Long regarded as one of the world’s most revered and inspirational luxury accommodations, Huka Lodge is set among established gardens along the banks of the surging Waikato River near Lake Taupō on New Zealand’s North Island.

With humble beginnings nearly a century ago as a fishermen’s camp made famous for its trout-rich waters and featuring white canvas tents along the river’s edge, today Huka Lodge has secured its place as one of the country’s oldest and celebrated luxury lodge with an impressive heritage, welcoming some of the world’s most influential guests to the region.

Bordered by rolling green lawns along the banks of the Waikato River and just upstream from the dramatic Huka Falls, Huka Lodge is regarded as the founder of luxury lodges. Styled in the manner of a grand estate, Huka comprises a central lodge with restaurant and terraces surrounded by verdant established gardens studded with exclusive dining nooks.

Fine dining champions premium local produce complemented by a formidable list of the world’s finest wines. Twenty opulent guest suites and two private Owners’ Residences invite with king beds and palatial baths and open to mesmerising views of the ever-changing waterway.

A stay with Baillie Lodges is to experience the luxury of travel. Each Baillie property is located in an extraordinary natural destination, with a personal experience of its culture and history, its art and natural heritage and local food and wine sourced from regional producers.

Together, the luxury lodges are timeless in design, with myriad thoughtful details combining to create a genuinely warm welcome, a generosity of spirit. Guest itineraries are designed to offer the most from each stay, creating a personal, lasting connection with the destination.

THE HISTORY
In 1924 Irishman Alan Pye founded Huka Lodge as a fishermen’s camp with a gathering of white canvas tents lining the banks of the trout-rich Waikato River. Nearly a century later, Huka Lodge is one of the world’s most celebrated luxury lodges, welcoming distinguished guests and a reputation for providing outstanding hospitality in an idyllic setting.

TIMELESS DESIGN
In 1984, Alex van Heeren purchased Huka Lodge and engaged New Zealand-based designer Virginia Fisher to create the opulent interior style for the property’s main lodge and guest suites and to complement its extraordinary natural location.

Outside, Suzanne Turley was engaged as the property’s landscape designer, creating gardens to complement both the lodge’s design and the natural environment.

GUEST LIST
The Huka Lodge guest list is a veritable who’s who of the past century’s best–known celebrities and world-recognised figures, while it‘s steadfastly on the must-do list for many future guests.

Her Royal Highness Queen Elizabeth II has famously visited Huka Lodge with its grounds and surrounds reminiscent of Scotland four times over the course of her reign – often in the company of her late husband the Duke of Edinburgh – where the pair had a preferred, special seat for dining.

ACCOMMODATION
Twenty Junior Lodge guest suites and two exclusive multi-bedroom owners’ residences, the Alan Pye and Alex van Heeren Cottages, dot the 17-acre Huka Lodge parkland, each privately set and opening onto verdant views of the gardens and beyond to the flowing, deep turquoise Waikato River.

Ideal for house parties, the two owners’ cottages are designed to provide the ultimate Huka Lodge hospitality experience. The Alex van Heeren Cottage, and its companion the Alan Pye Cottage are both perfect venues for exclusive gatherings for family and friends. Here, guests enjoy the best of both worlds: a private self-contained residence with access to all the Huka Lodge luxuries.

ALEX VAN HEEREN COTTAGE
Set on a sunny private bluff along the banks of the Waikato River, the four-bedroom Alex van Heeren Cottage offers a secluded retreat with views downstream towards the thundering Huka Falls.

Generous lounging and dining rooms open on both sides with floor-to-ceiling glass doors onto the terrace and private garden courtyard, creating a large, open plan in and outdoor living area.

High ceilings and an open fireplace complement generous lounges and large dining table, perfect for occasions with family and friends. Outside, a private courtyard is warmed by fireplace, and the river-facing terrace is a private suntrap, home also to a plunge pool and spa.

Four bedrooms each with kings bed, premium linens, fireplace and ensuite bathroom make the Alex van Heeren Cottage the ultimate location for a get together with family and friends.

Two bedrooms open to views of the Waikato River as it descends towards the Huka Falls, and two open to the private courtyard. Each bedroom features a fireplace, dressing room and opulent ensuite bathroom with deep baths and premium spa amenities.

JUNIOR LODGE SUITE
True retreats in every sense, the Junior Lodge Suites at Huka Lodge each open on to the Waikato River and are designed to offer personalised luxury and a harmonious flow with the spectacular natural landscape outside.

Designed to welcome the natural beauty of the landscape inside, the open-plan lounge offers guests a serene place to contemplate the ever-changing waterway, with French doors opening onto outdoor terraces and rolling green lawns. Guests are spellbound by views of the deep, hypnotic waters of the Waikato River beyond.

DINING
Dining at Huka Lodge is at the heart of the tradition of generous hospitality for which the lodge is world-renowned. Showcasing New Zealand’s finest, often sustainably produced ingredients and complemented by a magnificent selection of wine, the menus at Huka Lodge are daily changing and reflect the seasons and the environment outdoors.

Dining can be enjoyed in the sumptuous surrounds of the main lodge or experienced in one of the lodges unique dining locations dotted around the property, from the Wine Cellar to the Orchard or Jetty Pavilion.

BREAKFAST
A hearty country-style breakfast set up in the main lodge at Huka is a wonderful start to the day, whether it’s planned as full of adventures or for relaxing in the gardens by the Waikato River.

Guests can look forward to fresh eggs, free range bacon and local tomatoes, mushrooms and greens, along with fresh juices, steaming pots of loose-leaf tea and espresso coffee.

LUNCH
A light à la carte lunch menu is available at Huka Lodge and may be enjoyed fireside in the main lodge or on the sun-drenched terrace overlooking the gardens and Waikato River. Local organic and free-range produce including chicken and beef are complemented by fresh greens, lodge baked bread and fine wines.

DINNER
When Chef Paul Froggatt took the helm in the kitchen at Huka Lodge in 2013, he brought a classical European influence from years of training and experience, with foundations steeped in traditional, fine hospitality.

Dinner starts with a relaxed drink in the lounge, and proceeds to a finely balanced five-course menu bringing fresh local flavours to the plate. Guests can look forward to regional delights like Te Matuku oysters, Matangi Beef, Mount Cook Alpine Salmon and Southland lamb on the daily-changing menu.

A TOAST TO TAUPO
Begin the day with an espresso or pot of expertly brewed leaf tea, or enjoy fresh drinking water drawn from the Waikato River. As the day progresses, world class wines, premium spirits and local beers are on offer, and as the dusk draws in and fires are lit French Champagne or a fine whiskey are enjoyed in traditional lodging style.

BAR SELECTION
The bar at Huka Lodge is stocked with premium spirits – many of them locally distilled small-batch labels – perfect for the base of a range of cocktails and mixed drinks. A fresh gin and tonic marks the start of an enjoyable evening, while a fine scotch served over ice may be best enjoyed fireside.

WINE CELLAR
A vast underground labyrinth housing some 4500 bottles of wine, the Wine Cellar at Huka Lodge is an attraction in itself, prompting some dedicated time to peruse its collection of fine vintages. The wine cellar is also a wonderful venue for private or special occasion dinners for two or up to ten guests.

DIGESTIFS
After a delicately balanced five-course dinner, many guests retire to the bar or lounge to enjoy a digestif or nightcap. The friendly team at the bar is always ready to help with a drink, with a selection of premium liqueurs, spirits and hot beverages available.

THE CHEF
The Huka Lodge dining experience is orchestrated by Executive Chef Paul Froggatt, who has been at the helm of the culinary team at the luxury lodge since 2013.

A note visible to all who enter the kitchen explains his mantra: “The tradition is a perpetual motion. It advances, it changes, it lives”. For nearly a century, the kitchen has delighted guests who first came to catch trout in the luminescent blue-green Waikato River.

Guests now come from around the world to experience the culinary legacy led by Chef Froggatt. With his classical European training, the UK-born connoisseur brings a refreshing blend of tradition and locally produced organic, free-range, natural ingredients to its daily-changing menus.

Paul chooses to work with premium New Zealand producers who share the Huka Lodge commitment to sustainability.

EXPERIENCES & ACTIVITIES
A stay in the spectacular parklike surrounds of Huka Lodge at Taupō, places guests at the doorstep to a host of wonderful experiences of the destination, from the traditional fly fishing on the banks of the Waikato River to hiking, luxury cruising, golfing and more.

Of course, the luxurious setting at Huka Lodge invites leisurely pursuits onsite, including tennis, pétanque and croquet, while the option to read a book on the riverbank, wander the garden paths or enjoy a drink on the terrace are equally appealing.

AQUATIC ADVENTURES
These aquatic activities are considered to be must-dos during your stay. From fly fishing to exhilarating jet boating or white water rafting, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

FLY FISHING
The skilled and meditative pastime of fly fishing from the banks or shallows of a deep turquoise river is one of New Zealand’s most enduring images.

Huka Lodge has its very foundations in the sport of fly fishing, as the trout-rich Waikato River which flows alongside the property was the original motivation for Alan Pye to set up a series of white canvas tents as a well-positioned fishermen’s camp.

As word of the bountiful properties of the river spread, visitors came to the remote outpost from around the world to cast their lines and try for a bite. Today, many visitors to Taupō are keen to try their hand at the traditional sport.

The Taupō region is New Zealand’s most popular trout fishing region and is renowned as home to some of the world’s best fly fishing rivers. The Waitahanui, Hinemaiaia and Tongariro rivers are great attractions, while the surrounding lush green scenery makes it a peaceful – if challenging – pastime for anglers of all ages and stages.

The cooler months from May to September are popular for spawning Rainbow and Brown trout, which run up the rivers from Lake Taupō. For guests at Huka Lodge, a fly fishing adventure may be a half or full day experience, in the company of a personal fishing guide.

Guides provide pick up and drop off, transfer to the day’s chosen fishing location as well as top quality rods, reels, waders and flies. Fly fishing casting lessons are also available on the Huka Lodge lawns with a dedicated fly fishing instructor.

WHITE WATER RAFTING
Guests at Huka Lodge can embark on a half or full day’s adrenaline-fuelled adventure on a white water rafting tour in some of Taupō’s most thrilling rivers. New Zealand is renowned for its surging, powerful rivers banked by lush green wilderness, making them ideal for white water rafting adventures for thrill-seekers of all levels.

The nearby Tongariro River provides pristine, clear waters and a ride through native flora alongside dramatic volcanic cliffs. Rafters see abundant wildlife including lots of trout a well as the endangered native whio whio or blue duck.

There’s an option to walk up a side stream to jump off the hidden Puketarata waterfall into the river below. Professional river guides will lead the adventure and provide transfers as well as top-quality river apparel including a wetsuit, fleece sweater, life vest, swimming shoes and a helmet.

Private tours are also available on request and include a gourmet Huka Lodge picnic hamper. For more experienced or courageous rafters, the Tutea Falls on the Kaituna (Okere) River near Rotorua is the world’s highest commercially rafted waterfall, dropping an almighty seven metres.

There is plenty of time to build anticipation and practice newly acquired skills in the rapids with two smaller waterfalls to descend before the big drop.

There’s a reasonably high chance of the boat flipping at the base of the waterfall, however the rapids are followed by calm water, so there is ample time to right the boat and get all the rafters back in! Safety is paramount and ensured by expert guides. This tour is best suited to active travellers 13 years and over.

JET BOATING 
Jet boating from Huka Lodge is available in two thrilling locations: the quick Huka Falls Jet and the larger, longer Falls Jet run. The 30-minute adrenalin-filled Huka Falls trip skims along the Waikato River daringly close to cliffs at a breath-taking 80km per hour.

A series of daredevil style turns and 360º spins await on the way to the Aratiatia Dam and back to the base of the spectacular Huka Falls. Safety is paramount, equipment including life jackets is provided and the jet boat drivers are certified professionals.

The Rapids Jet boats the biggest and longest rapids in the region, spilling from the Aratiatia Dam. The jetboat shoots through narrow canyons, spinning on crystal clear waters and surfing the pressure waves of the awesome Nga Awapurua Rapids.

The riverbanks are lined with fantastic native bush and steaming hot springs, plus there’s always a chance of spotting a trout! Equipment including life jackets and spray jackets is provided.

LUXURY CRUISING 
A gentle and stylish way to experience the scenic beauty of Lake Taupō, a luxury cruise takes in magnificent lake and mountain views, offers an up-close encounter with the giant Ngatoroirangi Mine Bay Māori rock carvings, provides gourmet lunch and beverages and an option to kayak or try your hand at fishing for trout along the way.

Lake Taupō’s size – roughly the same area as Singapore – and picturesque beaches give the appearance of an inland ocean. Scenic lake cruises and fishing adventures are available for Huka Lodge guests with premium Taupō operators year–round.

Most Taupō lake fishing takes the form of trolling using either lures or flies and complements the peaceful, quiet vibe on the lake’s still waters.

A half-day lake cruise includes an up-close visit with the giant Ngatoroirangi Mine Bay Māori rock carvings. Carved by artist Matahi Brightwell and towering some 14 metres above water level, the carvings are hailed as New Zealand’s most extraordinary contemporary Māori artworks.

On a clear day the majestic volcanoes of Mounts Ruapehu, Ngāuruhoe and Tongariro can be spotted on the horizon at the lake’s southern end. The cruise includes lunch, wine and beverages and all fishing equipment including licences, while a kayaks are available to rent for an additional way to explore the western bays’ inlets.

LAND EXPEDITIONS 
These land-based activities are the essentials during a stay in Taupō. From cultural discoveries, a round of golf or unforgettable hiking expeditions, the choices are endless.

CULTURAL EXPERIENCE 
According to Māori legend, Lake Taupō is the beating heart of the North Island. The chance to experience Taupō in the company of a Māori tribesperson is a rare and unforgettable privilege.

Spend a half day or full day with Tom Loughlin, a descendant from Ngati Tuwharetoa, a local Māori tribe steeped in tradition and history. From arts, flora, fauna and food, the bespoke Ata Mai tour explores sacred practices passed down through generations and visits culturally significant tribal locations.

The chance to meet a respected Māori elder is an unforgettable experience. Gain insight into the pre-European settlement of Aotearoa and the importance of Taupō as the North Island’s sacred heart. Both half day and full day tours include private transfers to and from Huka Lodge.

FORMULA CHALLENGE
Conveniently located just a short drive from Huka Lodge, the Bruce McLaren Motorsport Park Taupō’s Motorsport Park is billed as New Zealand’s premier motorsport and driver training facility.

