Rest Reset Reconnect

 Okuta Bay (Mine Bay) is a place where nature invites you to slow down, explore and experience Lake Taupō from a different perspective. It feels tucked away from the everyday. There is no public road access to the bay —  guests can reach the water in just five minutes via the private road and bush trail through The Point, while others can only arrive by boat. 

The character of the bay changes with the weather, seasons and time of day. On a still morning, the water can be glassy and calm; on warm summer weekends and evenings, local boats and visitors bring the bay to life. Tour boats also pass through on their way to the Ngātoroirangi Māori Carvings.

Follow the bush trail along the bay to nearby beaches, perfect for a swim, a little sunbathing or a lakeside picnic. 

Okuta Bay is also home to the iconic Ngātoroirangi Māori Carvings, towering 14 metres above the water on a cliff face. These extraordinary contemporary artworks are among New Zealand's most celebrated cultural landmarks. Learn more about the story behind the Ngātoroirangi Māori Carvings.

One of the greatest luxuries at Okuta Bay Retreat is the opportunity to slow down and reconnect with nature. The retreat is a peaceful lakeside sanctuary within the private residential estate, surrounded by native bush and beautiful gardens, with walking trails winding through the estate.

Wander the trails or simply sit quietly and listen to the birdsong. As evening falls, the light changes across the lake and the night sky reveals a spectacular display of stars, inviting you to pause and simply enjoy the moment.

Many of our guests arrive with plans to explore the Taupō region, only to find themselves reluctant to leave the tranquillity of the Retreat. They frequently tell us that some of their favourite moments were spent right here — watching the lake, listening to the birds and simply reconnecting with nature. That's why we often recommend adding an extra night — to linger a little longer, soak up the surroundings, and simply reconnect. 

 Breakfast at Okuta Bay Retreat is one of the quiet pleasures of staying here — homemade, generous and created with a genuine love of good food. Each morning, a freshly prepared breakfast is delivered to your suite, allowing you to ease into the day slowly and comfortably. There's no need to dress or head downstairs; instead, you can savour breakfast on your private balcony, surrounded by native bush filled with birdsong.

Whenever the garden is in season, fresh produce is gathered to create nourishing, flavourful dishes that reflect Jane's passion for cooking and sharing good food with others. Homemade sourdough and home-baked treats are part of the breakfast experience, with guests often mentioning the baking as a highlight of their stay. Dietary needs are happily catered for, ensuring every guest feels welcomed and cared for.

Whether you're waking slowly after a peaceful night's sleep or preparing for a day of exploring Lake Taupō, breakfast at Okuta Bay Retreat is designed to make your morning feel unhurried, comfortable and personal. It's simply good food, made from scratch and shared with our guests — enjoyed in the comfort and privacy of your own space.