Rest, Relax and Reconnect in Raglan

Raglan is a special part of New Zealand; a vibrant yet relaxed coastal town, with wellness vibes, epic surf beaches, rolling hills, rivers and waterfalls – it somehow feels like an escape of its own within our already beautiful country. And if that’s the case, then Three Streams is an escape within an escape.

Just a short, 10-minute drive from Raglan Town, 'The Studio' forms one of two properties available at Three Streams. As I drove up the drive, past the friendly cows and mindful of the wandering chooks, The Studio beckoned with those same vibrant yet chilled vibes that echo through Raglan.

With a rustic, farm-style exterior, The Studio explodes with funky, well-curated character as soon as you open the door. The open-plan lounge, well-equipped kitchen, ample dining, super comfortable studio bedroom, modern bathroom, and separate second bedroom with twin beds, all come together in the stylish space to create a true haven.

I barely knew what to do with myself first – I spent a lot of my time simply relaxing; reading, watching TV, enjoying hot drinks watching the foggy sunrise, or a cold beverage soaking up the afternoon sun in the courtyard. I was also able to ‘work from home’ during my stay, thanks to the excellent wifi and work space options.

I also, of course, enjoyed an abundance of time in the outdoor bath – at night under the stars listening for Morepork while the candle light flickered was pure magic. And an afternoon spent in the bath with the friendly chickens stopping by to check on me was also pretty special!

A visit to Raglan wouldn’t be complete without exploring this unique slice of Aotearoa. Dinner from Raglan Fish was on the agenda, as was a visit (ok, two) to Raglan Artisan Bread for some of their delicious Rēwena bread – which went perfectly with the farm-fresh eggs and local milk supplied at The Studio. Wandering Raglan Town, I picked up other delights and trinkets from the stores and eateries, and enjoyed some treats and tranquillity along the banks of the Tawatahi River enjoying more visits from friendly birds.

But nature is really where it’s at in Raglan – with perfect examples of its beauty to be found at nearby Ngarunui Beach (perfect for sunsets and surfing), and the famous Wairēinga/Bridal Veil Falls – an easy drive and walk from The Studio. You can even escape down to some smaller (but no less calming) waterfalls right on the property, with streams converging in small falls, and local tuna (freshwater eels) popping by to say hello and see if you have anything to offer. I left The Studio feeling the chilled, grounded vibes one can only get from a place like Raglan, and can’t wait to return and experience it again sometime.
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Things We Did

  • Waterfall
  • Wildlife
  • Beach
  • Food & Drink
  • Experience
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    Wairēinga/Bridal Veil Falls are a perfect adventure. An easy 5–10 minute walk through beautiful bush to the top of the falls, you can then wind your way down the stairs a further 10 minutes, enjoying different vantage points along the way. Cascading in a perfect stream down a natural rock amphitheatre, these falls are well worth the climb back up....
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      Three Streams is home to plenty of friendly animals. Stop by and say hello to the cows (they will make you feel like a bit of a celebrity!), or hang about and the curious chickens are bound to pop by and say hello, even while you're in the bath!...
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        Ngarunui Beach is a beautiful surf beach, well known in Raglan and beyond for great breaks and beautiful scenery. Whether you've got your board in hand, plan on taking a dip, or just want to take a wander along the black sand and take it all in, it is well worth the visit....
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          Bread enthusiast? Then you won't want to miss Raglan Artisan Bread. I'm always on the search for good Rēwena bread (also known as Māori bread), and my search was over when I happened upon this delicious bakery. They also sell other tasty bites like frittatas and cake, and can't be missed for lovers of sourdough!...
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            Head down to Cliff Street and park up under the Pōhutukawa trees to enjoy views over the Tawatahi River, perhaps while enjoying a bite to eat from one of the many local eateries. Watch the seagulls swirl on the breeze, the tui call from the branches overhead, and the friendly sparrows might also pay you a close visit!...
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              Three Streams boasts its own collection of small waterfalls – a super quick and easy walk on the property from The Studio will bring you to the falls where the small clear blue streams converge. If you're lucky, you might also spot some of the resident tuna (freshwater eels). Bring some meat and eggs down with you to entice them out!...
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                Raglan has a lot of great fish-and-chip offerings, but with it' epic location down on the picturesque wharf overlooking the river, quirky interior, and delicious beer-battered fries – Raglan Fish is a firm favourite of mine....

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