The park includes four racetrack configurations and offers visitors the rare and thrilling chance to make a lap in a Formula Challenge racing car. The course is designed to suit the complete novice or the experienced road car driver, and no prior experience is necessary.

The Formula Challenge experience includes a classroom-style introduction class with a Motorsport New Zealand-qualified driving instructor as well as a familiarisation test run around the track.

Drivers can choose from a single seater Formula Challenge race car, a Holden or Ford V8 race car. A certificate of achievement, photograph and race data are presented on completion of the run.

GOLF
Just minutes’ drive from Huka Lodge are two world class golf courses available to guests, the Wairakei International Golf Course and Sanctuary and the Kinloch Signature Golf Course.

Just five minutes’ drive from Huka Lodge the Wairakei International Golf Course sprawls across 450 acres of lush rolling countryside and was designed to meet rigorous world-class championship competition standards.

A flora and fauna sanctuary lies adjacent to the golf course creating a natural place of exceptional beauty offering golfers an opportunity to play 18 holes while listening to a soundtrack of birdsong, meandering streams and waterfalls. Dress codes and green fees apply.

Around 20 minutes’ drive from Huka Lodge is Kinloch Signature Golf Course, New Zealand’s only course designed by Jack Nicklaus. Voted one of the Top 10 new golf courses in the world for 2007 by the prestigious U.S. Travel and Leisure Golf Magazine, Kinloch was the only course outside of North America to be included.

The challenging course rambles across a dramatically undulating landscape punctuated by exposed rock, with contoured fairways specially conditioned for challenging ground play. Dress codes and green fees apply for golfing experiences.

HIKING
Taupō’s varied natural landscape presents boundless opportunities for walking and hiking, either on a guided or self-guided basis. At Huka Lodge, guests can explore the tree-lined pathways that lead through the verdant gardens, follow the Spa Park walk to Huka Falls or take on the Kawakawa Bay to Kinloch hike and cruise or the full-day hike to the Tongariro Alpine Crossing.

This five-hour round trip includes a luxury cruise and hike. Ideal for travellers with medium to high fitness, the personally guided hike starts with a pickup at Huka Lodge for transfer to the small lakeside village of Kinloch.

A two-hour guided hike leads through lush green wilderness to a lookout offering panoramic views over the Western Bays of Lake Taupō. From here, the trail leads down towards the remote and secluded Kawakawa Bay, accessible only by boat or on foot.

Here, a vessel awaits for a cruise around Lake Taupō with a delicious lunch served onboard. Fishing, lunch, fishing licences and four-wheel drive transfer to Kinloch are all included.

Regarded as one of New Zealand’s best day hikes, the Tongarino Alpine Crossing offers an unforgettable encounter with native flora and fauna and may be taken on a guided or self-guided basis.

Taking between seven and nine hours – and around 18.5km (11.5 miles) each way, the hike traverses the World Heritage-listed Tongariro National Park, New Zealand’s oldest and home to some of the most scenic and volcanically active places in the country.

The track winds up the Mangatepopo Valley to the saddle between Mt. Tongariro and Mt. Ngāuruhoe. It then climbs to the Red Crater before dropping down to the vivid Emerald Lakes. After passing the Blue Lake, the track cuts around the northern slope of Mt. Tongariro and descends in a zigzag to the Ketetahi hut.

Hiking in Taupō requires good walking boots, a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen, camera, waterproof jacket and weather-appropriate clothing. Note, from June 1 – October 15, winter conditions descend on the Tongariro Crossing and ice axes and crampons are required.

DISCOVER ROTORUA
The day starts with a pickup at the lodge and private vehicle transfer to Rotorua. A 90-minute mountain biking tour through the Whakarewarewa Forest takes on a selection of the 150km purpose-designed mountain bike trails, with a range of levels to suit every rider.

Next, the tour continues by road to Okawa Bay for a thrilling 45-minute rafting trip down the Kaituna River. Home to one of the world’s highest commercially rated waterfall, Tutea falls some seven metres and provides an exhilarating white water adventure.

Note, this adventure is only available for children 13 years or older when accompanied by an adult. The vehicle then continues on a short journey to Lake Rotoiti, to meet a 53ft. luxury catamaran for lunch and a private charter.

A gourmet barbecue lunch is served on deck while sailing the lake’s clean, clear waters. In the late afternoon, soak in the therapeutic geothermal pools accessible only by boat, before returning to the lodge by road. The Rotorua tour can be taken on a full or half-day basis, and includes personal guide, private vehicle transfers, use of all equipment, lunch and refreshments.

HELI EXPERIENCE
An aerial tour of the North Island’s spectacular heartland makes a stay at Huka Lodge truly unforgettable. The lodge offers half or full-day heli adventures taking in Taupō’s natural attractions from on high.

MINI HUKA EXPERIENCE
This half-day heli and cruise adventure combines the best of Taupō from the air and on Lake Taupō’s clear, calm waters. The adventure begins with a private vehicle transfer from Huka Lodge to Taupō Boat Harbour, and joins a private launch for three hours of cruising and trout fishing on beautiful Lake Taupō.

Join a private transfer to a waiting helicopter for the next leg of this tour, taking in Taupō’s natural attractions from on high. Fly over Mt. Tauhara and enjoy a bird’s-eye-view of the Wairakei Geothermal Terraces, where silica-enriched water cascades over terraces from the geyser to the blue pools below.

Silica deposits have formed astounding terraces reminiscent of the world-renowned Pink and White Terraces of Tarawera. From the helicopter cockpit enjoy aerial views of the Craters of the Moon, the northern shores of Lake Taupō and the magnificent Ngatoroirangi Mine Bay Māori rock carvings. The flight returns over the mighty Huka Falls before landing on the lawn at Huka Lodge.

ULTIMATE HUKA EXPERIENCE 
The Ultimate Huka Experience flies north or south from Huka Lodge to take in spectacular natural scenery from an aerial perspective. A full day tour with a six-to-seven-hour duration, the Ultimate Huka Experience may fly south from Huka Lodge to the Kaimanawa Range wilderness, with possible sightings of wild horses and Red or Sika deer.

The heli lands next to the surging Rangitikei River for a chance to view trophy-sized Rainbow trout. Return to Lake Taupō along mountain ranges seething with volcanic activity and over the vast craters of the Tongariro National Park.

Alternatively, a northerly flight takes in the thundering Huka Falls and follows the Waikato River to the Wai-O-Tapu and Waimangu geothermal regions. Take a daring flight over the dormant volcanic cone of Mt. Tarawera, which last erupted in 1886.

Return to Lake Taupō via some of the spectacularly lush farm and forest lands of central North Island. After an eighty-minute heli flight, meet a luxury cruise in a remote bay on Lake Taupō. Enjoy a delicious buffet lunch and cruise back to the Taupō Marina, with the chance to try trout fishing along the way.

LODGE ACTIVITIES
Huka Lodge offers a selection of private beauty and relaxation treatments provided by qualified therapists in-suite. Private tennis and yoga tuition may also be arranged. Please note, bookings are subject to availability and prices and treatments may vary.

TENNIS
Located at the heart of lodge and enclosed by a towering green cypress hedge more than 35 years old, the tennis court is a peaceful setting to focus on the game or embrace a relaxing social contest. The rarefied ‘green room’ surrounds at Huka Lodge inspire a friendly – or competitive – game of lawn tennis.

Enveloped in a tall green cypress hedge, an all-weather tennis court is available for a casual game of tennis for guests at Huka Lodge. Rackets and balls are provided. Expert tuition is available for those after a refresher or who’d like to work on their game (additional charge applies).

BEAUTY & WELLNESS
A range of facial therapies employs the organic, plant-based Janesce skincare range to offer a rejuvenating, reinvigorating treatment using aromatic oils and healing masks as well as relaxing massage techniques. A green peel treatment aligns with Taupō’s lush green surrounds and deep, rolling river.

A series of body massages is also on offer, designed to relax and repair, leaving guests feeling refreshed and restored. Choose from deep tissue, soft tissue or remedial massage and personalise with a choice of botanical essential oils. Manicures, pedicures and eye treatments including brow and lash shaping are on offer, and in-suite hairdressing services are also on the menu.

LAWN ACTIVITIES 
The property offers many of its own activities, designed to complement the relaxing atmosphere of the quiet natural location. A private outdoor yoga session may be arranged on a dedicated yoga lawn, ideal for absorbing the fresh air and performed to a soundtrack of birdsong and the soothing flow of the Waikato River. Alternatively, yoga is also offered for guests in-suite as a personal consultation.

For a relaxing endeavour pétanque or croquet courses are set up on the lawn, the perfect pastime on a slow-paced afternoon. For some quiet time, lounge by the lodge’s pool and spas or enjoy a drink by the river, remembering to keep an eye out for passing trout.

OTHER ACTIVITIES
Taupō offers a diverse range of options for guests looking to explore more or perhaps pursue a special interest. Huka Lodge works with premium local operators to offer these special adventures. Additional charges apply, please enquire for details.

BIKING 
Mountain bikes are available for guest use, ideal for cruising into town or for taking on the many mountain bike trails around Taupō, best explored with a private guide. such as the Timber Trail through Pureora Forest Park featuring graceful suspension bridges and intriguing timber industry relics.

KAYAKING/SUP
Kayaks and stand-up-paddle boards are a wonderful way to explore the rivers and lakes at one’s own pace. Local operators provide a two-hour Waikato River tour as a taster, while a longer tour paddles alongside the giant Māori carvings at Lake Taupō.

THERMAL SPA
Taupō’s thermal pools are renowned for increasing blood circulation while inspiring relaxation. The geothermal waters are rich in natural minerals, the perfect way to unwind after a round of golf or a day‘s adventures.

BUNGY JUMPING
The extreme sport of bungy jumping originated in New Zealand in 1988. At Taupō, adventurers leap 150-feet from a platform over the Waikato River, upstream from Huka Falls. At 47 metres, it’s New Zealand’s highest water-touch bungy.

SKYDIVING
For thrill–seekers also keen for a view, skydiving in New Zealand is hard to beat. Lake Taupō has the largest commercial drop zone in the world and stunning views of volcanoes, forests and lake itself.

GLIDING
Gliding is an exhilarating sport that offers spectacular views and a sense of freedom like a bird soaring. The glider is under tow while flying over Huka Falls and Lake Taupō, before being released at around 5,000 ft.

SAMPLE ITINERARY
Loved as the heart of New Zealand’s North Island, Taupō offers a variety of experiences and adventures. Huka Lodge offers guests a stylish base from which to explore the region’s spectacular natural attractions including Huka Falls and the region’s picturesque namesake lake as well as Rotorua and the Tongariro National Park.

TAUPO
The ever-changing Waikato River and broader Lake Taupō region provide a magnificent natural setting for Huka Lodge. Taupō is found on the central plateau of New Zealand’s North Island, distinguished by its vast lake and endowed with a gentle climate, a leisurely pace and spectacular landscape.

Formed from an ancient volcanic caldera, Lake Taupō’s vast waters spill into the thundering Huka Falls. Snow-capped mountain peaks, rolling pastures of golden grasses, lush green wilderness and the clear waters of lakes, rivers and streams offer a calming and rewarding vista from every turn. How do I get there?

AOTEAROA
Aotearoa is the Māori name for New Zealand and translates to the long white cloud that envelopes both islands. It was originally used by the Māori people only in reference to North Island, where Taupō is at its heart.

For the region’s Māori population, tangata whenua, the people of the land, Aotearoa is their place. They know its mountains, rivers, landscape and sea; its culture, whakapapa, heritage and soul, its wairua.

HUKA FALLS
Just downstream from Huka Lodge, the calmly flowing Waikato River gains momentum as it heads towards a natural channel before plunging eleven metres in an icy blue churn along a graduated waterfall, Huka Falls.

Guests at Huka Lodge can embark on the Spa Park circuit walk which runs along the riverbanks to a bridge that crosses the river or platforms that offer views of the falls mid-stream, allowing a real sense of the water’s power and thunderous roar.

KIA ORA
A visit to Taupō offers a wonderful chance to engage with local Māori culture and discover its stories and heritage. At Huka Lodge, the Atamai Cultural Experience offers a personal connection with a descendant of the local Māori tribe, Ngāti Tūwharetoa, who will create a tailored experience based on special interests from food to spiritual, the arts or flora and fauna.

The tour may also include an exclusive opportunity to visit with a respected Māori elder for a further insight to the diverse Māori culture.

LOCAL FLAVOURS
New Zealand is famous for its extraordinary produce, its excellent wines, small batch brews and artisan spirits. Centrally located Huka Lodge has first-hand access to the veritable food bowl of premium, sustainable ingredients including locally produced beef and lamb from the rolling North Island fields.

There are Mahurangi Oysters from Auckland and freshly picked fruit and vegetables from the surrounding farmlands, all on the menu at Huka Lodge. View our dining philosophy.

NORTH ISLAND SEASONS 
New Zealand’s North Island seasons are distinct, offering a new set of experiences in each season. Crisp, blue-skied spring days lead into long summer days with mild evenings. In autumn, golden landscapes welcome and in winter, world class skiing followed by cosy winter nights warmed by local red wine and an open fire await.

SUMMER
Summer spans December, January and February. The days are long and warm, ideal for outdoor adventures both land-based and aquatic. Known as New Zealand’s ‘Christmas Tree’, the Pohutukawa flowers over summer, with its vibrant crimson blooms symbolic of relaxing summer days. Daytime temperatures range from 14-32°C (55-90 F) in summer.

AUTUMN
Autumn in New Zealand runs March through to May, generally offering settled weather. The long warm days of summer linger, while the nights cool off. These are ideal conditions for outdoor activities including hiking, kayaking, fishing and boating, and it’s a slightly quieter visitor season. Daytime temperatures range from 7-21°C (45-70 F) in autumn.

WINTER
Winter in New Zealand extends from June to August. The higher mountain peaks are snow covered, making for picturesque landscapes and offering opportunities for skiing and snow sports. At Huka Lodge this is perfect lodging weather, with brisk daytime walks and fine wines enjoyed fireside. Daytime temperatures range from 1.5-15.5°C (35-60 F) in winter.

SPRING
Springtime from September through November is postcard New Zealand, when newborn lambs are dotted along lush green fields, flowers bloom and waterfalls burst with rains. There’s a fresh, happy atmosphere and skip to the step that makes spring a wonderful time of year to visit. Daytime temperatures range from 4.5-18°C (40-65 F) in spring.

THE ENVIRONMENT
Huka Lodge is committed to a dedicated path of initiatives and procedures to ensure the very best practice for the environment, the local community and the planet. Essential to the vision are initiatives designed to preserve pristine waters and the broader environment, conserve energy via recycling and support the community of Taupō.

