10 | Sustainability key at luxury retreat Set against a backdrop of farmland, vineyards, and orchards, the property offers eight to nine bedrooms, each with its own ensuite bathroom. REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT Hawke’s Bay Business Awards - Lawn Road Retreat T T Karen Phelps A luxurious rural property in Hastings is quietly making its mark in the corporate retreat sector, offering a blend of business facilities and leisure amenities in the heart of Hawke’s Bay’s wine country. Lawn Road Retreat is owned and operated by Pen and James Cropper and the pair offers a range of facilities and activities to make corporate gatherings effective work and team-building experiences. The business was a finalist in the 2024 Pan Pac Hawke’s Bay Business Awards in the excellence in sustainability section. “We aim to provide the perfect environment for people to get down to business and achieve wonderful outcomes, while ensuring our own business is operated sustainably,” says Pen. At the heart of its operations is the Tiaki Promise, which encompasses care for people, place and culture. As tangible examples the retreat uses locally sourced, natural cleaning products in refillable containers and provides comprehensive recycling facilities. “We are committed to sustainable tourism and actively work towards sustainability in all of our operations,” explains Pen. “We share the vision of the NZ Tourism Industry Association for New Zealand to be a world leader in sustainable tourism.” Sustainability is combined with modernity at Lawn Road Retreat. The property boasts a modern meeting space equipped with a 75-inch smart TV and flexible seating arrangements that can accommodate up to 18 people. An adjacent breakout room, complete with tea- and coffee-making facilities, ensures seamless transitions between working sessions. Lawn Road Retreat also offers multiple additional breakout spaces, including lounges, an office booth, and several outdoor seating areas, facilitating smaller group discussions and informal networking opportunities. The property has ultra-fast broadband to support all digital work requirements. Because the meeting room is separate from the rest of the house, the business side of a stay can be conducted completely independently of leisure activities, says Pen. Set against a backdrop of farmland, vineyards, and orchards, the property offers eight to nine bedrooms, each with its own ensuite bathroom. Pen says that accessibility has been carefully considered in the property’s design, with ramps ensuring easy access to all downstairs living areas and an accessible bathroom and bedroom available. The retreat’s entertainment systems reflect its premium positioning, with the SONOS music system installed throughout all living areas, including the covered deck. Multiple smart TVs are positioned in the main living areas and selected bedrooms. Pen says two, fully equipped kitchens at Lawn Road Retreat feature multiple ovens, dishwashers, and refrigerators, making catering for large groups effortless. The retreat maintains relationships with several well-regarded local caterers and chefs, who can be arranged to cook on-site during stays. A distinguishing feature of the retreat is its extensive range of team-building activities. The property offers a tennis court with night lighting, croquet court, outdoor table tennis, petanque, volleyball, and various lawn games including cornhole and giant jenga. A salt-water swimming pool and a cedar hot tub that seats up to 16 people provide additional relaxation options. Pen says the retreat’s location proves particularly advantageous for corporate gatherings. Situated at an equal distance from Hastings, Havelock North, and Napier, it’s just 20 minutes from the airport. The property’s proximity to the renowned Hawke’’s Bay Cycle Trail (a five-minute cycle away) and prestigious wineries including Black Barn, Craggy Range, and Elephant Hill offers numerous options for off-site activities. Pen says the property’s Qualmark accreditation scoring 4.5 out of 5 stars and just being accredited with a Gold award for sustainable tourism, underscores its commitment to delivering exceptional visitor experiences. She says this independent validation particularly appeals to corporate clients seeking assurance of quality standards. While Lawn Road Retreat has positioned itself as a premier destination for corporate gatherings, it also has strong appeal as luxury accommodation for family reunions and special occasions. Pen and James live adjacent to the retreat in a separate dwelling, providing on-hand assistance when needed while ensuring guest privacy is maintained and it is arguably their personal touch that truly sets Lawn Road Retreat apart. Supporting the success of Lawn Road Retreat and tourism in Hawke's Bay. 0800 84 74 88 | napiernz.com NAPIER NEW BUILDS - ALTERAT IONS - RENOVAT IONS We build new homes and light commercial structures, and complete renovations and home and office alterations. From standard construction to architecturally designed homes, we thrive on challenging, unique builds that require the finest craftsmanship. 021 142 9237 ben@313construction.nz 313construction.co.nz
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