Frequently asked questions

Is there a taxi service available for guests staying in and around Kaikoura?

Kaikoura does have a small fleet of taxi’s available from 10am - 10pm. We can also offer a shuttle service for your guests at an extra cost. 

Is there wifi onsite for guests to use?

Yes, we have wifi available to all guests across the entire property.

Is there cell reception in the area?

Yes. The whole property should have cell reception, we also have a landline available in emergencies.

How far from Kaikoura is Mangamaunu?

A 12 minute drive.

Where is the nearest airport for out-of-town guests?

A small airport can transport guests in little planes or helicopters just 20 minutes away from our property. Or Christchurch International Airport is a 2.5-hour drive, and Blenheim Airport, a 1.5-hour drive.

Can buses access the driveway?

Any vehicles above 8 metres long will not be able to manage our driveway.

Can helicopters land on or near the property?

Yes, we have a designated area at the back of the property perfect for helicopter pickups with views of the mountains. Ideal for photos.

What recreational activities are available nearby?

Kaikoura has some fantastic mountain and seaside walks. Bike trails, Kayaking with dolphins, learning to surf, whale watching, charter fishing, diving and plenty more adventure to experience. 

Are dogs allowed?

Unfortunately, we don’t allow dogs on this property. There are a couple of resident dogs which are available for pats if you so wish.

Are there seals on the beach nearby?

Yes. You usually see seals on Mangamaunu Beach in front of the property. Especially in Spring.

What kind of wildlife is at Mangamaunu retreat?

Mangamaunu is home to many beautiful birds and New Zealand fur seals can be spotted on the beach below. Kaikoura boasts diverse marine life, with many guests sighting passing dolphins or whales.

Is it safe to swim at the beach below?

It is safe on a calm day, but is best known as a surfing destination. We recommend taking care. There are also plenty of other wonderful safe swimming spots not far away that we can direct you to.

What is your cancellation policy?

Cancellations made 30 days before the check-in date will receive a full refund.

Cancellations made 15-29 days before the check-in date will receive a 50% refund excluding the first night's stay.

No refund of the first night.

No refunds will be given for cancellations made less than 15 days before the check-in date.

Cancellation policy applies even if you cancel for illness or disruptions caused by COVID-19.

What are your check in/check out times?

Guests can check in between 3pm and 6pm daily.

Checkout is at 10am.

Please discuss arrivals or departures outside of these times prior to your stay with us.

How many people does Mangamaunu Retreat sleep?

The retreat sleeps 8 guests in total.

Hapuku Studio can sleep 2, Oceanview suite can sleep 2, and Surfwatch House can sleep 4.

We also have ample space at the back of the property for camping, glamping, and caravans/motorhomes to accommodate wedding and event guests.

Is Mangamaunu Retreat child-friendly?

Children are welcome at the retreat. They can enjoy exploring the gardens, pathways, meeting friendly chickens, or collecting paua shells on the beach. However, please be aware that to reach the beach, you need to cross the busy State Highway 1. Children must always be accompanied by an adult when crossing.

What types of events do you host?

We host a range of events from weddings, surf and yoga retreats to corporate events. 

I see what looks like a chapel in the pictures, can we have our wedding ceremony there?

The chapel is not on our land and is situated on the local Maori marae, our neighbouring property, so unfortunately, this is not available for your wedding.  

Can we hold both the ceremony and reception at your venue?

Yes! There is plenty of space on the property to have both the ceremony and reception. 

What wedding services do you offer?

We provide a beautiful location, accommodation for up to 10 people, and a venue manager who will be available throughout the event to assist with any property needs. We can also provide you with a size-adjustable marquee, depending on group size. For more information, have a look at our wedding package or contact us to discuss creating your perfect day.

Do you have wet-weather locations if the weather is bad on my wedding day?

If the weather looks poor on your wedding day, we suggest hiring our marquee to host your wedding ceremony and/or reception. For enlopements and intimate weddings, the accommodation spaces can be used to host ceremonies or receptions - but we do have a strict shoes off inside policy, as heels can damage our flooring.

What does BYO mean?

As a BYO venue, you’re welcome to supply your own alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages for your event — and there’s no corkage fee. BYO is for the hosts only, so guests are not permitted to bring their own drinks.

Do we still have to pay for accommodation as part of our wedding package if we stay elsewhere?

Yes. All our wedding packages include the hire of accommodation. This is because the property is reserved exclusively for your wedding for up to three days (depending on the size of your celebration) to allow ample time for setup and pack-down. This ensures you have plenty of time before and after your special day to enjoy the retreat while ensuring you have complete privacy and exclusive use of the property.

Is there onsite parking for wedding and event guests?

Yes, we have plenty of on-site parking for up to 120 guests.

Is there a curfew for weddings and events?

No, we don’t have a curfew. However, the last call at the bar is at 1 am, and we ask that the music volume be reduced from midnight to be considerate of our neighbours.

If we want to book a private helicopter ride, can the helicopter pick us up from the property?

Yes, we have a designated pick-up and drop-off zone for Helicopters on the property.

Is there on-site access to power for vendors?

Yes, yet this does depend on vendors.  A generator would be recommended in case of property power overload.

What bathroom facilities are available for wedding guests?

The accommodation supplies four toilets upto 30 guests. If you are having a wedding with more than 30 guests, there will be more toilets provided, which will be included in the cost of the wedding venue hire. If guests are camping or glamping, there will be an extra cost for their toilet facilities.

Are there catering options available?

Yes. We are able to suggest various catering options that showcase wonderful local food to meet your needs.

Do your packages offer exclusive use of the property?

Yes. When booking your event with us you will have exclusive use of the gardens and front house.

Do you offer event coordination services?

No, but we can refer you to a great local wedding planner who will work closely with you to make your dream wedding a reality.

Can we bring our own vendors?

Yes. You can organise your own vendors.

Are there onsite camping options for tents and/or campervans?

Yes, for wedding and event guests we have a maintained area at the back of our property that is available for camping, glamping or motor camping options. This option will cost extra depending on the number of guests, as we will need to provide extra toilet facilities and lighting for these camping areas.

How do guests who are not staying on the property get home?

For guests not staying on the property, transport can be organised throughout the reception to get guests home safely. Our retreat is just a 12-minute drive from the Kaikoura town centre.

When is the best time of year to visit for surfing?

While the surfing is good year-round, Autumn and Winter are optimal.

What is the Mangamaunu surf break like?

Mangamaunu is a top-rated right-hand point break with a stone and boulder beach. The wave can peel off for several hundred meters, offering an incredible ride. It features three main hollow and fast sections known as Outsides, Middles, and Insides, with fatter sections in between. The break performs best with waves from 2 to 6 feet, but when it gets bigger, a rip can form, pulling you out of the lineup. This spot is ideal for intermediate to experienced riders

Can beginners surf at Mangamaunu?

Summer months can bring much calmer surf for beginners but being accompanied by an experienced guide is always recommended.

Are the other surf breaks nearby?

Yes, there are many amazing surf breaks nearby.