This bed and breakfast is certainly not your average B & B that kiwi travellers tend to shun, but it is the sort of genuine care and attention to detail that we should treat ourselves to on special occasions- or sometimes just for the hell of it. While John is undoubtedly busy in the background Helen is very much the... More

This is our second stay at Rippenvale Retreat after a short one night stay four years ago. We can not speak more favourably of the hosts at Rippenvale, Helen cooks the most amazing breakfasts which are reason enough to return time after time, but the friendly advice about the area and other personal touches mean that we would be unlikely... More

Fantastic service and the food was equally fantastic. We love good food and wine. My husband was a chef for many years in London and cooked for 5 star restaurants. He was loving the breakfast and we both thought it was one of the best breakfasts we have ever had on holiday. Loved the welcoming chocolate brownie and 6 pm... More

What a delight - firstly greeted by our wonderful hostess Helen Beattie who escorted us to our beautiful garden suite equipped for every conceivable need. Drinks and hors d'ouvres in the garden and breakfast the absolute highlight with scrumptious home made muesli, fruit compote and bread. John Beattie escorted us on a one day 4 WD experience into the Clarence... More

From the moment you arrive at Rippinvale, you know that it is something special. From the wonderful greeting to the heartfelt goodbye, this B&B is pure perfection. The service is impeccable with fantasic attention to detail, although the hosts make sure you have everything you need. The breakfast was to die for (as was the brownie that was waiting for... More

We had the most amazing experience when we stayed at ''Rippenvale'' firstly there was the most warmest of welcomes that anyone could wish for from both Helen, John and Lilly the most adorable burmese cat. This little gem in the crown of New Zealand is something so special that we would not want anyone to miss out on it. The... More

When I stay in these boutique bed and breakfast locations, which are almost unique to New Zealand, I judge them on three criteria. The layout out of the property and the rooms sense of specialness. The passion of our hosts for offering hospitality. The quality of the breakfasts. In all three regards Rippinvale retreat delivers I felt at home, welcomed... More

We stayed at Rippenvale for two nights as our Honeymoon to Hanmer Springs. Helen and John were the perfect hosts, friendly but not hovering as some other B&B hosts do, and the accommodation was wonderful! Bed was super comfy, spa/jacuzzi was excellent and the grounds imaculate. The personalised note upon arrival was also a lovely touch. We can't wait to... More

We had a perfect weekend away in Hanmer Springs, staying at Rippinvale Retreat. Being a little bit out of the township, it felt almost secluded and very romantic, and Helen and John were fantastic hosts. The care and attention to detail was spot on and the breakfast was truely spectacular. Thank you so very much for such a memorable weekend,... More