Huka Lodge takes a wholistic approach to managing its impact on the natural environment. A campaign to reduce the use of single-use plastics complements the use of organic and free-range produce in the kitchen, while producers who embrace sustainable practices are actively sought as partners.

Chemical-free pest control is used throughout the garden, which is also planned to provide food and shelter for bees, birds and animals.

WATER
In 2019, Huka Lodge embarked on a project to secure fresh Waikato water for the future and ensure sustainability of its use. The lodge invested in a monitoring system and purification process combining UV, activated carbon and osmosis – which ensured the restaurant’s own water was the spring water quality – and installed a state-of-the-art, wastewater plant. Its high-quality output is used to irrigate the gardens.

ENERGY
Energy conservation, recycling and commitment to new technologies are all essential to the sustainability philosophy at Huka Lodge. Recyclable materials are sorted, while batteries, printer cartridges and coffee pods are all recycled. Solar power planning is underway and electric vehicle charging stations are in place. Expired light bulbs are replaced with LED bulbs and timers work to reduce energy use.

COMMUNITY
A commitment to engaging with and supporting the local community is essential to Huka Lodge. The lodge recruits its loyal team from within the local community and supports local businesses wherever possible for the provision of food, wine and services.

Huka Lodge contributes to fundraising efforts for local schools and charities, and for more than thirty years has held a highly anticipated Christmas party for the community’s elderly residents.

Rooms: 25

Price: from 981 EUR per night

Source: www.hukalodge.com

This multi-award winning New Zealand luxury retreat is set within a 75 acre estate atop its own private ridgeline offering spectacular views of the Bay of Islands. Designed and furnished in an eclectic international contemporary style, where gardens and lodgings blend into the natural topography and foliage.

Unlike so many New Zealand luxury retreat, Eagles Nest, in Russell, the Bay of Islands offers the services of a resident personal trainer and spa therapists ensuring the most indulgent of stays.

Four of the five villas have private heated horizon edged pools, all have private jacuzzis, air conditioning, original artworks, home theatre system, Ecostore amenities and fully equipped gourmet kitchen.

Our team of talented resident chefs can spoil you for the evening with a delectable specially designed menu featuring freshly caught fish, crayfish (lobster), venison, lamb, and more. Eagles Nest chefs prepare this meal within the sanctuary of your villa. Relax with a superb glass of New Zealand wine in hand and take in the breathtaking views afforded.

Located in the Bay of Islands with easy access to the historic town of Kororāreka (Russell) in New Zealand, Eagles Nest offers a variety of luxury accommodation options for the most discerning of travellers. The Bay of Islands is a world renowned holiday destination with 144 plus islands to explore in this sub tropical paradise.

World class big game fishing, scenic cruising, sailing diving, kayaking, bush walking, mountain biking, helicopter flight seeing, romantic picnics are but some of the many options available from Eagles Nest. “Eagles Nest….somewhere between seven stars and heaven”

VILLAS
Located in the stunning Bay of Islands, Eagles Nest is an exclusive villa resort consisting of five stunning private villas, where your every need is catered to.

From panoramic ocean views, spacious accommodation, private concierge – you won’t need to see anyone else – unless it’s your dedicated butler or chef. Perched atop the cliffs at Russell, guests experience the very best of five-star service and catering.

RAHIMOANA VILLA
Our premier villa, Rahimoana’s design is unparalled in luxury, space and privacy. With soft shades of pale grey and white, Rahimoana epitomises the refined elegance of modern minimalism.

With a dramatic aerofoil copper roof floating above three-metre sliding glass walls, Rahimoana offers 300 degree views of ocean, islands, sunsets and landscapes. Rahimoana – Sun God Over The Ocean (Maori Translation)

Four superb bedrooms with ensuites flank the generous living and entertaining space. All have jaw-dropping views flowing seamlessly across granite balconies surrounded by lush beautifully-landscaped grounds.

The ever changing ocean and sky, sunsets, sunrises, abundant wildlife, with the sounds of rolling waves from your private beach hints at why Rahimoana is a world class holiday villa. Drenched in all day sun, this stunning villa sits on 44 acres of private headland with panoramic views of New Zealand’s famed Bay of Islands.

With over a kilometer of beach and ocean frontage overlooking deep water anchorage this iconic, one of a kind masterpiece also features a 25 meter infinity pool, a helipad and acres of pristine private land and native bush. There is a gymnasium, sauna, office, service area, and wine cellar enabling large scale and intimate entertaining with family, friends or business associates.

There is nothing in the world like Rahimoana for those who aspire to holiday or celebrate any special occasion in a villa that is a spectacular work of art. From the water, it appears hunkered into the hilltop as if it was always meant to be there.

This magnum opus boasts multiple indoor-outdoor living and lounge areas perfectly complementing the subtropical climate and breathtaking world class vistas.

SACRED SPACE VILLA
Sacred Space is our multi-generational villa, perfect for families or friends traveling together. Casually elegant, all suites in Sacred Space Villa are uniquely appointed with original New Zealand artwork and antique furnishings.

The large two-storey glass-roofed living area transforms gracefully from relaxed living to formal dining and your own dedicated celebration space. The commodious master bedroom occupies the entire upstairs area and enjoys four exposures, all with superb views.

The open plan gourmet kitchen adjoins the dining and lounge areas all opening onto beautiful outdoor decks and living areas including a 20-metre heated infinity pool and spa, where there is another full bathroom, outdoor shower and adjoining sauna.

FIRST LIGHT VILLA
Growing out of the hill side over-looking the magnificent land and seascapes, First Light oozes intimacy and is the preferred honeymoon villa or idyllic retreat for two. You will never want to leave the simply elegant villa that is First Light.

This is the ultimate nest for 2. A mezzanine bedroom enjoys spectacular views with floor to ceiling glass shower in the ensuite and skylight over the bed. The main floor has indoor and outdoor fireplaces with walls of glass bifold doors that allow the outside in.

First Light has a fabulous gourmet kitchen, another full bathroom, additional outdoor shower and a garden jacuzzi to soak away in under the starlit sky.

EAGLE SPIRIT VILLA
Tucked into the hillside, with magnificent ocean views, Eagle Spirit offers peace and relaxation amidst a stunning sun-drenched space. This spacious villa, perfect for up to three couples; offers magical vistas overlooking the picturesque Bay of Islands.

Immediately on entrance guests will be awestruck. Space, privacy, lush native landscapes, and ocean views with the best sunsets available. Look across to the historical grounds of Waitangi or watch dolphins frolic below, all while indulging in early evening cocktails on your deck or enjoying from the prime location of your outdoor spa.

CUISINE
Gourmet Epicure, Personal Chefs, Local Food and Wine, The Old Packhouse Market, The Bay of Islands Farmers Market & self catering are but a few options worth consideration.

GOURMET EPICURE AND PERSONAL CHEFS
Dining is an integral part of the Eagles Nest experience. Let the team of talented resident personal chefs awaken and delight the connoisseur within.

Eagles Nest’s “Gourmet Epicure” showcases a diverse array of New Zealand’s finest produce sourced locally and nationwide to provide a true sensation for all the senses to savour. Personal Chef menus are found in the downloadable information under bookings.

LOCAL FOOD & WINE
Northland vineyards consistently produce award-winning wines and all welcome visitors for tastings and cellar door sales. Accolades have been awarded to Northland cheesemakers for their delicious cheeses. Citrus fruits and olives are grown widely.

Locally made chocolate and coffee beans are a treat. The seafood is plentiful, fresh and magnificently varied. For great seaside dining options in Russell, visit The Duke of Marlborough, The Gables, Butterfish or Charlotte’s Kitchen across the water in Paihia.

SELF CATERING
Guests have the option of utilising their own gourmet kitchen within the villa. Each villa features modern appliances including ovens, hobs, toasters, kettles, dishwashers, crockery and cutlery. Villas can be personally pre-stocked with your selection of provisions for a nominal fee or choose from two local general stores or one of the local oyster farms only minutes away.

THE OLD PACKHOUSE MARKET
The Old Packhouse Market, which operates each Saturday, is a great place for locals and visitors to source fresh, local produce; meet for coffee, breakfast or brunch, and enjoy some fabulous Northland hospitality!!

You will find good, hearty, farm fresh produce as well as sample good food with great coffee of course. The Market is also a good place to purchase gifts created by talented local arts and crafts stallholders.

BAY OF ISLANDS FARMERS MARKET
The Bay of Islands Farmers Market, held in Kerikeri every Sunday morning, is a leisurely affair and has been running since 2004. Along with fresh regional grown vegetables, there is also specialty produce and gourmet goods including locally roasted coffee. Sub tropical fruit abounds, whether in preserves, jams or jellies.

WEDDINGS
Whether your celebration is an intimate affair or one for 50 guests for a seated banquet, only a tailor made experience will do, where one or all of our stunning villas provide the backdrop. Your wedding is a reflection of your passions and dream, to be looked back upon as the most memorable day of your lives.

Our luxurious property, overlooking the stunning Bay of Islands, provides an ideal and unique location for your wedding day; where each moment blends effortlessly into the next. Our dedicated wedding coordinator can assist with planning for your magical day.

CONFERENCES & MEETINGS
Whether it be an intimate dinner party for eight through to a banquet for fifty, our dedicated event coordinator will ensure your event is an unforgettable experience.

Eagles Nest offers an intimate and exclusive function space that is unique in design, offering unsurpassed views of the Bay of Islands and providing the perfect base for your conference, meeting, incentive or function.

LAND
As one of the earliest settlements in New Zealand, Russell and the surrounding areas have a rich and colourful history. Captain Cook first visited in 1769, putting the Bay of Islands on the European map. As a harbour, it was described as a most noble anchorage and it was little wonder that whalers and traders regularly stopped at the port of Kororareka for fresh water and supplies.

Missionaries (Anglican and Catholic) followed in the 1820’s and 30’s and much of this history remains today. Further explore Russell’s history at the Russell Museum and Pompallier House. Further Culture and Heritage Options can be found here.

After discovering the diverse history of Russell you may wish to explore the Bay of Islands area further with a personal guide from Black Robin Transport or engage in an authentic cultural experience with local Maori with Taiamai Tours.

Visit the world’s largest Kauri tree and explore the Waipoua forest with a local maori guide with Footprints Waipoua. The Bay of Islands and Te Rawhiti peninsula provide a wonderful choice of walks and hikes. These walks are accessible by road or foot from Eagles Nest.

GOLF
The Bay of Islands region features a number of golf courses offering superb views and world-class courses:

• Waitangi Golf Club – 18 Hole Par 70 Course, The course not only provides an exciting and ever changing challenge to the golfer but also the most tremendous panorama of sea and island views over the Bay of Islands, Russell, river and estuary views over Waitangi and Opua and rolling bush and forest views inland over Mount Bledisloe and Puketona. These views complimented by well groomed greens and fairways surrounded by areas of flowering native trees which provide sanctuary for many varieties of native birds. The Pro-Shop is well stocked with the latest golf must haves and also has a quality range of hire equipment. Finally end your day with a lovely meal and drink from the Club cafeteria then sit back, relax and just enjoy the views.
• Kauri Cliffs – 18 Hole Par 72 Championship Course. Kauri Cliffs was designed and built by David Harman of Golf Course Consultants, Orlando, Florida. The course measures 6,510 metres and offers five sets of tees to challenge every skill level. Fifteen holes view the Pacific Ocean, six of which are played alongside cliffs which plunge to the sea. The beautiful inland holes wind through marsh, forest and farmland. Currently ranked among the 100 Greatest Golf Courses in the World by Golf Magazines World Top 100 Course Ranking panel. The golf complex includes a world-class practice range, putting and chipping greens, a well stocked golf ship, and ladies and mens locker rooms. Callaway ladies and mens rental clubs are available.
• Keri Keri Golf Club – 18 Hole Par 73 Championship Course, The course is a meticulously maintained 6101 metre championship golf course in the beautiful Bay of Islands. The course makes wonderful use of the contours sculpted by the Puketotara Stream and the Kerikeri River and provides beautiful views of the New Zealand native bush and birds. The signature 13th hole is a 120 metre par 3 over a steep drop to a generous green well protected by bunkers and water hazards with a sweep of the river at the back of the green. The course opened in 1973.
• Carrington – 18 Hole Par 72 Championship Course, The golf course at Carrington Resort is sited so as to provide a variety of vistas to the golfer. The course is located with sweeping ocean views to the north and east, and hill side vineyards of Karikari Estate to the south. Spectacular views of the golf course, wetlands, beach and ocean beyond are visible from the clubhouse and lounge complex. The clubhouse is sited on a high ridge in the middle of the golf course in order to take full advantage of the unique combination of vistas. The championship standard course was designed by American golf course designer Matt Dye.

CYCLYING
For those who wish to explore the Northland and Bay of Islands areas more seriously, we suggest the services of the team at toptrail. All year round in Northland brings warm days and blue skies.

Ideal for some great riding. Spring through Summer and Autumn are stunning times of year and perfect for cycling adventures. Clear bright days and moderate to warm temperatures make for an enjoyable bike tour.

HORSE TREKKING
Eagles Nest horse riding experiences are provided by Horse Trekin Paihia. Novice riders will be briefed and schooled on riding techniques before embarking on a quiet leisurely horse ride through the forest enjoying beautiful scenery, forestry ocean views and perhaps a splash into the sea at Wairoa Bay.

For the more experienced Horse Trekin offer the opportunity to explore ridges and views over the Bay of Islands and surrounding areas. You may embark on a ride to the volcano, where you’ll enjoy breathtaking 360 views of the Pacific ocean, the islands and the pine forest.

Custom tailored rides available including swimming with your horse and treks up to ridge line of the local volcano to take in the spectacular views. Rides available from 2 hours – full day options.

SEA
With its rich marine wildlife, clear blue water and secluded beaches, the area can be enjoyed by people of all ages. The Bay of Islands is world renowned for its beauty and Eagles Nest is the perfect base for getting out and exploring the bay. Russell Wharf is the pick up and drop off point for most charter operators.

Enjoy the thrill of tagging and releasing a marlin or game fish with MV Ata Rangi or try for Yellow Tail King Fish, Snapper, Hapuka, Tuna, John Dory or Sharks with Earl Grey Charters or Major Tom II Charters.

Fans of this Salt Water Fly Fishing will be thrilled with the opportunities presented in the Bay of Islands. By boat or from the shore, there are marvellous opportunities to fly fish. Snapper, Kahawai and even Kingfish will provide an exciting challenge and can be overseen by one of the best saltwater fly guides in New Zealand.

