, stock up in Masterton (1 hour away) prior to your stay.

Your welcome guidebook will include more information regarding directions, menus and opening days/times.

THINGS TO DO

Imagine waking up to the soothing sound of ocean waves right at your doorstep...

Guests have exclusive access to a private beach just a short stroll down a gentle slope from the cabin. With its secluded location, it's highly probable that you'll enjoy the pristine beachfront all to yourselves! Try your luck at fishing, riding the waves on a surfboard, or going diving - there's plenty to do! If you're in the mood for a change of scenery, try the bush walk on the property. Then head up atop the hill above the cabin for a picnic with breathtaking views. You'll also have a few games available, such as Kubb.

For a refreshing summer day trip, Riversdale Beach is an ideal destination. Enjoy a cooling dip in the ocean and take advantage of the nearby golf course and tennis courts.

Explore the region and head out to Castlepoint lighthouse to hike the iconic Castlepoint Rock with awe-inspiring panoramas at every turn (one hour away). The Anzac Crosswalk is another must-do as it stands as the world's first Anzac Memorial.

If you're looking to try out the local restaurants or visit the shops, Masterton is a one-hour drive away with plenty to see.

YOUR HOSTS

Your hosts at Fernglen Retreat are Alice, Cameron and their dog, Nala. Cameron's parents, Shirley and Jeff, are also a part of Fernglen and live on the farm.

Shirley and Jeff bought Fernglen Farm in 1995, only a few years before Cameron was born. For the past 25 years, Cameron has called it home, with Alice joining the family in 2020.

Cameron runs the family-run sheep milking business on Fernglen Farm. Alice is an environmental planning consultant, while also lending a helping hand on the farm whenever she can. They love the peacefulness, surrounding native bush, farmland, and ocean views on their land. The warmth and friendliness of the local community add an extra special touch.

Alice and Cameron discovered glamping when they relocated two small baches from Camp Anderson in Riversdale in 2012. Eager to transform the baches into accommodation, they embarked on a renovation project to create a cosy and enjoyable space for friends, family, and guests to enjoy.

TESTIMONIALS

“ Very nice and private place, we enjoyed it a lot. I was surprised at how warm the cabin was when we arrived, and it stayed warm for the duration. The hosts were very friendly and helpful, replying in a timely manner. We would stay again. The hot tub was great, and the views are picturesque. ”

Alex O'Rourke- 2025-01-13

20 / 20

“ We loved our stay at Fernglen Retreat! Alice was a fantastic host who put a lot of effort into the small details. Would highly recommend to anyone wanting a peaceful stay. ”

Bonnie Simmonds- 2026-05-22

1 / 20

“ We are sheep milk convert! ”

Tiare Head- 2026-04-30

2 / 20

“ The setting is exceptional. We loved the hot tub with its sweeping ocean views, and the short walk to the private beach made the stay feel uniquely special and private. ”

Bronwyn Kelly- 2026-03-31

3 / 20

“ As a first time glamper, I had no idea what to expect, but this place blew me away. The view, the vibe, was the most relaxing weekend I’ve had in a long time! I most definitely will return to stay again. ”

Ann-Maree Marsden- 2026-03-03

4 / 20

“ We had a beautiful view and it was so peaceful, just what we were looking for. ”

Megan Ferris- 2025-11-18

5 / 20

“ Our stay at Fernglen Retreat was incredible! Stunning views and so many nice touches from the hosts. Would definitely recommend. ”

Sinead Washington- 2025-11-10

6 / 20

“ Absolutely loved our little getaway. So relaxing and romantic. Exactly what we needed for some much needed R&R. ”

Ronica Reynolds- 2025-11-07

7 / 20

“ Loved our stay, secluded with private beach access. A beautiful place to disconnect and unwind. ”

Bianca Huynen- 2025-10-17

8 / 20

“ Absolutely amazing. Fernglen Retreat has stunning views and a cosy off-grid cabin that made the stay so special. The hosts were wonderful, and it was clear they put a lot of thought into ensuring we had a great experience. Everything felt high quality, from the beautiful linen throughout to all the thoughtful little extras. A perfect place to relax and unwind. Highly recommend. ”

Awhina Soderholm- 2025-09-27

9 / 20

“ An amazing place, all on its own and right by the sea. We had a fantastic time and loved the views from the hot tub. ”

Martin Grimshaw- 2025-09-22

10 / 20

“ The location and atmosphere here are unbeatable. The views are absolutely breathtaking, and you feel like you’re in your own private world, surrounded by the natural beauty and sounds of the ocean and sea breeze. Highly recommend. My partner and I adored our stay here. ”

Petra Evans- 2025-09-05

11 / 20

“ Do not hesitate to book a stay at this beautiful spot - our time here was truly magical. I hope we can come back sometime! ”

Rosie Aspen- 2025-07-29

12 / 20

“ It was a perfect getaway from the busy city life and we enjoyed it a lot. The views were amazing. Sitting in the hot tub under a clear sky and watching the stars was one of the most amazing experiences that we had. ”

Siddharth Chaukekar- 2025-06-06

13 / 20

“ Loved it. Peaceful, cosy and comfortable. Would highly recommend to anyone wanting to get away. Just wish we had more time there. ”

Robert West- 2025-05-24

14 / 20

“ This is genuinely one of the most special places out there. Everything about it was perfect for a cosy winter weekend, and we will for sure be back in summer to experience it that way as well. The place itself was immaculately clean and beautifully decorated, with everything you could possibly need. You also just can’t beat the hot tub and its incredible view. Could not recommend staying here enough. ”

Kate Jolly- 2025-05-20

15 / 20

“ Peaceful and beautiful spot. ”

Shona Cole- 2025-04-10

16 / 20

“ Fabulous location by the ocean to get away from it all. The hot tub views were stunning. Rustic charm with all the amenities required. ”

Sharon Ingram- 2025-03-25

17 / 20

“ Great, clean, comfortable quality bedding in a remote, beautiful seaside location, yet still an off-the-grid camping experience, with the backup of caring hosts. ”

Andrew Muller- 2025-02-02

18 / 20

“ It's like an exclusive, almost off-grid bach, just 50m away from the beach. We took all we’d need and just stayed there for the duration, although you could choose to go out to check food and drink places not too far away if you wanted. ”

Thornton Peck- 2025-01-21

19 / 20

Alex O'Rourke- 2025-01-13

20 / 20

“ We loved our stay at Fernglen Retreat! Alice was a fantastic host who put a lot of effort into the small details. Would highly recommend to anyone wanting a peaceful stay. ”

Bonnie Simmonds- 2026-05-22

1 / 20

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