Split Apple Retreat

We have been here for all of 5 hours and already felt compelled to write a review because this place is, in a word, transcendent. Lee and Pen have an incredible meditative oasis located on perhaps the most picturesque slice of land the South Island has to offer, with Marcus and JJ bringing the most outstanding guest experience one could ever ask for. Truly an outstanding getaway, a wildly Elysian escape accented by delicious and thoughtfully prepared meals (by Pen herself!), chirping birdsong, and the subtle whisper of the waves down below. Absolute must stay.

In a class of its own. This beautiful, boutique property only has three rooms which are modern and well-appointed. The place is beautiful with breathtaking and unparalleled views of the bay and Abel Tasman. But that's not what makes Split Apple Retreat so special. The owners (Pen and Lee) and the staff (JJ, Markus, and others) create a warm, inviting and relaxing environment that invites you to relax, be present and really enjoy this experience. And while others have said this, allow me to repeat. The food that Pen prepares is phenomenal. Split Apple retreat is 10/10 at every measure. Well done team!

We had the most amazing experience staying at the Split Apple Retreat for a few days during our New Zealand exploration. From the warm welcoming of the entire house staff (special thanks to Lee & Pen, as well as Jj and Marcus !), to the delicious (and healthy !) food of Chef Pen, the jaw-dropping majesty of the location and Ocean views, and the beautiful bedroom we stayed in, everything was utterly perfect and definitely made turned our few days at the Split Apple Retreat into a magical and unforgettable experience.

How to even put this place into words... Pen and Lee have created something really special. Split Apple is completely unique and clearly a personal passion project. Staying here feels more like being a guest in a home rather than a hotel, thanks to the intimate setting and warm hospitality of Pen, Lee and their staff. The property is impeccably decorated and maintained (don't miss the gardens!) and Pen's food is outstanding. There are lots of lovely little touches, like your own personal slippers and popcorn and blankets brought to you in their private movie theater! The bathtub is also probably the largest I've ever seen. The sweeping views are so serene and beautiful, and the property offers a perfect launching point for trips into the park. I also appreciated that they were able to sneak me in for a last-minute massage after I arrived with a stiff neck. We stayed in several very nice places during our trip to New Zealand, but this was our favorite.

Split Apple Retreat is a little slice of heaven in the middle of the Abel Tasman. It is truly a special place of low key luxury and unpretentious perfection. Lee, Pen and their fabulous team are incredibly gracious hosts. They have created a sanctuary that is simultaneously serene and joyful. While the retreat can certainly be a destination on its own, we chose to explore the area by boating in Abel Tasman and biking through the beautiful countryside visiting local wineries. In the morning and evening, we relished every morsel of Pen’s phenomenal cooking. Her meals are stunning, deliciously creative and wonderfully healthy. Marcus and Lee are incredibly knowledgeable about wine and expertly paired excellent wines from the cellar with all of the meals. In addition to being a model host, Lee generously shared much of his inspiring wellness (and poker:)) knowledge throughout our stay. The rooms are perfection with spectacular views and private gardens. We felt like family from the minute JJ welcomed us across the threshold, and like family, instead of saying “goodbye" when it was time to leave, we said, “see you again soon”.

Wow, what a magical place! We only had two nights there, and honestly, that just wasn’t enough. This spot has so much to offer! Even after such a short stay, we left feeling totally refreshed and inspired to amp up our health game—can’t wait to try out new healthy recipes at home! Lee and Pen have poured so much love, mindfulness, and expertise into every detail. From the mind-blowing views right from the comfy bed to the delicious anti-inflammatory meals, everything was spot on. The saltwater pool was super refreshing, and the meditation room, equipped with special wave technology, made slipping into a meditative state a breeze. But honestly, it’s Lee and Pen who make this place extra special. Staying with them felt like hanging out with old friends—you know, the kind you can chat with all night long. Pen whipped up amazing breakfasts and dinners daily in her kitchen, and Dr. Lee shared his wisdom on functional medicine, guiding us on our healing journey. Our time there was truly transformative, and we can’t wait to go back and dive even deeper into the serenity and wellness they offer.

Stayed with Penn and Lee for 4 nights in January of 2024 and it was an impeccable stay! The fabulous and healthy cooking of Penn for every meal with the amazing view of the bay never disappointed. And you could always go to Lee for advice on health and wellness. Would definitely recommend the Split Apple Retreat if you’re looking for a welcoming, warm and calm stay in New Zealand.

We just returned from a spectacular three week trip to New Zealand and one of the top highlights of our visit was our stay at Split Apple Retreat. It combines the best of a high end resort with a wellness retreat - healthy culinary masterpieces, world class views and a staff led by Lee and Penn who are incredibly warm and welcoming. The property's location allows you to explore Abel Tasman Park from a boat just below the property, some of the charming area towns like Nelson that have interesting art galleries and wineries and finish your day eating on the property's balcony overlooking the sea. And there are cool features that include an infrared spa, steam room and Japanese tub. Lee is also a physician whose depth of knowledgeable of holistic therapies and the impact of food is inspiring. Penn is the chef and she delivers gorgeous, gourment plates. We loved our stay, found it inspiring and highly recommend it.