Join us for a Creative Writing and Reading Retreat with NZ best-selling author Naomi Arnold.

Scheduled for the Nelson Anniversary weekend of Friday 30 January 2026 to Monday 2 February 2026.

Naomi Arnold is an award-winning journalist and natural history writer. She contributes to most national publications including RNZ, North & South, Wilderness, and New Zealand Geographic, as well as international outlets including The Washington Post and The Guardian. Learn more about Naomi here.

4-day Creative Writing and Reading Retreat with Naomi Arnold: Friday 30 January 2026 to Monday 2 February 2026

10 spaces available

This summer, step into a storybook setting with New Zealand best-selling author, Naomi Arnold, as she leads the first Reading Retreat at Maruia River Retreat. Think “Nature Book Club”. Gentle yoga, forest bathing, and guided walks weave wellness into each moment, while nourishing meals warm the soul. It’s a retreat where books and nature meet, leaving you refreshed, inspired, and a little more in love with summer.

The 3-night Retreat Package includes:

• 3-night Private villa solo or twin-share accommodation with river, mountain and forest views

• All meals

• Daily yoga classes with Cristina

• Creative writing workshops, daily reading workshops, activities and sessions with Naomi Arnold (total of 10-12 hours)

• Guided nature walks in 500-acres of native beech forest

• Forest bathing in the outdoor Stoked Hot Tub, Infrared Chroma-therapy and Finnish Sauna

• Use of all wellness facilities

• Optional extra: spa and massage treatments

Last 2 villas on Special Offer: **SOLD OUT.

• Master Villa Solo: 1 villa at $2950 total 1 person

• Master Villa Twin Share: 1 villa at $1990 per person

• Luxe Villa Solo: 1 villa at $2450 total for 1 person

• Luxe Villa Twin Share: 3 villas at $1750 per person

To get on the Waitlist for the next Writing Retreat scheduled for the Fall Season, email reservations@maruia.co.nz or call Jackie at +64 02102 33 11 44