For something different, you can write yourself into the history books with a luxurious cruise or a fishing charter on board one of New Zealand’s most historic boats, the ‘Alma G’.
Enjoy a day cruising or fishing the waters of the Bay of Islands, experiencing the sights and sounds that inspired the writings of the legendary Zane Grey aboard the recently refitted Alma G.

Looking for an exclusive sailing excursion where every whim is catered for by your dedicated crew? You cannot go past Cool Change offering an unforgettable experience. If you wish to sail yourself visit Fairwind for an extensive range of well equipped yachts.

If you feel the pressures of time and want to venture out onto the water without committing a whole day, we suggest the services of the Ocean Adventure. A high speed boat adventure taking in the Bay of Islands at speed!

Scenic cruising, island hopping with regular scheduled trips from a few hours to a full day visit Fullers Great Sights. Ever wanted to swim with the dolphins? Explore – Bay of Islands

Join Darryl and his friendly team on Darryls Dinner Cruise and enjoy two and a half hours hours on calm waters as you cruise up the Waitangi River. Dine in style and comfort on board the unique Ratanui while you marvel at the abundant bird life and historic points of interest. You make your way up to the gorgeous Haruru Falls while relaxing, enjoying a delicious meal as the sun goes down.

Interested in kayaking? The majestic Waitangi River or the wider Bay of Islands is waiting to be explored! Visit the friendly team at Coastal Kayakers for some great options. Enjoy breath taking views over the Bay of Islands from New Zealand’s highest parasail with Flying Kiwi Parasail. Fly up to 1200ft with regular departures from Russell Wharf.

FISHING
Our local charter vessels have been fishing the Bay of Islands and the North East coast of New Zealand for may years. All vessels are provided with professional skippers with knowledgeable crew. Many of our vessels have won numerous fishing tournaments, and are members of Bay of Islands Swordfish Club.

Our local vessels target Marlin, Tuna, Yellowtail Kingfish, Hapuku and Snapper. A range of vessels are available, both for the ‘fair weather sailors’ through to the avid fisher-person!

All boats are comfortable, with plenty of shelter from the elements and offer toilet facilities. Most offer cooking facilities, a fridge, and tea and coffee is complimentary. Full catering is available by prior arrangement. Your catch will be prepared to your liking ready to cook, or it can be smoked by our local professional smoker.

AIR
Departing directly from Eagles Nest are a number of exclusive helicopter options visiting areas such as Cape Reinga, 90 mile beach and the Waipoa Forest.

For the ultimate helicopter fishing experience, Eagles Nest recommends Rotorwork. With fully catered rock fishing adventures in locations only accessible by helicopter, your day starts with a scenic flight out over the Bay of Islands en route to your chosen fishing destination.

Guests are provided with all necessary fishing tackle, quality rods and reels, bait and lunch. No prior fishing experience is necessary as a professional fishing guide is also available

In addition to helicopter adventures, it would be our pleasure to assist with Lodge to Lodge transfers, exclusive golfing excursions and exclusive lunch settings which are only accessible by helicopter. We recommend Salt Air, Advanced Flight and North Shore Helicopters.

Eagles Nest would also be delighted to assist with private plane transfers throughout New Zealand and Australia with Air National and Salt Air.

ADVENTURE
Eagles Nest is your chosen base to explore the many adventure activities in the Bay of Islands. Add some extreme flare to your luxury experience, try one of the following;

Tandem sky diving from 20,000 feet with a fully qualified jump master with Sky Dive Zone Bay of Islands. Enjoy at least a minute at free fall and speeds of up to 120 mph or 200 kph before deploying your dual sized parachute all while enjoying the spectacular panoramic views .

Join Fullers Great Sights, aboard Island Adventurer and discover the rugged seaward side of the Bay of Islands with its sheer cliffs and caves accompanied by the sweeping sandy beaches of the inshore islands.

See historic Marsden Cross, the site of New Zealand’s first missionary settlement and the place where the first Christian sermon was preached. Visit the majestic Black Rocks – these stunning and rare basalt formations are of a type found in only three locations worldwide.. Fullers Great Sights

Join Captain Rich and team at Kiwi Parasail and sore up to 1,200 feet with New Zealands highest parasailing adventure. No age restrictions or experience required and sail up to three persons at one time behind the purpose built boat. Flying Kiwi Parasail.

EAGLES NEST BIRDS
Eagles Nest is proud to be home to many of New Zealand’s unique and at risk birdlife. The special geography and location of Russell has meant that predator control, though ongoing, has been very successful and shown amazing results.

We take very seriously our responsibility to the environment we have around us. By creating as little impact as possible on our many acres of Native Bush and working very closely with groups such as the Kiwi Foundation, to regularly check and maintain pest traps through-out the property, we aim to encourage our unique residents to flourish and look forward to continuing the repopulation of the Bay of Islands with many more of its former inhabitants.

NORTH ISLAND BROWN KIWI
By far New Zealands best known and iconic birds, the Kiwi is certainly a well loved oddity. Flightless, nocturnal and laying the largest egg for its size in the world, these remarkable birds were perfectly adapted to their pre-European habitat.

Unfortunately, Kiwi have been hit hard by the introduction of pests such as the stoat and domestic cat and they currently number just 8000 in the Northland area. Happily Kiwi are resilient and have been responding well to repopulation and pest eradication projects and numbers are once again on the increase.

At Eagales Nest this year we have been very busy in our Kiwi Care. As well as our ongoing association with the NZ Kiwi Foundation to keep the peninsular predator free, we have also introduced our first Kiwi House with the intention to construct and place at least 6 more around the property in the near future.

These cosy wooden Boxes are especially designed to simulate a burrow and easily allow the Kiwi to rest, nest and defend itself if necessary.

The boxes are also designed with a small viewing window meaning that monitoring can be done easily without any disturbance to the Birds and also allows the opportunity for any interested Guests to have an up close meeting with these very special New Zealanders. This year also marks our first official Kiwi Count where we look forward to listening out for our Kiwi calls at locations throughout the property.

NORTH ISLAND WEKA
Lesser known and even rarer than its Kiwi cousin, at present The North Island Weka only remain on mainland New Zealand in a handful of locations Eagles Nest being one of them. Many of our Guests have easily mistaken this timid, Flightless bird for the Nocturnal Kiwi though as they are active during the day, they are in fact much easier to spot!

Weka were believed to have disappeared altogether from the Russell peninsular as early as the 1940s. In 2002, following a widespread predator eradication programme, 39 Weka were localised and released in the area.

The Weka quickly moved around and have happily called Eagles Nest home ever since. It is hoped that the success here in Russell will be used as an example and breeding stock for future repopulations through-out New Zealand’s North Island.

Weka need little encouragement to flourish here at Eagles Nest. There is an estimated 30 breeding pairs on our peninsular and this is rapidly increasing each year. We are very proud of the fact that we are one of the few places in the whole of New Zealand where the true Evening Chorus of the Kiwi, Weka and Morepork can be heard outside from the comfort of any of our Villas.

THE LITTLE BLUE PENGUIN
The Blue Penguin or Korora are widespread around the coast of New Zealand. They are the smallest of all penguins weighing just 1kg on average and spend their days swimming the oceans, eating fish, squid and crustaceans only coming ashore at night to sleep and nest.

The Blue Penguin holds a special place in the history of Russell in particular, with Kororareka, her Maori name meaning Sweet Penguin! They are frequently spotted in the Bay of Islands swimming around charter boats and also around the Russell wharf in search tasty mackerel.

Happily Penguin numbers are very healthy in the area and this is especially helped by the constant control of stoats and rats who are well known to kill nesting parents and chicks.

The Eagles Nest beaches are home to many of these gorgeous little birds, and for several years now we have placed Penguin boxes along the shore line to provide shelter and nesting places that are used year round.

Website: www.eaglesnest.co.nz

Rooms: 5

Price: from 1.109 EUR per night

Set on the shores of Lake Wakatipu amidst the rugged snow capped peaks of the Southern Alps. Blanket Bay is where relaxation and adventure meets luxury accommodation, unparalleled service and five star facilities.

Unsurpassed comfort and service in a spectacular setting is what defines a stay at Blanket Bay. Grand stone-and-timber architecture with beamed ceilings, large open log fireplaces and floor to ceiling windows provide a true lodge experience.

Whether you’re dining at the award winning resturant, relaxing by a fire or making the most of the gym and spa – Blanket Bay offers an unrivalled level of luxury accommodation and amenities for your stay.

Choose from the relaxed and intimate rooms of the Main Lodge, the space and privacy of our Chalets or the unparalled luxury of the Blanket Bay Villa. For the ultimate ‘home away from home’ retreat the Owners Residence offers an ideal setting for a family or group.

The Lodge lies on the edge of one of the greatest alpine wilderness regions in the Southern Hemisphere – a brief helicopter ride away from the stunning Milford Sound and the snow-capped Mt Earnslaw Glacier, the beautiful quiet trout-filled rivers of The Greenstone Valley and the dense pre-historic rainforests of World Heritage Fiordland National Park.

THE HISTORY
The name, Blanket Bay, recalls the events over 150 years ago when pioneer farmers from Europe sheared their sheep on the shore of a bay under rough shelters stitched together from blankets.

In 1861, a mob of sheep owned by Mr William Gilbert Rees were sheared on the shore of Lake Wakatipu, in a bay just south of where the small town of Glenorchy is situated. This bay was to be named Blanket Bay after blankets used to create the shed and shelters used to protect the eight Maori shearers and the wool from the elements.

During the gold rush of the 1860s miners came to this place seeking their fortunes, first at the Invincible Gold Mine in the Rees Valley and later at Wyuna where still exist remnants of over 20 sheelite mines.

Today Blanket Bay Lodge sits on Wyuna station – a working sheep, cattle and deer farm, historically part of the original Rees station that occupied the entire eastern side of Lake Wakatipu and beyond.

No one knows for sure whether the quiet valley called Paradise, just up the road from Blanket Bay, takes its name from the beautiful ducks that flock here or the magnificence of the surrounding landscape. The valley has been home to the Paradise duck long before humans arrived. When you hold their rich feathers up to the light they shine a brilliant green.

These gentle ducks illustrate a love story as old as the valley itself. When two birds find each other they share a lifelong partnership. Today, their bright feathers are identified with the sanctuary of romantic seclusion found on the doorstep of Paradise and at the centre of the Blanket Bay brand.

ACCOMMODATION
Options for staying at Blanket Bay include the stone-and-timber main lodge with its intimate rooms and generous suites. Standalone chalets catering for those who would like their own space and privacy and The Villa providing an unparalleled level of luxury for small or large groups looking for the ultimate Blanket Bay experience. For families or groups looking for the ‘home away from home’ luxury retreat, the Owners Residence is available on request.

THE MAIN LODGE
Built in the grand style of the finest alpine Lodges and finished with native New Zealand timber and stone. You’ll find cosy corners by stone fireplaces, amazing views and fine dining at the award winning restaurant.

Choose from naturally inspired rooms or larger suites finished in polished wood and fine fabrics, our blanket bay lodge rooms offer sweeping views across lake wakatipu towards the greenstone valley and surrounding peaks.

LODGE SUITES
Relax and unwind in our generous 700 sq. ft. lodge suites that offer comfort, space and luxury set against a beautiful backdrop of Lake Wakatipu and the Humbolt mountains. Enjoy the privacy of your own room before exploring what the lodge has to offer. You’ll find cosy corners by stone fireplaces, amazing views and fine dining at the award winning restaurant.

LODGE ROOMS
Experience a traditional New Zealand alpine lodge stay in comfort and style. Our 400 sq. ft. lodge rooms offer comfort and luxury overlooking Lake Wakatipu and Humbolt mountains.

Enjoy the privacy of your own room or explore what the lodge has to offer. You’ll find cosy corners by stone fireplaces, amazing views from your private balcony and fine dining at the award winning restaurant.

THE CHALETS
For those seeking a little more privacy and space our chalets have all the ingredients for a romantic retreat. Featuring open stone fireplaces, reclaimed timber and spectacular views. The chalets blend colonial New Zealand architecture with modern lodge comforts.

Chalet Suites may be combined with a living room to create our larger Chalet Staterooms. For two couples travelling together combine the Chalet Stateroom and the second adjoining Chalet Suite.

CHALET SUITE
Featuring open stone fireplaces, reclaimed timber and spectacular views. The chalets blend colonial New Zealand architecture with modern lodge comforts. Just a short walk from the main lodge and amenities the Blanket Bay Chalets offer privacy and space in an idyllic setting.

CHALET STATEROOM
Staterooms combine a Chalet Suite with an additional spacious living room providing 1400 sq.ft. of space for relaxing or entertaining. Featuring open stone fireplaces, reclaimed timber and spectacular views.

The chalets blend colonial New Zealand architecture with modern lodge comforts. Just a short walk from the main lodge and amenities the Blanket Bay Chalets offer privacy and space in an idyllic setting.

THE VILLA
Completed in December 2017, this multiple award winning architecturally designed masterpiece adds an impressive fully serviced Villa option to Blanket Bay. Positioned above the Lodge and Chalets, the Villa reveals spectacular views across Lake Wakatipu to the Humboldt and Thomson mountain ranges.

Four king suites comprising bedroom, bathroom and sitting area feature individual fireplaces with shared spaces centered around the grand lounge, bar and commercial kitchen, outdoor lounge areas with fire pit and hot tubs.

THE OWNER’S RESIDENCE
Offering seclusion and privacy in a magic setting. These stone and timber buildings nestled amongst established gardens are an ideal setting for multi generational families or groups looking to stay together but maintain their independence.

FOOD & WINE
Changing daily, our five-course degustation menu celebrates the best of seasonal New Zealand produce, with a focus on the finest local ingredients. Our cuisine showcases New Zealand’s finest, fresh produce sourced from bespoke local purveyors.

Dinner includes a daily changing five-course degustation menu cooked with passion, precision and flare. Chefs focus on respecting both producer and ingredients in delivering cuisine to excite the palate.

Award winning local Chef Dan Reynolds heads up the Blanket Bay kitchen, leading a talented brigade of professionals committed to delivering dining excellence at every sitting.

Dan knows Blanket Bay well after plying his trade here over a decade ago. The lure of the Lodge proved too much and drew the chef back from European Michelin Starred restaurants to a region he is passionate about.

Cocktails and canapes introduce the dining experience each evening. Summer and Autumns long warm evenings lend themselves to dining out on the Grand Terrace, framed by spectacular Mountain and Lake views, whilst the Dining Room with crackling open fire proves popular when cool.

Intimate dining spaces including the Wine Cave, Tasting Room and Outside Fireplace are superb for the romantic.

