Rainforest Retreat

Franz Josef -43.38544900, 170.18373200 , 46 Cron Street (Show on Map)
8.7
Very Good


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Summary of reviewsRainforest Retreat in Franz Josef is widely praised for its enchanting location nestled within vibrant rainforest landscapes. Guests relish the convenience of access to local attractions and amenities while enjoying the tranquility of stunning natural surroundings, including breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains and the soothing sounds of native birds. The beautifully landscaped grounds enhance the rustic charm and provide a perfect backdrop for relaxation or exploration, making it a memorable destination for both adventurers and those seeking a peaceful retreat.

The on-site dining experience at Monsoon restaurant is often highlighted for its cozy atmosphere and high-quality meals. Guests particularly enjoy its delicious dinners, delectable desserts, and the warm ambiance created by log fires. Despite mixed reviews about breakfast offerings, the dining staff's attentiveness and the availability of barista coffee contribute positively to the overall culinary experience. Dinner at Monsoon, with its varied menu and friendly service, becomes a notable part of the stay, further complemented by the bar's vibrant drinks selection.

Accommodation options at Rainforest Retreat are consistently praised for their cleanliness, comfort, and well-equipped amenities. Rooms range from charming cabins to private suites, offering good facilities for cooking and living while providing exceptional views and privacy. The peaceful setting within the rainforest affords an ideal escape, with features such as private hot tubs and communal areas like Gecko Village's hot tub elevating the experience. The meticulous upkeep and thoughtful decor of the accommodations ensure a cozy, memorable stay despite minor inconveniences.

Exceptional service from the staff adds to the welcoming and friendly atmosphere, with numerous guests commending the team's helpfulness and dedication to hospitality. Individual staff members receive acknowledgment for going above and beyond, enhancing guests' experiences with personalized touches and thoughtful gestures. While the free Wi-Fi experience has room for improvement, the availability of convenient parking, especially close to certain accommodations, is appreciated by many, even though some guests encountered challenges with unclear signage.

Families find Rainforest Retreat particularly appealing, as spacious and modern accommodations cater to different sizes and offer privacy and comfort. Attractions such as personal spas and family-friendly amenities like toys and trampolines contribute to a lively, inviting environment that enhances family vacations. The comfortable beds further ensure restful nights, though some guests find them too soft.

The retreat's hot tubs and spa facilities emerge as standout features, providing a serene escape amidst lush greenery. Private treetop hot tubs and well-received sauna facilities add a luxurious and relaxing dimension to the stay, making them delightful additions, especially after a day of adventure or in rainy weather. Overall, Rainforest Retreat offers a harmonious blend of natural beauty, comfort, and attentive service, creating a cherished destination for travelers seeking tranquility and memorable experiences amidst New Zealand's wilderness.
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Resort for Honeymoon
Located in Franz Josef, Rainforest Retreat offers a range of accommodations including luxury treehouses with private spa pools. It's ideally situated for exploring glaciers and provides a romantic setting under the stars.

Family Friendly Resort
Rainforest Retreat offers a variety of accommodations, including family-friendly tree houses and huts nestled in native bush. It features a communal spa pool, guest BBQ, a restaurant, and a TV lounge. The unique setting provides a captivating experience for families seeking both relaxation and adventure.
What percentage of your guests are families? Between 50% and 90%
Family-Friendly room types:
Family rooms
Triple rooms
Quad rooms
One-bedroom apartments
Two-bedroom apartments
Three-bedroom apartments
Answers last updated by Rainforest Retreat

Dog Friendly Resort
Rainforest Retreat is a resort in Franz Josef that welcomes pets. While specific amenities for dogs aren't detailed, its resort setting provides ample outdoor space for walks and exercise.

  Dogs Stay Free  

Do you accept dogs in all rooms?
No, some rooms only: Private rooms only
Is there an extra charge?
Free! There is no extra charge. Dogs stay for free.
Should the dog owner notify you before checking in?
Not necessarily
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Resort with Free Wi-Fi
As a resort, Rainforest Retreat offers a comprehensive experience with potential for excellent Wi-Fi coverage across its property. It provides a relaxing environment with internet connectivity, suitable for both leisure and remote work.

