
The Hilliard Suite
Sleeps 2
The largest and grandest of our Suites at 90sqm. This 5-Star Suite is at the furthest corner of the property which provides the best views of Nelson City and down to the sea.
Six suites in a gracious former bishop’s estate
Hidden within beautiful established gardens just minutes from the heart of Nelson, Pihopa Retreat is one of those special places that feels private and peaceful from the moment you arrive. Set within the historic grounds of the former Bishop’s residence, this intimate luxury retreat blends heritage, understated elegance and wonderfully warm New Zealand hospitality.
The beautifully appointed suites are spacious, elegant and designed for complete relaxation, with luxurious linens, thoughtful details and views across the gardens. There’s a lovely sense of calm here – nothing is overdone and everything feels considered.
Mornings begin with breakfast in the heritage chapel, a beautiful and memorable setting in which to start the day. Later, explore Nelson’s galleries, boutiques and restaurants, knowing there’s a complimentary taxi transfer to and from Nelson city, so you can head out for dinner and relax without having to drive.
Back at the retreat, evenings have their own relaxed ritual. Join your hosts for drinks and canapés by the pool, settle into the gardens and enjoy the last of the Nelson sunshine. It’s these personal touches, along with the warmth and generosity of Sarah and her team that make a stay here feel so special.
Pihopa is also beautifully placed for exploring the wider Nelson Tasman region. Discover local wineries and artisan producers, spend a day beside the water or venture further afield to the golden beaches and native bush of Abel Tasman National Park.
Recognised in the Condé Nast Traveller awards, Pihopa has earned international attention while retaining the intimate, personal character of a small luxury retreat.
For travellers seeking luxury accommodation in Nelson, Pihopa offers something quite distinctive – privacy and beautiful surroundings, but with Nelson city only minutes away.
Come for the heritage and beautiful setting, stay for the hospitality, long breakfasts in the chapel and drinks beside the pool.
Relaxed Nelson luxury at its very best.


Pihopa Retreat — a short film
Each of the six spacious suites has been thoughtfully designed to offer understated elegance, generous space and complete comfort. Sink into a king bed dressed in Egyptian cotton, relax beside the fire with a good book, or step onto your private balcony overlooking the gardens.
Every suite has a well-appointed kitchenette with Nespresso coffee, Zealong teas and a minibar of local treats. Generous ensuites have deep soaking baths, rain showers, plush robes and premium amenities. It’s the kind of comfort that invites you to stay a little longer.


Sleeps 2
The largest and grandest of our Suites at 90sqm. This 5-Star Suite is at the furthest corner of the property which provides the best views of Nelson City and down to the sea.

Sleeps 2
The suite is incredibly spacious comprising of three rooms and a balcony covering 75sqm. The bedroom has a king bed, but can also be configured with twin beds.

Sleeps 2
75sqm luxurious suite with separate lounge

Sleeps 2
Luxury suite at 55sqm - adjoins Hilliard Suite

Sleeps 2
55sqm suite is suitable for wheelchair access

Open plan living/sleeping - private balcony overlooks the garden

A glass of New Zealand wine, a fine whisky or port, and handcrafted chocolates before wandering the gardens or settling beside the heated pool.
As evening approaches, guests gather in the elegant pool house for complimentary drinks and beautifully prepared canapés — a signature Pihopa experience. Afterwards your hosts arrange a complimentary taxi into central Nelson, where some of the region’s finest restaurants await.
And in the morning, breakfast in the beautifully restored heritage chapel — surrounded by history, filled with natural light, and the region’s fresh seasonal produce before you head off to explore.
Everything below is part of the nightly rate — no small print, no quiet extras.
Neudorf and the Moutere valleys
A factory tour worth the detour
Nelson’s unlikely treasure house
Glass, paint and ceramics, everywhere
Regional photography courtesy of nelsontasman.nz, taken by Bare Kiwi.
Boutique wineries, galleries and the vibrant Saturday Market on the doorstep; Abel Tasman's golden beaches and coves — by kayak, sailboat or scenic helicopter — a little further on.
Pihopa Retreat appears in — Art & Gardens · Celebrations · Cuisine & Wine · Wellness
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