WINE SELECTION
Starting with Sauvignon Blanc, New Zealand has carved out a place on the world wine stage. Sauvignon Blanc, with its uniquely herbaceous quality, has established New Zealand as a premium wine growing and producing country.

More recently, Pinot Noir has taken its place alongside Sauvignon Blanc as a world class wine, ranking with top quality Burgundies from France. Being in the Otago region, we particularly focus on Central Otago and the outstanding Pinot Noirs that have made Central Otago famous.

Recognizing that we have guests who seek some of the world’s finest wines, we have also selected wines from some of the great chateaus of Bordeaux, with focus on the exceptionally rated vintages of 1995/2000/2005, generally considered 3 of the highest rated vintages of the last 30 years.

THE GREAT ROOM & DEN
Vast in scale and space, this spectacular room at the heart of the lodge, is truly great. Thirty-foot high, bridge beam trussed ceilings, soar above the enormous windows framing the spectacular scenery beyond. Comfortable, inviting lounge suites draw guests in to immerse themselves in a good book or the ever changing view.

During the cooler evenings the roaring fire lends itself perfectly to pre-dinner cocktails or post dinner conversation. Guests are welcomed to the Den for an aperitif or to sample our range of seasonal cocktails and canapés before dinner each evening.

DINING ROOMS & TERRACE
Evening meals are served at individual tables by the Main Dining Room’s open fire, or you may prefer to sit outside watching the sun descend beyond sweeping views across the Lake.

Further intimate dining options are located on the ground floor, where the Wine Cave may be reserved for up to four guests and the tasting room for up to six. Breakfast and lunch are served in the comfortable and spacious Breakfast Dining Room which offers lake-views and stone fireplace, or should you choose, outside on the Terrace.

GAMES ROOM
Complete with pool table, shuffle board, darts board and big screen TV, the Games Room is the perfect spot if you have a few spare moments during the day. The Self Serve Bar, stocked with beer and soft drinks, is always open. If you prefer, backgammon, chess, cards and an extensive movie library are all available. A tablet style computer is available here for guests.

WINE CAVE & LODGE BOUTIQUE
Between the Games Room and Health Facilities lies Blanket Bay’s Wine Cellar. Enclosed by distressed timber doors and lined in schist stone the Lodge’s vintage wines are carefully aged in this climate controlled room. Backing on to the cave sits our small Boutique, where a selection of New Zealand made garments can be found for purchase.

THERAPY SUITE
Whether you are looking for relaxation, re-invigoration or just some pampering, our long serving and talented therapist Yumi will provide a therapy that is perfect for you. Spa Therapies can be booked prior to your arrival.

HEALTH FACILITIES & HOT TUB
Featuring separate male and female steam and locker rooms we have the perfect location for a relaxing soak after a workout in the gym or an active day in the outdoors. Workout with unsurpassed views of the lake and mountains.

Our gym was fitted out in 2018 with Life Fitness cardio and strength equipment, TRX suspension trainers and a large number of free weights and medicine balls.

SWIMMING POOL
Choose from a range of on-site lodge activities including pétanque (bocce ball), garden chess and molkky. Shaded by a pergola the accompanying outdoor dining setting is a perfect spot to settle in and enjoy these games. Six Specialized bicycles are available for guests to use.

Two short walks on-site meander along the lakefront and can be accessed by the jetty. Hidden away beside the Lodge, the 18m x 6m outdoor heated pool captures the alpine environment with glorious lake views to the south. Weather depending, the pool is usually open November through April.

THE SOUTHERN LAKES REGION
Blanket Bay’s Southern Lakes location is jaw-droppingly, breath-takingly, unbelievably beautiful. These aren’t superlatives – they’re fact. At the heart of the region lies the lively resort town of Queenstown with a great selection of bars, restaurants and shops. It nestles along the shores of Lake Wakatipu overlooking the majestic Southern Alps, just 44 kilometres from Blanket Bay.

Queenstown’s reputation as the Adventure Capital of the World is well earned. Here you can choose to join in or become a spectator of the many activities on offer. Earth, water or air – there is something to test and thrill every adventure seeker. Queenstown day trips from Blanket Bay are an extremely pleasurable mix of fun and wonder.

For those not looking for the ultimate adrenaline rush this region also offers relaxation at its best. Join the Queenstown Wine Trail and discover award-winning wines from the world’s most southern vineyards – a lunch at Amisfield Winery or Gibbston Valley Winery is not to be missed.

Browse streets of boutiques, dine out or catch the old-world steamer TSS Earnslaw across the Lake. An hour by car from Blanket Bay lies the historic quaint gold mining town of Arrowtown.

GLENORCHY
Blanket Bay is situated just outside Glenorchy, one of New Zealand’s last frontier towns at the northern head of New Zealand’s longest Lake, Wakatipu. Bordered on two sides by National Parks, this delightful village huddles against a backdrop of rugged high country, beautiful mountains, glacier fed rivers and ancient beech forests.

It is here that Peter Jackson chose to film the epic movie trilogy, Lord of the Rings and the area became known as Middle Earth. A third of New Zealand’s great walks are accessible from the town, which is the main staging post for the Routeburn Track.

The Dart River is famous for its jet boat trips into the remote and spectacular Mount Aspiring National Park. Glenorchy’s quaint streets and small collection of cafes, shops and a General Store offers a distinctly local New Zealand country flavour.

BLANKET BAY & WYUNA STATION
Blanket Bay Lodge sits on the original Wyuna sheep station (ranch) historically a part of the original Rees station that occupied the entire eastern side of Lake Wakatipu and beyond.

Situated at the base of the Richardson Mountains, the station enjoys magnificent west facing views across Blanket Bay and over Lake Wakatipu to the Humboldt range. There are expansive lake views to the north with breathtaking vistas that take in the Dart and Rees valleys, Mt. Alfred and Mt. Earnslaw.

EXPERIENCES
With world heritage areas Fiordland and Mt Aspiring National Park just minutes away by helicopter, Blanket Bay offers the perfect location for exploring everything this spectacular region has to offer.

Jet-boat, horseback, fly-fishing, zip-line, Fun-Yak and hiking tours from the lodge are a small selection of what is offered. Further afield, enjoy a generous selection of world class wineries, art galleries, golf courses and shops.

DISCOVER SPECTACULAR FIORDLAND
Fiordland is one of the southern hemisphere’s great wilderness regions and has achieved World Heritage Status for its stunning natural features and exceptional beauty

MILFORD SOUND EXTENDED HELI TOUR
Explore Milford Sounds’ stunning fiord from the air. Fly past sheer cliffs and gushing waterfalls out to the Tasman Sea where you will land on a wild West Coast beach.

In Milford, enjoy a short nature walk before embarking on an exhilarating flight past spectacular rivers, valleys and mountains with blue-green ice falls. Land upon a glacier/snow (subject to weather and availability) in the heart of Fiordland National Park before returning to Blanket Bay.

FIORDLAND HELI TRAVERSE
Experience flying up close to 2000 feet waterfalls and traversing the majestic fiords. Drop in amongst the New Zealand fur seals and forage for fresh lobster. Hover over glaciers and land in the snow for photo memories against the mountain backdrop.

Enjoy a gourmet BBQ picnic lunch, with complimentary New Zealand wines and beverages, at a special location chosen on the day. This is an unsurpassed experience, and unquestionably a highlight of any trip to this region of New Zealand.

WILDERNESS JET-BOAT SAFARI
Our private Dock serves as the perfect launch pad for this unique combination of breath-taking scenery and an exhilarating ride as you follow the braided, glacier-fed rivers by jet boat.

Your guides give you their authentic touch, talking about the area’s rich history, the Greenstone trail and countless Maori legends. After tying up the boat, take a short walk amongst the ancient beech tree forests – an atmosphere you may recognize from The Lord of the Rings films.

FUNYAKS (KAYAKS)
Combine the exhilaration of a wilderness jet boat ride with a leisurely downstream float on the easy to use Funyaks (inflatable kayaks). Ideal for families to explore the truly unique Dart River.

Following the jet boat ride up the Dart River deep into the heart of Mt Aspiring National Park, travel back down river at your own pace in the unique Funyaks. Explore pristine waters as they flow from the Southern Alps to Lake Wakatipu, hidden side streams with amazing rock pools and dramatic chasms.

ROUTEBURN TRACK
Although commonly traversed over three days, many of this tracks vast highlights can be achieved in a day from Blanket Bay. The track is one of New Zealand’s nine Great Walks and is maintained by the Department of Conservation.

FLATS HUT AND BACK
Considered an easy section on the Routeburn, this section is perfect for those who may not be the most experienced hikers but still want to enjoy some of the Routeburn Track’s stunning landscapes.

A relatively easy fifteen km return trip, this section is rather flat, sheltered from the weather and will take between three to five hours. Highlights along this section include the turquoise water of the Routeburn River, Bridal Veil Falls, views of the Southern Alps and thick, untouched forest.

FALLS HUT AND BACK
Continuing on, the trail does become more difficult after the Routeburn Flats Hut. From the hut, you quickly gain a further three hundred meters as you make your way up to Routeburn Falls. Gaining elevation the views of the area become all the more breath-taking.

Looking down back towards the valley floor is stunning. Highlights of this twenty km five to six hour return trip, include crossing several small suspension bridges, Eagle Bluff, and of course Routeburn Falls.

GUIDED WALKS
We can also arrange for one of our charming and knowledgeable local guides to accompany you for the day. They will meet you at the Lodge and take you to some beautiful remote places like The Paradise or Routeburn valleys.

Learning about the natural features and wild life as well as the history of these stunning landscapes is a great way to get to know the area. For those guests who wish to walk without a guide we recommend hiring a car to allow easy access to the many walking tracks within a half hour’s drive of the Lodge.

RIDE THE HIGH COUNTRY
Experience a magic horseback adventure on our high country station. Whether a first time rider or born to the saddle, you will enjoy a stunning few hours within a horse riding landscape second to none in New Zealand. Working with Glenorchy’s most respected horse riding outfitters, rides of varied durations for every ability are expertly catered for.

Perhaps our most popular ride “The Rees River Trail” showcases the best of the region. “This 2.5 hour ride caters for beginners, intermediate and experienced riders looking for a relaxed paced scenic trail. Designed to take in the stunning scenery that is Glenorchy, the Rees river trail takes clients across farmland and onto the Rees River.

You will experience crossing glacial fed waters, ride amongst the lupin / wild flower fields, and be awe inspired by our beautiful snow-capped mountain ranges known famously from LOTR, Hobbit, The Chronicles of Narnia, Mission Impossible and Wolverine origins. Come and have a REAL Kiwi experience!”

FLY & HELI-FISHING
Close to several of New Zealand’s iconic trout fishing rivers, Blanket Bay was originally built for the owner Tom Tusher’s love of fly-fishing. From lakes to large rivers, slow moving pools, fast runs and riffles to bush clad streams, the question is where to begin.

Blanket Bay is close to several of New Zealand’s iconic trout fishing rivers with the Greenstone and Caples minutes away by helicopter. Good fishing is also available nearby in local rivers and streams, along the lake edge or around the river mouths that flow into Lake Wakatipu. Trout have been caught at the mouth of Stoney Creek that runs alongside the Lodge.

November 1st to May 31st. Best time of the season Nov to mid Dec and March to April. Busiest time Jan – Feb. Rivers further afield open at the beginning of October.

A number of rivers are within driving distance of Blanket Bay. Most rivers can be accessed by helicopter, the cost of which depends on the distance flown. It is best NOT to pre book a helicopter as the weather and choice of river determines the feasibility and cost of the flying.

The decision to fly can be made the preceding evening. The rivers are mostly small to medium free stone rivers, holding brown and rainbow trout. Early and late season offer the best opportunity to catch one of our larger trout.

Two anglers maximum per guide. Daily guide fee approximately: NZ$850.00, which includes fishing equipment. To pre-book a guide, the minimum charge out will be a full days guiding fee. Additional Charges: back country fishing license, lunch and any helicopter time.

As you will be sight fishing, it is often necessary to walk long distances over varying terrain, a reasonable standard of fitness is required. To further enhance your experience, you should be able to cast at least 30ft accurately and into a moderate wind.

In other words, you do need to be reasonably experienced to be successful. Guides provide all necessary tackle. For those wishing to bring their own, the following is most suitable:

• Tackle: Fly rods 5/6 weight with matching weight forward floating lines, dark colors are preferable.
• Leaders & Tippet: 12 / 14 foot leaders tapering to 4x; tippet material 3,4,5,6 x
• Dry Flies & Nymphs: Royal wolf, Humpy’s green and yellow, Adams, Pheasant tail, Hares ear to name but a few.
• Clothing: Avoid bright colors especially white. Sand fly repellant is a ‘must’. Repellant is available to buy from the Lodge, if required.

HELI-FISHING
Take a helicopter from the lawns of Blanket Bay to the most remote rivers of New Zealand’s South Island and experience some of the world’s best fly-fishing.

There are waters with Brown trout only and some with sea run trout (Steelhead). Within 15 minutes of the Lodge by helicopter there are many miles of wilderness rivers and streams, inaccessible to vehicles, and only accessed by foot with great difficulty. Helicopter access makes the most of these virtually untouched waters.

We will recommend a great fishing plan, arranging helicopter as well as all gear and tackle if required. Our guides possess ‘insider’ knowledge and can take you to stretches of water possibly not fished this season by any other angler, where you can stalk wild Rainbow and Brown trout.

If you are even more adventurous then we can arrange an exciting full day heli-fishing experience on up to three different rivers. A trip to Fiordland combines sensational scenery with unsurpassed fishing. Alternatively visit the West Coast where rivers flowing into the sea can produce sea run Browns at selected times of the year.

The helicopter pilots are very experienced and have extensive knowledge of the diverse Fiordland, Southland and Otago landscapes. They are all familiar with unique weather patterns in these regions, a very important aspect when flying in this mountainous terrain.

HELI-SKI À LA CARTE
Contrary to the perception that heli-skiing is only reserved for the extreme skier/boarder, with New Zealand’s unique geography you can heli-ski on moderate terrain (ski field blue run equivalent) with your own private helicopter right from Blanket Bay’s doorstep. The average Southern Alps’ heli-ski run is 750 vertical meters.

GOLF
The area offers a year-round golfing destination and is home to some of the most spectacular golf courses in the country. 5 Golf courses within 1 hours drive from Blanket Bay will appeal to every level of golfer.

Whether it’s the lush immaculately groomed greens of a 27 hole resort course or a simple fairway with rugged mountain peaks as a backdrop. The hardest part is choosing where to begin.

