The joy of a secluded getaway

Some of my favourite holidays have been set far out of the way of civilisation. One such adventure was the carefree summer spent at a classic Kiwi bach in Waitete Bay. The tiny bay is found on the west coast of Coromandel Peninsula between Amodeo Bay and Colville, and there is not much to do there apart from splash around in the lowkey waves or rock hop along the tidal outcrop.

If you are looking for internet access or to replenish the pantry, it is a 30-minute drive to the Coromandel township.

I found a far more lavish option at The Lindis, an ultraluxury lodge set on 2630 secluded hectares bordering South Canterbury and North Otago in the Lindis Pass.

While facilities inside the swooping wooden property are fit for royalty, guests who would like to explore the barren Ahuriri Valley are required to take a personal locator beacon, two-way radio and map.

This week, Brook Sabin finds one of the best, most secluded places he has ever stayed in New Zealand, tucked away on rugged farmland an hour north of Dunedin. To reach Fallow Ridge Retreat guests need to follow a 13km gravel road with an information sheet so they don’t get lost. As you will read on pages 38 and 39, the long-winded trek is totally worth it. The retreat sits beside Mt Watkin/ Hikaroroa with spectacular views of boulder fields and dry coastal forest.

Guests can take it all in from their own secluded outdoor cedar bathtub or shelter from the elements in front of the suspended sphere fire.

On page 35, Siobhan Downes uncovers another treasure in the middle of nowhere. Waipiata might be just a dot on the map in the Ma¯ niototo region of Central Otago, but its local hotel serves some of the heftiest pies in the country, weighing in at a massive 500g each.

Just the sustenance you need for your next way-out adventure.