Resort with Parking
This resort is surrounded by a rainforest environment. It offers parking facilities and is not far from the main highway, making it convenient for glacier viewing and hiking.

Resort with Rooms With Jacuzzi / Hot-tub
Rainforest Retreat offers various accommodation options, including spa pool chalets, providing a private hot tub experience amidst a rainforest setting.

4-Star Resort
Located in the heart of glacier country, this retreat offers a range of accommodations set among lush native bush. Guests can enjoy a spa and sauna, as well as an on-site restaurant. The retreat offers various accommodation types, including luxury tree huts.

Resort where Dogs Stay Free
This resort accommodates guests with dogs by allowing them to stay for free.

Romantic Resort

Room Types
Neinei holiday house with Hot Tub This spacious holiday house features a queen bedroom and two twin beds, with an extra pull-out single bed. The house has a fully equipped kitchen and laundry, a lounge and dining area, and outdoor decks – offering indoor and outdoor living, surrounded by beautiful native bush. Please note that the price is based on 6 guests. Maximum occupancy is 7 (see Hotel Policies). Please note that when booking for 4 guests, you will have access to 2 bedrooms only. When booking for 6 or more guests you will have access to the third bedrooms.​

Kamahi holiday house with Hot Tub This secluded, spacious holiday house features 4 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms. 2 bedrooms include an outside entrance, a queen bed and single bed, as well as an en suite bathroom. The other 2 bedrooms are located within the house and include a queen bed in each. All bedrooms include a flat-screen LCD TV. The living room features a 40-inch flat-screen TV with satellite channels. There is a dining area and fully equipped kitchen and laundry. Guests can enjoy the use of board games. Please note that the price is based on 8 guests. Maximum occupancy is 10 (see Hotel Policies). Please note that when booking for 4 guests, you will have access to 2 bedrooms only. When booking for 6 or more guests you will have access to the third bedrooms.​

Studio Motel Room Traditional style Studio Motel Rooms are fitted with a queen bed and a single bed, or a queen bed and a set of bunk beds. The room includes a bathroom, kitchenette, a Nespresso coffee machine, LCD TV, and an iPod / iPhone dock. Please note that the price is based on 2 guests. Maximum occupancy is 3 (see Hotel Policies).

Small Double Room with Ensuite These cosy En-suite Double Rooms are compact but well equipped, with a queen bed, en suite bathroom, tea/coffee making facilities, LCD TV, and an iPod/iPhone dock. Please note that there is no capacity for additional guests.

Tree Hut The rustic warmth of these log cabins amongst the forest canopy evokes solitude and privacy. Each tree hut has its own balcony surrounded by native bush, a king and a single bed, cable TV, a bathroom and facilities to make a continental breakfast. Please note that the price is based on 2 guests. Maximum occupancy is 3 (see Hotel Policies).

Tree Lodge Modern studio units set amongst the rainforest, featuring large furnished decks from which you can enjoy the bush setting. Furnished with either one king bed, or a queen bed with a single. They have a modern bathroom, kitchenette and great forest views. Please note that the price is based on 2 guests. Maximum occupancy is 3 (see Hotel Policies).

Holiday Home Gecko Gecko House is set within Gecko Village, a secluded area of Rainforest Retreat that offers privacy and peace, tucked amongst ponga ferns. You can choose from 2 to 5 bedrooms within the house, depending on the make-up your group, and also enjoy a beautiful garden and hot tub shared only by Gecko Village residents. The Gecko House has a large living and dining area and a fully equipped kitchen; and all of the rooms open onto furnished outdoor decks. Please note that when booking for 4 guests, you will have access to 2 bedrooms only. When booking for 6 or more guests you will have access to the third bedrooms.​

Gecko Cottage Secluded in the Gecko Village, these Cottages are 1940’s forestry worker’s huts that have been given a modern makeover. Each room features a king bed, a compact bathroom, tea/coffee and breakfast making facilities, and a TV. The Gecko village features 5 Gecko Cottages and a stylish modern House in a tranquil rainforest setting with a shared outdoor spa pool exclusively for Gecko Village guests.