The Queenstown area offers several exceptional golfing experiences. Millbrook, with its 27 secluded holes over three individual courses, the challenging Hills 18-holes on the outskirts of Arrowtown along with Jack’s Point are all considered in the top 10 in New Zealand.

Jack’s point golf course is not only one of the most spectacular in the world, but as an 18 hole par 72 championship course it offers golfers of any calibre a challenging and unforgettable experience.

With a backdrop of 2300 vertical metres of the razorback Remarkables mountain range and an armchair view of an outstanding lake and mountain panorama, Jack’s Point Golf Course is not only one of the most spectacular in the world, but as an 18 hole par 72 championship course it offers golfers of any calibre a challenging and unforgettable experience.

The course works with nature, not against it. Designed with minimal excavation, the 6538 metre (7150 yard) course is built on the most spectacular of Jack’s Point terrain, weaving through tussock grasslands, dramatic rock outcrops, steep bluffs and swathes of native bush to the edge of Lake Wakatipu.

Just as the rough-hewn stone walls adjacent to the fairways evoke its high country farming heritage, so the entire Jack’s Point Golf Course has been designed to take full advantage of its history and terrain – raw, dramatic and wild.

With preservation and restoration of surrounding wetlands, matagouri and native bush, each hole has been carefully aligned to a magnificent backdrop, offering the player a full 360 degree experience of the high country landscape.

Along side Jack’s point, Millbrook and the Hills you can also play the scenic 9-hole Queenstown Golf Club, the historic 18-hole Arrowtown Golf Club, as well as the local 9-hole Glenorchy Golf Club just minutes from Blanket Bay.

WINE & ARTS TRAIL
The Southern Lakes region is famous for its new world wines with the local varietals like Pinot Noir being rated amongst the world’s best. The Wine & Arts Trail takes you to the homes and galleries of some of New Zealand’s pre-eminent artists coupled with sampling Otago’s finest wines along the way.

The Southern Lakes region has attracted huge interest for its remarkable ‘New World’ wines, with the local varietals like Pinot Noir being rated amongst the world’s best.

Some of the local wineries, like the award winning Amisfield Winery & Bistro and Gibbston Valley winery also boast restaurants and tasting facilities in spectacular settings with cuisine to match. Here is the perfect opportunity to relax, have lunch and enjoy local flavours and superb scenery.

For those guests who would like to experience some of the rich local culture, the team at Blanket Bay can organise your day, whether self-drive or with a chauffeur driven car, sampling the local wine, enjoying a fabulous lunch at Amisfield Bistro and Gibbston Valley winery while meeting the artists at their studios.

New Zealand’s art and the artists themselves offer a refreshing insight into how kiwis continue to make a name for themselves on the world stage. Locally we are fortunate to have some of New Zealand’s most interesting and respected artists in residence; to be able to visit them in their own studios is one of the great attractions of the region.

ADVENTURE ACTIVITIES
Home to the latest and greatest in adrenaline activities for every type of thrill-seeker the choices are endless. From the iconic bungy jump to whitewater rafting, jet boating remote rivers or mountain biking forest trails, zip-lining near snowy mountains, swinging across canyons and surfing down rivers, these are just a few of the ways you can get outside of your comfort zone in the Southern Lakes.

From a leisurely stroll along the lakefront to a jetboat ride into the very heart of the mountains, the variety of options is incredibly diverse offering pleasure or excitement for everyone.

*Because of our mountainous region most activities are dependent on the weather. With the exception of a fishing guide and the Funyaks, there is no need to pre-book any activities. Upon your arrival we can talk through all your interests and options, take a look at the weather and then book accordingly.

JET BOAT ON THE DART RIVER
Navigate deep into the alpine corridor of Mount Aspiring National Park, the challenging grandeur of the mountains and valleys will leave a lasting impression.

Discover ice-capped mountains and glaciers, cascading waterfalls and crystal clear streams and pools, all while enjoying the thrill of being aboard your purpose built jetboat that picks up or drops off at Blanket Bay’s private jetty.

BUNGY JUMPING
For over ten years people have been thrilled at this Queenstown icon either by jumping themselves, or as official spectators. Bungy Jump (or watch) from the world’s first commercial site, or choose between four other heart stopping jumps ranging between 42 metres and 102 metres. Guaranteed to be an unforgettable experience.

MOUNTAIN BIKING
Blanket Bay has Six Specialized bicycles are available for guests to use. Jump aboard and head off along the beach, or take a picnic lunch and venture further afield into Mount Aspiring National Park or Paradise itself.

RAFTING
Experience the exhilaration of rafting on either the Shotover or Kawarau Rivers. No previous experience required- professionally trained guides will provide instruction and give a safety briefing.

The more challenging Shotover River begins over peaceful waters, heading towards the exhilarating rapids of the lower Canyon. Flowing through the beautiful Kawarau Gorge, passing beneath the Gibbston and Chard vineyards, the Kawarau River offers a mix of gentle flowing water and mighty rapids.

Website: www.blanketbay.com

Rooms: 8

Price: from 1.063 EUR per night

Explore the spectacular, experience the dramatic, and enjoy exotic New Zealand first hand. Wharekauhau is considered one of New Zealand’s, (and the world’s), most luxury hideaways, offering guest an unforgetable farm stay experience set in the spectacular foothills of the Remutaka Mountain Range and the clifftops of dramatic Palliser Bay. Rest or explore while surrounded in luxury, and build a lifetime of memories.

Grandeur, gracious and intimate, set high on the clifftops with sparkling Pacific Ocean views, and intimate spaces to while your time away. Warm light streams in from the gardens to illuminate our kitchen, a large country kitchen table offers guests the chance to discuss our chefs’ secrets.

Share in the moment with your family, friends and colleagues, or enjoy a solo adventure with one of our unique activities. With 3,000 acres of private land including ancient forests, peaceful lakes, rivers, and a wild and rugged coast, our guests are spoilt for choice.

With simplicity, honesty and taste at its heart, enjoy farm to table dining. Everything is based around what you would like. Sourced fresh from our own gardens or in surrounding areas. We want to showcase what makes our corner of this amazing country so special, and we choose foods to ensure we place focus on the sustainability of our produce.

Walk into a bygone era and enjoy the grandeur and gracious lifestyle of the Edwardian times. The spacious grand lodge is set high on the hill with a spectacular view, yet still has an intimate feel for your stay.

ROOMS & SUITES
All Suites and Villas at Wharekauhau are designed to be your home-away-from home. Luxury light and bright interiors contrast against the wild and rugged backdrop of Wharekauhau station with large windows to gaze out across the big blue sweep of Palliser Bay.

Each Suite has been well thought out to provide the ultimate in relaxation and luxury. Heated floors, private fireplaces, oversize wardrobes, deep sofas, and individual terraces these will truly become your home away from home!

COTTAGE SUITES
Wharekauhau’s Luxury Cottage Suites are a picture of grandeur. Perched high above the thunderous surf of the Palliser Bay, you are treated to dramatic vistas. Relax in absolute bliss and forget the outside world.

Be at one with nature among the sheep that dot the pastures and enjoy deep sofas, fluffy pillows, heated marbled floors, and homemade cookies are just a few of the luxuries that are associated with our 16 Cottage Suites.

The timeless and light soaked cottages were initially put together by the famed NZ interior designer, Virginia FIscher. In true Wharekauhau style, natural materials are used throughout the cottage suites, including clay tiles, pebble mosaics, plastered walls, rich New Zealand wool carpeting, and high-thread-count cotton bed linen.

FOLEY VILLA
No other accommodation compares to the Foley Villa at Wharekauhau Country Estate. The villa is a world-class, 4,500 square foot, hideaway that offers, you the guest, the best of both worlds. It offers complete privacy, and independence, as well as access to all of the Wharekauhau amenities.

The Foley Villa is located a short 10 minute walk, (or 2 minute drive), from the main lodge with stunning views over the dramatic Palliser Bay. Built to make a statement, and yet it sits as an elegant stand-alone property framed by backdrop of the Remutaka Ranges.

The 3 bedroom villa is split between two levels, joined by an Oamaru sandstone staircase. The interiors were custom designed by local designer firm Kurio Design. The villa has a light and bright Hamptons-style feel that has been designed to incorporate as much natural light as possible with high ceilings, large windows, and full sliding patio doors.

The cottage has a central, open-plan lounge and dining area. Deep chairs, a flat screen television with integrated house BOSE audio visual system, and an open log-burning fireplace.

A large dining table for private family dinner sits between the kitchen and the lounge. The kitchen is fully functional and perfect to have a private chef come and spend an evening creating a bespoke menu without you having to leave the villa!

All three guest suites have stunning views across Palliser Bay, and are filled with natural light; however the downstairs master guest suite also opens out onto a private paved courtyard.

Each room is set with a king sized bed, comfortable chairs for lounging, air conditioning, and an open gas fireplace for added ambience. Each room has a private ensuite bathroom, complete with claw-foot baths and separate showers. The master bathroom also has a secluded outdoor shower.

The sweeping front patio extends out to a heated infinity pool – think summer poolside barbeques. There is an outdoor gas fireplace with seating and exterior music for those still summer nights.

For added privacy guests can land a helicopter directly at the cottage, and departures and arrivals can be conducted in a way the no other guests would know you are hidden away at Wharekauhau. The house also has its own remote accessed electronic security gate.

DAY GUESTS
Wharekauhau Country Estate welcomes day visitors to the lodge to enjoy some of the experiences and hospitality that has made Wharekauhau famous. Our Trust The Chef lunch dining; Relaxing treatments in the Hauora Day Spa; An adventurous ATV Quad bike trail; A competitive sporting clay target shoot, (Or all in one day) are all options for your special day out It is essential that reservations are made in advance. The team at the lodge is more than happy to help plan your perfect day!

TRUST THE CHEF
As much as we dislike admitting it, when it comes to food, the chef does know best, and we trust his knowledge! The talented team in the kitchen create a 4 course degustation-style tasting menu each day, (Amuse bouche + 4 course set menu, with options for main course + petit fours).

The inspiration behind the menu is to showcase the bounty that we harvest from our local region, paying particular homage to the natural systems at play. The pastures, streams, coastline, forests, gardens and orchards are a proverbial natural grocery store for us to seek produce, and inspiration.

Looking further afield, our suppliers are people we know and trust, who follow similar guiding principles and practices. We believe food is a fabulous medium for people to bond over, share stories, and break bread. We would be thrilled to share this menu and our concept with you.

HIGHT TEA
The first Sunday of every month from March-December we channel our inner Great Gatsby and enjoy some croquet and pétanque on the games lawn and host a classic high tea in the lodges main dining room.

DAY SPA
After 2021 & 2022 we all need a little day to recover, relax and treat ourselves!! This is the Wharekauhau version of the ultimate spa-day! Escape to the coast for a relaxing day out. Arriving at the lodge you can slip into a cosy robe, and sip a welcome glass of Champagne poolside.

The only stress is the choice between a 60 minute relaxing massage, or a 60 minute facial at the Hauora Spa. When you are well relaxed you will be guided to your table in the main lodge to enjoy one of our famous Trust The Chef lunch dining experience.

THE FARM
Behind Wharekauhau’s achingly-beautiful farmland surroundings is a hugely successful farming operation that put it on the map in the mid-1800s.

One of the oldest Romney studs in the land with a heritage that dates back to the 1840s.This vast 3,000-acre estate is dotted with Romney sheep roaming among the Black Angus cattle and is considered one of New Zealands premier coastal sheep stations.

The farm is managed by expert Farm Manager Bradley Riggs who keeps a close eye on his growing flock. “Every season breathes new life and magic across Wharekauhau, highlighted by the arrival of 10,000 spring lambs and the seasonal muster to shear the flock, the place is just magic day-in, day-out”

CELLAR & WINERIES
The estate is home to a 5,000 bottle wine cellar sprawling through three interlinked rooms. We believe that wine cellars are more than just places to store and manage a collection of vintages. We see it as an space that gives an intimate and deeply personal insight into Wharekauhau.

We are proud supporters of our local wine country – Martinborough, and the wider New Zealand wine industry. We specifically seek out wines of high quality, integrity interest, and champion the smaller producer.

In the cellar one will find the private ‘Sommeliers Table’ tasting and dining room. An exceptional spot grow your knowledge, explore new and rare wines, or learn a little more about our collection of Foley Wines & Lighthouse Gin under the personal guidance of our inhouse Sommelier.

Lodge owner Bill Foley is also the founder of Foley Wines. We share in his passion for vineyards that produce high quality wines each with a unique story of New Zealand to tell, our wineries are linked by a common unrelenting purpose; to make great wine that people love to drink around the world – made by land & hand.

LIGHTHOUSE GIN
On the southern-most tip of the North Island of New Zealand, under the watch of the iconic Cape Palliser lighthouse, Lighthouse Gin is a harmonious blend of pure mountain spring water, sourced here at Wharekauhau Estate, with hand-zested naval oranges, Yen Ben lemons and hints of native botanicals – including leaves of the peppery native botanicals – to create a premium gin of exceptional flavour and complexity.

SUSTAINABILITY JOURNEY
Our sustainability journey is an ever evolving one, however one we are deeply committed to. ‘Travel Deeper’ is a concept that means taking a moment to slowdown and scratch beneath the surface, and understand at a much deeper level how the property fits within its eco-system and its community.

Wharekauhau Country Estate is deeply committed to, and invested in, ensuring an experience that is highly memorable, yet low impact on our natural resources. As a company we recognise we are in a unique position to be role models, leaders and ambassadors in the community.

We have the potential to inspire and strengthen our community, which is our core foundation. In addition to being role models we have the privilege of being the current guardians of this remarkable whenua (land) known as ‘Wharekauhau’.

We acknowledge and respect those that have come before us, and those that will experience this in years to come. We wish to be the absolute best ‘runholders’ of the land we can be, and to ensure all those that visit become engaged in helping us continue this legacy.

SOUTH WAIRARAPA
The Wairarapa is the rural province in which we are situated. It extends from the southern shores below Wharekauhau, North up the centre of the lower North Island, and spreads across to the Eastern coast of the North Island. It is very much a rural, rugged, a somewhat ‘un-explored’ province.

The term ‘Wairarapa’ translates to ‘Glistening Waters’ – This is in reference to the shimmering lake surface that Lake Wairarapa can produce in the summer months. Some of the regional highlights of the Wairarapa include;

Lake Ferry is located less than one hour from Wharekauhau, on the shores of Lake Onoke and Palliser Bay. This popular spot is known for its superb fishing and surfing, its unique environmental assets and its fascinating history. European settlers brought sheep and cattle into the area in 1844, following the coastal route from Wellington to Lake Onoke.

