Tēnā koutou katoa
(Thank you to you all)
This year, we’re celebrating a truly special milestone at Pihopa Retreat — the main homestead turns 100.
Built in 1925, this gracious villa has stood at the heart of the estate for a century, offering timeless beauty and a sense of peace that’s felt the moment you arrive. But the story of Pihopa stretches back even further.
Before the current homestead was built, an earlier wooden residence stood proudly on the same site — opened in 1868 as the official home of the Anglican Bishop of Nelson. It wasn’t just a residence; it was also home to a theological college and became a central hub for spiritual life and community connection in the region. After more than 50 years of service, the original building was removed in 1924 due to disrepair.
Since 1925, six bishops have called the current homestead home, each one adding to its rich legacy and helping shape the story of this remarkable place.
In 2023, we completed a full renovation of the homestead and the property, breathing fresh life into its historic bones while carefully preserving its architectural character, every element has been lovingly restored — ensuring that the homestead can continue to welcome guests for another hundred years to come.
As we mark its centenary, we feel incredibly honoured to be the current kaitiaki (caretakers) of this historic property. It’s more than just a building — it’s the heart and soul of Pihopa Retreat, a place where stories live on and where new memories are made every day.
We’ll be celebrating throughout the year and would love for you to be a part of it.
Ngā mihi nui
The Pihopa Retreat Team