Bed in 4-Bed Mixed Dormitory Room These 4-bed dorms have the convenience of a private bathroom and ground floor access. The rooms come with fresh linen, duvets and cable TV, and the ensuite bathroom comes with shampoo, body wash and a hairdryer.

Bed in 6-Bed Mixed Dormitory Room The beds in these 5-6 bed dorms come made up with fresh linen. Guests have access to a shared bathroom.

Budget Family Room with Ensuite These cosy, compact rooms feature a King Bed, a set of bunk beds, an en-suite bathroom, LCD TV and tea/coffee making facilities. Guests have use of the large shared kitchen and hot tub.

Deluxe Spa Tree House This spacious, stylish, 2-bedroom raised tree house is privately nestled amongst lush rainforest with a large outdoor deck that features a spa pool for unwinding and relaxation amongst the forest canopy. Each bedroom has a king-sized bed with pristine linen and plush pillows. There is large en suite bathroom with a rain shower and underfloor heating and a kitchen with a Nespresso coffee machine. The lounge has a double sofa bed and satellite TV. Please note that when booking for 2 guests, you will have access to 1 bedroom only. When booking for 3 guests you will have access to the second bedroom.

Deluxe Tree Lodge This spacious, stylish studio is privately nestled amongst lush rainforest with large spacious decks. There is a king-sized bed and a single-sized beds, each with pristine linen and plush pillows. There is a large en suite bathroom with a rain shower and underfloor heating. A sofa, satellite TV and a kitchenette with a Nespresso coffee machine are included.

Deluxe Tree Hut This Deluxe Tree Hut is privately nestled amongst lush rainforest. It features a king bed with linen and plush pillows. Large en suite bathroom comes with rain shower and underfloor heating. Continental breakfast making facilities include a Nespresso machine.

Three-Bedroom Gecko House Gecko House is set within Gecko Village, a secluded area of Rainforest Retreat set amongst ponga ferns. Enjoy a garden and hot tub shared only by Gecko Village residents. The Gecko House has a spacious living and dining area and a fully equipped kitchen. All rooms open onto furnished outdoor decks.

Quadruple Room with Bathroom This small en suite room comes with bunk beds available for sole use. This room has a private bathroom, a TV and tea/coffee making facilities.

Rowi holiday house with hot tub This three-bedroom home is located within a short walk of all Franz Josef bars, restaurants and shops. The holiday home features a private spa pool. The house has a large open plan kitchen and living room. The three large bedroom each feature either a king bed or 2 single beds. There is one bathroom with a shower. In the garden you will find a 6-person private spa pool, a trampoline and plenty of space. The house also has a laundry with a washing machine and dryer.

Kea House - Spacious Family Home with Trampoline This holiday home provides a sauna. This holiday home comprises 1 living room, 6 separate bedrooms and 2 bathrooms with a bath and free toiletries. Guests can make meals in the kitchen that comes with a stovetop, a refrigerator, kitchenware and an oven. This holiday home is air-conditioned and features a seating area with a flat-screen TV, a washing machine, a dining area, tumble dryer, as well as a carpeted floor. The unit offers 7 beds.

1 single bed in a 3 Bed Log Cabin Dorm (No Bunks) The unit offers 3 beds.

Bed in 8-Bed Mixed Dormitory Room

Guest Reviews
8.7
Very Good
Location
Nestled in the lush and vibrant rainforest of Franz Josef, Rainforest Retreat boasts a location that is as captivating as it is convenient. The accommodation is ideally positioned, allowing guests effortless access to local attractions, shops, and dining venues, all within easy walking distance. Surrounded by stunning natural scenery, guests are treated to breathtaking views of snowcapped mountains and can enjoy the tranquil sounds of native birds that enhance the serene atmosphere. The setting within the rainforest not only offers peaceful seclusion but also maintains a rustic charm, truly immersing visitors in the beauty of New Zealand’s wilderness. The beautifully landscaped grounds further maximize this enchanting environment, providing a perfect backdrop for relaxation and exploration. Whether guests are seeking adventure or a quiet retreat, Rainforest Retreat’s prime location and thoughtful design make for an unforgettable stay amidst nature’s grandeur.