These runholders were the first to establish pastoral farming in New Zealand. Following a drowning in 1850, a ferry service across the lake was established. The ferryman needed accommodation and a supplement to his income so a liquor license was issued, and the Lake Ferry Hotel opened in 1851.

Lake Ferry Hotel is home to great Whitebait Fritters, Fresh Flounder, and Paua. A lot of local history is depicted in the photographs hanging from the walls.

Ngawi and Cape Palliser are small settlements that embraces the rugged beauty of the coastline. Pronounced ‘Nar-wee’ is a small fishing / holiday town within five kilometres of Cape Palliser. Ngawi has one claim to fame – more bulldozers per head of population than anywhere else.

The bulldozers are used to haul the commercial fishing boats in and out of the water as there is no wharf or alternative access to the ocean other than the beach, which can be notoriously rough at times.

Further South is the Cape Palliser peninsula. The Southern-most tip of the North Island. Home to the historical Cape Palliser lighthouse and the large population of brown fur-seals and sea lions.

This shopping gem, just 45 minutes North of the lodge, has beautifully restored Victorian wooden buildings that house stylish and interesting specialty stores, artisan crafters, boutiques, cafes and restaurants. Greytown offers the antithesis of big box shopping or bland and samey malls you find in many large centres these days.

WELLINGTON
Wellington is often described as the ‘Coolest Little Capital in the World’. A bay-side, walking city with a big personality. The city has a wonderful vibrant restaurant scene, and is known for its relaxed coffee culture.

Wharekauhau can arrange a driver and guide to show you this wonderful city. Please inquire via reservations@wharekauhau.co.nz to get a specific quote on how you would like to spend your ‘Wellington-Day’.

The waterfront is home to the national museum of New Zealand – TE PAPA. This is a great way to spend a few hours, or more, and get a deeper understanding of New Zealand’s history, social culture, and art scene. A favourite experience is to pre-arrange a private tour behind the scenes and be guided through the stories of what the museum vaults hold.

Spend a few hours with the talented team at WETA FILMS. Weta films are the special-effects wizards who have been recognized with a number of film industry awards for their work on projects such as; Lord of The Rings, The Hobbit, The Adventures of Tintin, Avatar, Thunderbirds, King Kong, and many many more.

Take a guided tour of their workshop, and meet some of the artists who can show you some of their specific make-up, prosthetic talents that have made Weta Films the go-to company for special effects.

MARTINBOROUGH
John Martin is regarded as the town’s founder and set out the first streets in the pattern of Union Jack in the 19th century. Many of the town’s streets are named after foreign cities visited by Martin.

Before Martinborough was established, the southern part of the region was known as ‘Waihenga’, a point that seems to be lost at times in the history of the district. A feature is the colonial architecture, one example of which is the historic Martinborough Hotel, built in 1882.

Martinborough has been producing wines, notably Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris & Chardonnay since the late 70s/early 80s. It contributes roughly 3% of wine to the total New Zealand wine production, however punches well above this percentage when it comes to winning global awards.

Martinborough has a warm micro-climate, with hills to the east and west, and a long Pacific-influenced valley sweeping up from the South. Almost all the vineyards are in thin ribbons around the northern and eastern sides of the town, and the Te Muna Valley terrace to the East. All follow dry, stony riverbeds, which provide appropriate soils for viticulture.

As with any great wine region tourism soon followed, and the town has grown to be a vibrant summer hub and plays host to a number of small restaurants, artisans, and annual fairs.

It is completely normal to find groups of cyclists leisurely cycling the flat, tree-lined roads between vineyard stops. It is a little town where laughter, music and wine fills the air and certainly brings the community together.

EXPERIENCES
Immerse yourself in the warmth and atmosphere of life at Wharekauhau. Whether you’re relaxing with a crackling fire and watching the sea, sharing laughter and wine in the sunny kitchen, or riding an ATV across the black sand beach, your stay will be a memorable one. When you’re here, you’re family.

MARTINBOROUGH WINE TOUR
Enjoy a sampling from some of our favourite boutique wineries situated in close proximity to Wharekauhau. Discover the pleasures of the local wineries, tasting some of the world’s best Pinot Noir, and Chardonnay.

International wine experts rate Martinborough as one of the finest wine growing regions in New Zealand and its Pinot Noir on par with anything that Burgundy has on offer. This tour is a great introduction to the region.

Your personal guide will chauffeur you around a selection of vineyards and introduce you to a number of the vibrant characters that make up our small wine village. Included with this tour will be lunch at one of the vineyard cafes or at one of the excellent cafes in the village where you will also have the opportunity to visit the boutique shops.

SOIL BARRELL CELLAR PASSION
Three of the biggest influences in great wines combine in a one day tour. Look, see, smell, touch, and most importantly taste the influence that, the soil, the barrels, the vintage and the passion have over our tiny region.

The Martinborough wine region has been growing vines for about 40 years. A young region by comparison globally, but one of the oldest in the New Zealand wine world. Enjoy the rare opportunity to get past the cellar door and into the private cellars of some of the craftsmen of our region.

Without giving all of our secrets away some of the highlights of the day out would include; A walk and taste through one of the award winning vineyards…Drawing samples straight from the barrel and tasting the wine before it even hits the bottle…. A trip into the private cellar one of the private cellars to sample some of the older vintages from the region; and a few other ‘hidden gems’ of the region.

HAUORA SPA
For over a century Wharekauhau has been regarded as much more than a lodge or a farm. The lands special spirit has captivated, inspired, and resonated deeply with those that have experienced Wharekauhau. …It is a place where the thunderous Pacific waves meet the wind-swept black-sand beaches;…

A place where the mountains seem to rise up out of the ocean and kiss the clouds;… A place that the naturally dramatic surroundings can influence healing, self-consciousness, and provide a distinct sense of place and calmness…

Hauora, (Pronounced; Ho-ore-a), is a Maori philosophy of total health and well-being, and we believe it pays great tribute to the people, and energy of the land, past and present.

WAIRARAPA ARTISAN TOUR
Join one of the guides for a day trip into the villages around the South Wairarapa to visit some of the small artisans that take great pride in crafting small products of the highest quality. We spend some time visiting an olive grove, chocolate provider, honey produce and local lavender farm.

STAR GAZING
After dinner spend the remainder of your evening under the stars with a passionate local astronomer. The Wairarapa is now the home to New Zealand newest and largest dark-sky reserve meaning the clarity of our night sky is assured and protected. From the comfort and intimacy of your own Cottage Suite terrace you’ll have a memory of a lifetime!

HELILUNCH
Lift off from the Wellington central city airport, and fly East, up and over the Remutaka Range, and out over the dramatic Palliser Bay. You will touchdown on the rolling front lawn of Wharekauhau Country Estate, where you are greeted by a glass of Champagne. Enjoy a relaxing multi-course lunch at the lodge, before flying back over the mountain divide and returning to the central city.

THE ADVENTURERS DAY OUT 
Join us at the lodge at 9am for a farmhouse morning tea, followed by venturing out on an ATV quad bike tour of the coast and estate. Back at the lodge you are welcome to use the locker-rooms to get changed into your afternoon attire. Sink into an afternoon of relaxed fine dining with our Trust The Chef menu.

ATV QUAD BIKING
Get out and about in true adventure-style! Lick the salt from your lips, and brush the sand out of your hair. This is one of the greatest ways to see, and connect with the landscape of Wharekauhau. Ideal for the adventurous, these bikes are loads of fun.

We’ll give you 20 minutes of tuition and you can enjoy a great way to travel along the black sand beaches, over scenic riverbanks and along open fields in the company of an experienced guide. Protective clothing provided.

THE SIGNATURE FOLEY WINE FLIGHT 
Exclusive to guests of Wharekauhau Country Estate is the chance to discover the valleys of the upper South Island, and the terrace of Martinborough. Get up close and personal with the landscapes and vineyards that the lodge owners Bill and Carol Foley fell in love with.

When the Foley family first fell in love with New Zealand they found the Marlborough wine region in the upper South Island. The iconic home of New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc.

This region spans the well-known Wairau Valley, and also the ‘baby brother’ – Awatere Valley. This experience includes tours and tastings of a vineyard in each of the valleys, and showcases the difference in style in two valleys of such close proximity.

Heading back North we fly over the Cape Palliser Lighthouse, and up the rugged East coast, before crossing over the mountain range and into Martinborough where you will be greeted by a Wharekauhau Chef at the vineyard that joined the Foley family only a few months after Wharekauhau did – Te Kairanga. Enjoy a tasting and relaxed luncheon prepared by the chef before lifting off for the final time and returning to the lodge.

BEACH FISHING
Palliser Bay is one of New Zealand’s largest open Bays and when Mother-Nature allows us the perfect conditions, we think there are not many better places to spend an afternoon

The bountiful coastline along Palliser Bay offers a variety of interesting and edible fish. Discover the best spots to fish with professional instruction. Alternatively there is complimentary use of fishing equipment for those wishing to fish without a guide.

SEAL COLONY & LIGHTHOUSE TOUR 
Travel along the rugged coastline to the picturesque, historic fishing village of Ngawi, looking back over Palliser Bay to Wharekauhau. Continue on to one of New Zealand’s largest Brown Fur Seal colonies where seals bask in this unspoiled natural environment.

While there, climb to the top of the lighthouse for magnificent views. On return, stop at the historical Lake Ferry Hotel for famous fish and chips and stunning vistas back over Cooks Strait towards the South Island, and the open ocean through to Antarctica! A great day out for all ages that explores the dramatic southern-tip of the North Island.

CYCLE THE VINES
Part of Martinborough’s wine charm is the fact the vineyards, and their proximity to the village square are all so close. ‘Cycle the vines’ gives you the chance to release your inner-explorer and enjoy that self-guided sense of adventure!

Your guide will transfer you into Martinborough and give you a lay-of-the-land, before setting you up with your bikes for the day. You will have the chance to take the day at your own pace as you self-guide your own wine tour. At the end of the day the guide will meet you and transfer you back to the lodge

The lodge will prepare an active backpack picnic and set you up with all the essentials; bottled water, sunscreen, vineyard map, and some insider tips on different venues and any events happening at them.

GOLF – ROYAL WELLINGTON
Wharekauhau is a short 10 minute helicopter hop, (or 70 minute drive), to the historic Royal Wellington Golf Club, home of New Zealand’s best private members’ parkland course. Situated alongside the Hutt River near Silverstream. Lift off after breakfast for a preferred tee time slot and be back in time for mid-afternoon massages, and sundowners!

Rooms: 16

Price: from 2.604 EUR per night

Source: www.wharekauhau.co.nz

Eichardt’s Private Hotel, a Queenstown icon, provides fine accommodation in seven luxurious hotel suites in its historic building situated on a premium lakefront position at the heart of Queenstown’s café and restaurant precinct, with some of the finest international shopping labels an easy stroll away.

The hotel reflects contemporary provincial elegance, its modern features in perfect harmony with the distinctive antiques and luxurious furnishings of this New Zealand icon. Eichardt’s opulent suites invite guests to soak up a sense of quiet before exploring one of the world’s truly remarkable locations.

Eichardt’s sets its own standard for gracious, luxury accommodation with the confident strokes and flawless symmetry that is the hallmark of New Zealand designer Virginia Fisher, married seamlessly with every amenity you would expect in a world-class hotel.

The hotel’s parlour offers guests the ideal setting for breakfast, with awe inspiring views over Lake Wakatipu. Evening cocktail service with complimentary whiskey selection is enjoyed amidst a background of exquisite antiques and objects d’art.

Eichardt’s Lakefront Apartments, just metres from the main hotel, is perfect for larger parties, families, professionals and longer staying guests. The split level suites are interconnected and can be opened to become a large single accommodation space, or sectioned off for smaller groups.

Eichardt’s Residence, a beautifully appointed three bedroom fully self-contained villa completes the collection. A short walk from the hotel, The Residence allows complete privacy – fully serviced and provisioned by the hotel and supported by concierge services.

For those who demand the height of excellence, The Penthouse is the ultimate in luxury and sophistication. Overlooking the shores of Lake Wakatipu and surrounds, The Penthouse tops the iconic Eichardt’s Private Hotel in pure indulgence.

THE PENTHOUSE 
The Penthouse adorns the top of the brand new Eichardt’s building and enjoys uninterrupted views across Lake Wakatipu to the snow-capped mountains beyond.

With 240m2 of spacious living areas, indoor and outdoor kitchens, two large bedrooms, marble bathrooms, sauna, spa and Queenstown’s largest private terrace, The Penthouse is the ultimate in luxury accommodation.

Exquisitely designed, the interior is beautifully appointed with sumptuous leather sofas and fully automated lighting, heating and entertainment systems. The stunning kitchen features Gaggenau and Sub Zero appliances, a granite island bench and further mountain views.

LAKE VIEW SUITES
Featuring expansive views over Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding mountains, our Lake View suites offer a sumptuous environment where you can relax in the super king bed with signature designed throw or in front of the cosy fireplace.

Partake in an Eichardt’s exclusive Pinot Noir or local whiskey as you look out over the mountainous peaks whilst the sun sets behind you. Step through the spacious walk in dressing room and enjoy a generous bath, separate shower and double vanity.

MOUNTAIN VIEW SUITES
Featuring views over Queenstown’s vibrant mall towards mountainous peaks from private balconies, the Mountain View Suites are located within the original building with design that reflect upon traditional luxury with the sleek comfort of modernity.

Enjoy the super king bed and personal living space with feature fireplace allowing plenty of space before heading to the walk in dressing room and the double vanity bathroom with separate shower and bathtub.

LAKEFRONT APARTMENTS
The one and two bedroom apartments are a short walk away from the hotel (approx. 75 meters) and are perfect for larger parties, families, professionals and long-stay guests. The split-level apartments are interconnected and can become a large single accommodation space, or sectioned off for smaller groups.

Majestic vistas over Lake Wakatipu and surrounding mountains and luxurious amenities give the Lakefront Apartments all the comfort and style of a home-away-from-home, while guests enjoy full use of all Eichardt’s Hotel facilities, including concierge services, literally just a few steps away.

THE RESIDENCE
The Eichardt’s Residence is located just a short walk from the hotel and is set over three levels with glorious views over Queenstown Bay, to Queenstown Gardens and the Remarkables mountain range.

Hosting three large bedrooms each with split king beds, The Residence is designed with space and luxurious comfort in mind and is ideal for small groups, colleagues, and families with configurations tailored to meet your needs.

The master suite, located on the top floor, is complemented by a gas fire and floor to ceiling windows which open out onto a private balcony with superb views. Large balconies also extend from the lower floor suite and main living area.

