Marlborough Sounds wilderness retreat in NZ
How this holiday makes a difference
Environment
About 18 years ago, on a hike, we stumbled on this beautiful bit of land. We fell in love and purchased it. Soon we realised that the land was plagued by introduced species that slowly destroyed the bush. We had to take quick action. Over the years we have built up an outstanding pest management program that after eighteen years is under control. We are even in the process of building a fence to stop the pigs from getting access to the peninsula.
The 'Falcon Retreat' is built from pinetree timber (which grows locally) and are well insulated. 'Tui Haven' has a woodburner, we use only 'dead' firewood and non native tree species. We have used as many recycled materials as we could, such as doors and windows for the cottage. This also adds charm to the building.
The Falcon Retreat has solar power and are fitted with 12 Volt lights. Both cabins and cottage have oil lamps or candles. Power for the cottage is partly generated by an efficient and low noise Honda generator for a few hours a night, after that it will run from the battery inverter.
Rainwater is collected from the roofs and it tastes delicious! We filter it down to 1 Micron. Water is also pumped up from the spring which is used for the drier periods. We ask guest to use water wisely and to re-use their towels.
We buy food as much as we can from our bulk food store, which reduces packing material. Groceries are transported in crates so we don't need plastic bags. We make use of the mailboat, delivering groceries once a week rather then going out to pick them up ourselves, reducing fuel usage. Food scraps will be composted for the garden, that is, if the flightless Weka bird will leave something behind.
The reserve caters for low numbers. Usually no more then 8 people, excluding our family. This will make your stay even more valuable, and allow us to maintain a minimal environmental impact. The reserve has 38 hectare protected by a Queen Elizabeth Trust covenant. We strive to return the peninsula back to its original state, a place where you can enjoy the environment as it once was!
Over the years we have built enclosures to house the native reptiles and be able to boost their numbers in the wild. We also have an aviary with Kakariki and are part of the 'Conservation Dog Programme' run by Department of Conservation, to train dogs for predator control. A bird pond in the bush is established to create a little haven for the birds specially in the dry summer months.
Community
We are in the process of setting up a Charitable Organisation that will focus on improving conservation in the area by introducing young people to experienced environmental professionals that like to pass on their skills and knowledge to a younger generation.
Landscape
We will be delighted to share our knowledge and entertaining stories about the development of the reserve. It has always been our aim to work with the natural surroundings and this can be most clearly noticed when you stay at the Falcon Retreat.