Breakfast
Rainforest Retreat offers a delightful dining experience, with its onsite restaurant consistently praised for its cozy atmosphere and excellent cuisine. Guests appreciate the relaxing ambiance while enjoying meals, with the option of indulging in delicious dishes at the Monsoon, particularly recommended for its breakfast offerings. However, breakfast experiences present a mixed bag, as it is often not included, and some visitors find it sparse or mediocre. While some delight in a continental breakfast delivered in charming baskets, complete with fresh bread and spreads, others suggest improvements or recommend exploring nearby options or self-catering. Despite this, the inclusion of barista coffee and the attentive dining staff provide a pleasant touch. All in all, while the breakfast may not be the highlight for some, the overall dining experience at Rainforest Retreat leaves many guests satisfied.

Dinner
Nestled in the heart of the Rainforest Retreat, the dining experience at the Monsoon restaurant offers a delightful culinary journey. Many guests praised the delicious and high-quality meals served at this on-site eatery, highlighting the tasty dinners and delectable desserts. The staff are frequently noted for being friendly and attentive, ensuring excellent service that complements the flavorful dishes. Visitors particularly enjoyed the cozy, warm ambiance created by the log fires, making it a perfect spot for a hearty meal after an adventurous hike.

The restaurant's setting and the atmosphere are often described as beautiful and welcoming, with some guests mentioning the outstanding service from team members like Hudson and Londie. Convenience is another perk of the Monsoon, providing easy access for those staying at the Retreat or nearby, with a varied menu that caters to different tastes. However, a few diners pointed out the slow service during peak times, with longer wait times for meals.

Additionally, the bar attached to the restaurant adds to the vibrant dining experience, offering great drinks and an inviting vibe. While some guests experienced minor inconveniences, such as limited availability of hot drinks at night or occasional rude encounters, the overall impression remains highly positive. Monsoon stands out not just for its food but also as a central location for enjoying the charming surroundings of the Rainforest Retreat.

Rooms
Rainforest Retreat offers a blend of cozy, well-equipped accommodations set amidst stunning natural surroundings. The guest rooms, ranging from cute cabins to private suites, are consistently praised for their cleanliness, modern amenities, and comfort. Many guests found the rooms spacious and well designed, with good facilities for cooking and living. Upgrades to room types like the Tree House chalets and deluxe units have delighted visitors with exceptional views and privacy. The location is a significant highlight, providing easy access to Franz Josef's main sites while retaining a peaceful, secluded atmosphere.

The cottages and cabins are beautifully integrated into the rainforest setting, providing a quiet escape with comfortable beds and modern facilities. Unique features such as private hot tubs and excellent communal areas, like the Gecko Village hot tub, enhance the experience. The rooms are styled with thoughtful decor, and some accommodations like the deluxe studio offer extra luxury with spacious layouts and updated bathrooms. Despite minor size issues in some units, the thoughtfully designed interiors and comprehensive amenities ensure a pleasant stay. Overall, the retreat's ease of access, tranquil setting, and well-kept, comfortable rooms make it a favored choice among travelers seeking a mix of adventure and relaxation in a breathtaking environment.

Beds
Rainforest Retreat offers guests a restful experience with its comfortable bedding. Many found the beds delightfully comfortable, enhancing their stay with cozy and soft mattresses that promise a rejuvenating sleep. The rooms are equipped with spacious bathrooms featuring excellent water pressure, adding to the comfort and convenience of the accommodation. Despite some guests finding the beds too soft and lacking structure, the majority appreciate the comfort provided. The serene location further contributes to a restful night. While some rooms face minor issues such as cramped spaces or noisy appliances, overall, they provide a pleasant stay. The beds are largely seen as a highlight, described by some as the most comfortable beds they encountered on their travels.

