One of Central Otago’s most significant historic properties will officially reopen its doors in September 2026.
Earnscleugh Castle is on the brink of a luxurious new chapter following a painstaking restoration that set owners Ryan Sanders and Marco Creemers back NZ $11 million and more than five years.
Built in the 1920s, the palatial New Zealand property has been transformed into a luxury bed and breakfast, offering nine guest suites and rooms across the main castle and restored Coach House.
The restoration featured on the opening episode of Grand Designs New Zealand Season 10 last month with a deep dive into the process of honouring Earnscleugh Castle’s heritage while introducing modern amenities.
The iconic Jacobethan property will also be the exclusive home of Sanctum 7, a seven-day premium wellness retreat launching in November 2026.
Founder of Sanctum 7, Ryan Sanders said that the property provides the ideal backdrop for wellness and restoration.
“Earnscleugh Castle has always been about grandeur, elegance and a deep sense of sanctuary,” he said.
“Creating Sanctum7 is the culmination of everything I’ve learned works for me personally – the practices that truly help me restore balance, re-centre, and feel like myself again. Designed for busy professionals and devoted parents who rarely get time to put themselves first, Sanctum7 is a reminder that true nurture isn’t selfish – it’s essential.”
Each Sanctum 7 retreat is limited to just 12 guests and features personalised wellness protocols like pre-retreat functional testing, tailored nutrition programmes, IV drips, breathwork, ice baths, yoga, sound healing and daily nature immersion on the estate’s private grounds.