Cleanliness
Rainforest Retreat is a sanctuary nestled within lush forest surroundings, expertly blending comfort and nature. Guests consistently highlight the exceptional cleanliness throughout the property, including the spotless communal areas and well-equipped kitchenette facilities. The accommodations, ranging from spacious cabins to cozy rooms, are praised for their tidy and super clean interiors, offering a sense of luxury and comfort.

The attention to cleanliness is evident, as rooms are not only clean but also meticulously maintained with daily tidying by attentive staff. Bathrooms and kitchens are frequently noted for their cleanliness and functionality, despite occasional comments on outdated furnishings and minor maintenance issues. The comfortable beds and ability to access amenities like a spa and hot tub enhance the guest experience.

Well-appointed facilities, combined with a welcoming environment, provide a seamless blend of relaxation and practicality, ensuring a memorable stay. Despite minor setbacks like the lack of air conditioning and some aging features, the retreat's commitment to cleanliness and comfort remains a standout feature, making it a cherished destination for those seeking tranquility amidst nature.

Staff
The staff at Rainforest Retreat consistently receives high praise from guests, creating a welcoming and friendly atmosphere that greatly enhances the stay. Many reviewers highlight the team's approachable and courteous nature, emphasizing their readiness to assist and ensure that every query or need is addressed promptly. Instances of exceptional customer service are frequently noted, with particular mention of the outstanding reception staff and the helpfulness displayed during check-in processes. Specific staff members, such as Luca and Rebecca, have been commended individually for going above and beyond to provide detailed insights and personalized touches, enhancing guests' experiences.

Moreover, the staff's accommodating and thoughtful gestures, like room upgrades and assistance with lost items, are genuinely appreciated by visitors. The helpful nature of the team extends across various areas within the retreat, from the charming and funny waitresses in the dining area to the amiable bar staff. Even though the restaurant service has room for improvement, the staff's overall dedication to hospitality stands out as a key highlight of the property.

Overall, the combination of friendly and proactive service from the Rainforest Retreat staff significantly contributes to the delight and satisfaction of guests, making it a property that not only offers a serene environment but also a warm and congenial human touch.

Wi-Fi
At Rainforest Retreat, opinions on the Wi-Fi experience lean towards the unfavorable. Several guests report challenges, such as poor or non-existent connectivity, with some describing the Wi-Fi as among the least reliable encountered during their travels in New Zealand. Issues such as weak signals, frequent disconnections, and unreliable service, particularly in the afternoons and evenings, are commonly noted. While there are some mentions of good or free Wi-Fi at the retreat, most reviews point to a need for improvement in ensuring a consistent and functional internet connection for guests.

Parking
Rainforest Retreat offers onsite parking that guests generally find convenient and functional. Many reviewers appreciate the abundance of parking spaces available, with free parking as an added bonus. For several cabins, parking is conveniently located right in front, making unloading luggage a breeze. Guests often describe the parking as easy to find and close enough for comfort, though some noted it could be tricky but ultimately manageable.

However, there are a few concerns regarding parking arrangements. Some guests expressed difficulty in locating their designated spots due to inadequate signage and unclear instructions. Issues like tight spaces, chaotic parking management, and parking areas situated far from accommodations occasionally posed inconvenience. Specific cases involved carrying luggage over a distance, especially in poorly lit areas at night.

Despite these challenges, many travelers found the parking suitable for their needs, with enough spots available to accommodate all guests. Those staying in specific accommodations like the cabins and huts may have to deal with tight or limited spaces, requiring a bit of patience and maneuvering skills. Nonetheless, the overall parking experience at Rainforest Retreat is satisfactory for most, with the convenience of easy access making it a viable aspect of the stay.

Family
Rainforest Retreat is an ideal destination for a family holiday, offering a wide range of accommodation options that cater to families of varying sizes. Many guests appreciate the feeling of luxury in the upgraded rooms, which make for a delightful experience with children in tow. Families of four to six find that the spacious, clean units, often featuring private hot tubs, provide both privacy and comfort. The retreat's accommodations, from three-bedroom houses to gecko cabins, are consistently noted for their modern amenities and cleanliness, ensuring a comfortable stay for families.

The retreat maintains a charming, woodsy holiday village ambiance, which is complemented by the friendly atmosphere created by a diverse mix of travelers, including other families and tour groups. The convenience of a well-equipped kitchen and dining area is frequently highlighted, making it easy for families to prepare meals and enjoy time together. For those looking for relaxation, the personal spas and spa pools are particularly praised, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to their stay.

Though some areas, like the dorm rooms, could use improvements, the overall experience for families seems overwhelmingly positive. The location's walkability and proximity to town amenities add to its appeal. Additionally, family-friendly touches such as toys for kids and a trampoline enhance the enjoyment for younger guests. Rainforest Retreat stands out as a serene and inviting haven, surrounded by nature's beauty, providing a memorable experience for family vacations in New Zealand.

Rooms with Jacuzzi / Hot-Tub
Rainforest Retreat offers a blend of relaxation with its well-regarded hot tub and spa facilities. Guests frequently highlight the private hot tubs nestled in treetop settings as a standout feature, describing them as a luxurious and worthwhile indulgence. These hot tubs, often located on terraces or balconies, provide a serene escape surrounded by lush greenery, enhancing the overall tranquility of the experience.

Several accommodations, like the deluxe treehouses and individual cottages, include their own private hot tubs and jacuzzis, which guests found to be exceptional perks, perfect for unwinding after adventurous hikes or a day of travel. The availability of communal hot tubs was also appreciated; however, some visitors noted they could use a bit of maintenance.

The retreat's sauna and spa facilities were also well-received, with many guests enjoying these amenities as relaxing bonuses during their stay. Although some guests mentioned certain shared areas showing signs of wear, the overall consensus marked these features as delightful additions to the retreat experience.

In addition to the hot tub and spa amenities, the retreat received positive feedback for its location, courteous staff, spacious accommodations, and culinary offerings at the Monsoon restaurant. Many guests found the combination of comfortable lodging and soothing spa treatments to make for a memorable stay, even when the weather turned rainy.

Romantic
Nestled amidst lush greenery and enveloped by the soothing sounds of nature, the Rainforest Retreat offers a truly romantic haven for couples seeking a serene escape. Its cozy and warm ambiance sets the stage for an unforgettable getaway, where the Tree Lodge stands out as an idyllic choice for partners looking to connect and unwind. The Retreat beckons with the allure of relaxation in the hot pool, a delightful perk included at a reasonable price, although it draws guests from all accommodations and can be bustling. Yet, the charm of the property lies in its tranquility, providing a perfect backdrop for couples to indulge in quiet moments together.

The experience is accentuated by evenings spent beneath trees adorned with moss, offering dappled starlight that makes for magical moments of chilling and chatting under nature's canopy. The spa, featuring a cozy jacuzzi, offers refreshing solitude—often not crowded—where one can relax among the trees, feeling the earth's heartbeat. The sentiment of wanting to stay longer than just one night echoes among guests, a testament to the Retreat's captivating environment. Despite minor hiccups, such as occasional water issues, the Rainforest Retreat leaves visitors wishing for more frequent escapes to this romantic sanctuary.

Dog Friendly
Rainforest Retreat is an exceptional property that warmly welcomes guests with dogs, making it a standout choice for pet owners seeking a friendly getaway. Located conveniently close to the heli hike place, relaxing hot tubs, and charming restaurants in the town center, this retreat offers an excellent setting for visitors interested in exploring the surrounding area. The accommodations cater to all budgets and group sizes, from backpackers and RV travelers to romantic couples and family units, ensuring every guest finds a suitable option. The retreat's setup is great, and the clear rules and guidelines for dogs contribute to a pleasant stay for both guests and their furry companions. With a welcoming environment and a range of amenities, Rainforest Retreat promises guests a memorable experience, especially those traveling with dogs.


No, Rainforest Retreat doesn't have any pool.

No, a spa isn't available at Rainforest Retreat.

Yes, Rainforest Retreat welcomes dogs. For more information, read the answers to the Dog Friendly questionnaire

Yes, parking facilities are available at Rainforest Retreat.

No, Rainforest Retreat doesn't have a gym.

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