EICHARDT’S BAR
Eichardt’s Bar is renowned as a Queenstown icon and a local favourite since 1867. It has a genuine atmosphere, history and ambience unlike anywhere else in the world, offering a welcoming environment for hotel guests, visitors and Queenstown locals alike.

Eichardt’s Bar is a revered Queenstown establishment, city icon and local favourite since 1867. Guests and locals are all invited to step inside and discover a unique atmosphere and genuine service that has existed on the shores of Lake Wakatipu for more than 150 years. A contemporary nod to an age gone but not forgotten.

The site of Eichardt’s Bar was once nothing more than a woolshed, erected at a time when Queenstown was a mere rural sheep station. The discovery of gold rapidly grew Queenstown’s prosperity, creating opportunities for business, trade and the establishment of a town, from which the hotel and bar rose. Eichardt’s Hotel and Bar were pioneers of hospitality service in Queenstown in the 1800s and the establishment has never forgotten its early beginnings.

The atmosphere and decor inside Eichardt’s Bar is an ode to our heritage. Sofas sit adjacent a homely fireplace, complemented by elegant furnishings acknowledging eras both old and new. Our passionate team are devoted to your experience, ensuring that everything from service to the menu is of the highest standard.

Offering a unique atmosphere and genuine service, guests will enjoy signature cocktails, selected regional wines and exquisite food in elegant, fireside surroundings.

With pristine high-country farmland, native bush and Central Otago wine country on our doorstep, our team takes inspiration from the environment, handpicking vegetables and sourcing meat from local farmers to create a fine dining experience for guests and visitors alike. Eichardt’s Bar also offers whiskey or wine flights and inspired cocktails to enjoy.

VAULT SPA
Hide away in our historic Vault Spa where your therapist will tailor a rejuvenating treatment plan just for you. The most secure room in the Hotel seems like the perfect place for a sanctuary.

Located in the heritage wing of Eichardt’s Private Hotel, the Vault Spa offers an exclusive bolthole to hotel guests and visitors alike. Originally a woolshed, Eichardt’s was erected in 1862 and quickly became a first-class establishment due the discovery of gold in the region.

The Old Gold Vault, dating from 1887, is now up to date, comprising a generous private treatment room offering unique, restorative therapies suitable for up to two people, bathroom, and a relaxing lounge room, promising a serene and rejuvenating experience for the guests of Eichardt’s.

Enhance your time in The Vault Spa by adding some of our most delightful treats to your retreat, from bubbles to our signature cocktails, petit fours to our legendary chowder, plus read our range of included drinks and dietary information.

WEDDINGS IN NEW ZEALAND
With a breath taking backdrop, elegant decor, five-star service and the convenience of a central location in the heart of the city, Eichardt’s Private Hotel is the dream wedding location. For Australians, a short three hour flight transports you to a location that feels worlds away, with ease of planning logistics close to home, and inexpensive travel costs.

For those who dream of a wedding in a far flung location, Queenstown’s inimitable beauty and otherworldly surrounds make for one of the most unique celebrations and honeymoon adventures, well worth the travel.

CORPORATE EVENTS
Eichardt’s is the ideal multi-venue space for corporate retreats and group events for guests visiting Queenstown. Enjoying premier locations and a reputation for five-star service, the collection is the ideal multi-venue location for your next corporate event in Queenstown.

Eichardt’s is designed to groups of varies sizes, with options to accommodate up to 60 and cater for seated and standing functions up to 200. Our menus feature a premium selection of dishes both inspired by and sourced from our lake and mountain backdrop.

Our menu include: Luxury Canapes, Choice Menus, Sharing Menus, Gourmet BBQ, Full & Half Day Delegates packages and Continental Platters. Our bar features a premium selection of local and international wines and beers. Handcrafted premium cocktails by our expert bartenders are available upon request.

EICHARDT’S HISTORY
Our story begins before Queenstown was a city, when the landscape was vacant of marked streets and buildings. A man, originally from Pembrokeshire in Wales, sailed past the Remarkables mountain range along New Zealand’s longest lake, arriving on the shores of Lake Wakatipu in search of land for farming.

His journey and the discovery of gold in the region would prove to be instrumental in our establishment, cementing Eichardt’s Private Hotel in the history of this city.

In 1859, William Gilbert Rees arrived in Queenstown, surveying the area for pastoral land suitable for sheep farming. Accompanied by fellow explorer Nicholas Von Tunzelmann, Rees was the first European to settle the area and over the coming years, he would become an integral figure in the town’s development and a name that would have a lasting legacy in Queenstown.

Rees officially settled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu in 1860-61, establishing a homestead on Run 356 and erecting the first building in the town – a humble woolshed. Where the woolshed once stood is today the site of our main building. Rees’ intentions to farm sheep by the lake were shortlived.

“So much of the local history has taken place in this spot. The cavalcade of colourful characters which have come and gone have congregated at Eichardt’s. They have all contributed some part to the history and should not be forgotten.” A.M. Miller, Queenstown District Historical Society President, 1975.

In November 1862, gold was discovered in the nearby Shotover River and Rees found himself called forth from farming duties and thrown into the midst of a gold rush. Prospectors, miners and opportunists began to descend on Queenstown, and Rees’ homestead run was soon declared an official goldfield from which the main business area would develop.

An entrepreneurial spirit quickly arose from Rees and within the first few weeks of the rush, he turned to hotel-keeping. As soon as the shearing was over, the woolshed was converted into a hotel and given a wooden facade.

An establishment for the purposes of accommodation and service emerged and Rees was soon joined in partnership by Sergeant-Major Hugh William Bracken. At this time, the hotel was named the Queen’s Arms and was one of seventeen licensed and unlicensed hotels in the area during the height of the goldrush.

Over the next three years, the hotel would continue to grow in prominence, becoming a first-class establishment in the town. In 1866, Rees entered into partnership with Albert Eichardt, who became the proprietor of the hotel during the same year.

In 1867, Eichardt and C.C. Boyes bought the hotel outright and in 1868, Albert Eichardt married Julia Shanahan, the former proprietress of the hotel and dining room manager.

By the following year, Eichardt would become the sole proprietor of the hotel, which was renamed Eichardt’s Queen’s Arms Hotel and later known simply as Eichardt’s Private Hotel. As the gold glint faded and Queenstown shifted from a mining settlement to a town with more permanence, the hotel began to cater to a new kind of patronage – tourists.

These were developmental years for Eichardt’s, encouraged by the fortitude of several individuals. Though Albert Eichardt was instrumental in the progression of the hotel, his wife Julia Eichardt would prove to be just as integral to the establishment and an admirable Queenstown figure, even to this day.

After Albert’s sudden death in 1882, Julia took over operations of the hotel, remaining there from 1863 until her untimely death, aged 54, in 1892. Julia was well-liked for her general disposition and kindly manner, and renowned for assisting the poor and needy in the district.

Of her many achievements through her time spent at Eichardt’s, one was bringing electricity to the hotel, making it the first building to have electricity in Queenstown.

The degree of reverence she commanded was reflected at her funeral; the town closed during the afternoon as a mark of respect and the funeral cortege consisted of some 400 mourners, with another 100 gathering at the cemetery.

Even to this day, Julia Eichardt is remembered as a successful businesswoman, with a generous, compassionate and strong disposition. Her invaluable contributions to Eichardt’s and legacy in the city are honoured by the hotel today through our female led management team.

These women embody Julia’s spirit, providing a genuine service to guests and commitment to upholding the hotel’s reputation as a first-class establishment.

QUEENSTOWN
Located in Queenstown’s central precinct, the airport is a 15-20 minute drive away. We offer airport transportation in our private luxury vehicles or aboard our cruising yacht, the Pacific Jemm. Queenstown is a four-season, year-round city, and choosing a time to visit is entirely dependent on exactly what you want to take away from your time here.

Speak to our highly knowledgeable team to plan the perfect itinerary for your trip to Queenstown. Our travel experts have created a summer compendium for you to browse with seasonal activities from a range of key partners to enhance your stay. Pre-booking is essential, email to enquire now.

SPRING
September, October & November. Temperatures span from 8 degrees C to 22 degrees C with crisp mornings and a mixture of lots of sunshine and rain. The perfect weather for all water activities, visiting wineries or fishing. The cooler mornings also mean you can catch good trails at the end of the ski season and relax afterwards with a massage.

SUMMER
December, January & February. Daytime temperatures span from 20 degrees C to 30 degrees C offering long sunny days for full day adventures. We recommend going on a local hike or even a Great Walk, mountain biking or cycling the vineyards, or attending a summer event.

AUTUMN
March, April & May. Temperatures can fluctuate from below zero to 25 degrees C with clear, settled days, cool evenings and gorgeous sunsets. Autumn provides some of the most picturesque colourful scenery for keen photographers, golfers, and day trampers, whilst the days are filled by a variety of festivals and events. Off-peak means that it is generally quieter and perfect for those looking to escape the crowds.

WINTER
June, July & August. Temperatures range between zero to 8 degrees C with frosty mornings, clear blue skies and the most amazing snow-capped mountain views. The perfect location for skiing, snowboarding and glacier helicopter trips. Winter is the best time for cruising on Lake Wakatipu with typically still waters and no wind.

GOLF
Golf lovers enjoy making the trip to Queenstown for the state-of-the-art golfing facilities and stunning lake and alpine scenery. From family-friendly 9-hole courses to the internationally celebrated 18-hole championship courses, a golfing challenge awaits you in Queenstown. Located within 20 minutes are three of the most prestigious courses in New Zealand. Queenstown invites you to test your game on the most picturesque courses in the world.

RIDE
Surrounded by majestic mountains and set on the shores of crystal clear Lake Wakatipu, the natural beauty and the unique energy of the region create the perfect backdrop for a cycling day of adventure and exploration. From racing down steep terrain to quiet lakeside trails, Ventouro offer Bespoke guided tours to suit you.

SKI
Queenstown offers one of the longest snow seasons in the Southern Hemisphere, welcoming skiers and snowboarders from June to September. There are three ski fields within Eichardt’s backyard with breathtaking alpine scenery and wonderful terrain for all levels. Our team can assist in mountain transportation and gear hire is easily arranged.

HIKE
From the Remarkables mountain range to the shores of Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown is surrounded by striking natural beauty. For guests who wish to explore the landscape by foot, there are numerous hikes and walking tracks to explore varying in level, duration, and distance, suitable for every guest.

LUXURY CRUISE ON LAKE WAKATIPU
With Eichardt’s Private Hotel sitting on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, and visible from most of the windows, it makes perfect sense to explore it! Eichardt’s Hotel has the means to do it; Pacific Jemm is our 80ft luxury cruising yacht.

Enjoy a 3-night luxury Queenstown stay at Eichardt’s Private Hotel, featuring a private cruise on Pacific Jemm, offering plenty of ways to watch the lake go by, whether it be at sunset or mid-day.

TOUR
Central Otago is home to world class wines, breathtaking landscapes and home to many Artists. Take the opportunity to have a tailor-made day with a private vehicle and guide to discover what makes our region so worth visiting.

FLY
Deep within Fiordland National Park lies Milford Sound, New Zealand’s most stunning natural attraction. The fiord’s cliffs rise vertically from the dark waters, mountain peaks scrape the sky and waterfalls cascade downwards from as high as 1000 meters. The versatility of the helicopter is admirably suited to this diverse terrain, ensuring enhanced visibility and unrivalled safety to experience this incredible landscape.

Website: www.eichardts.com

Rooms: 14

Price: from 634 EUR per night

With over two miles of stunning coastline, four private beaches, and countless intimate coves, Helena Bay Lodge is the ultimate romantic escape.

Helena Bay Lodge is a delightfully intimate retreat located in the northeast corner of New Zealand’s North Island. Here, amidst the sound of crashing waves and stunning views over the South Pacific Ocean, guests will find a home away from home.

Guests will enjoy exploring the individual rooms of the main house decorated with eclectic artwork and treasures, which the owners have collected during their travels around the globe. These captivating and fascinating pieces complement the opulent interior design.

Helena Bay Lodge hosts a maximum of five individual couples accommodated in five luxury suites named after New Zealand native birds.

All the Suites have extensive balconies with views overlooking Helena Bay’s beaches and beyond to the South Pacific Ocean. Leica binoculars are provided for the opportunity to view bird-life, visiting whales and dolphins, and vessels tracking across the bay out to sea.

The inspiration for the architecture of the Lodge came from a desire to achieve timeless legitimacy in the region. Facilities are generous and include a gym, sauna, massage room, a 25-metre heated swimming pool, library, lounge areas, informal and formal dining areas, and an outdoor firepit.

Served on exquisite dinnerware by Villeroy & Boch, meals at Helena Bay Lodge are always a unique experience. Each night the choice of dining venue is yours; an elegant candlelit dinner in front of one of the many roaring log fires or on the terrace looking out to the South Pacific Ocean. These are just some of the fantastic options.

FARMING HISTORY
Helena Bay has followed the typical boom and bust cycles of farming in Northland. The property was cleared for farming around 1910 by Benjamin Le Clerc and his son Ben. The Le Clerc family were early settlers and contributed significantly to the development of the area.

The property was first used as a runoff for the main farm, but in 1931 when Ben married, it became his farm, and he moved there with half of his father’s stock – 80 cows in total. In 1960 Ben’s son Peter married, and as was the tradition, he took over the Helena Bay farm.

In the early 1970s, Peter amalgamated the two farms, moving the dairy operation to the original farm. Helena Bay was converted to a sheep farm which remained until the 1980s when the decision was made to revert it to a dry stock farm due to economic factors.

In 1987, after 27 years of farming the property, Peter Le Clerc retired. The stockbroker Mike Daniels purchased the property. He decided to retrench and gave up the lease on the Mohei block. Like many New Zealand farmers, he was drawn into the potential returns offered by plantation pines, and he planted 90ha of pines on the property, which remain today.

The poor returns of coastal farming limited the investment that could sensibly be made into the property. In 2007 Helena Bay was purchased by the current owners. A new lease was entered into with the owners of the Mohei block bringing the farm back to its original size of 304ha (750 acres), allowing for lower intensity farming.

A Wagyu beef breed programme was introduced in partnership with New Zealand’s leading Wagyu breeding co-operative Firstlight. The pine forest was assessed and registered for carbon consumption and took on a new role as a carbon sink rather than pine production. The property consumes 50,000 tons of carbon per annum, making Helena Bay very carbon negative.

ROOMS & SUITES
Each of the five luxury suites features a super king bed dressed with carefully chosen, sumptuous hand-made linens, hypoallergenic pillows and duvets, and luxurious towelling. The bathrooms showcase exquisite mosaic tiling, complemented with refined accessories and delightful guest robes.

Various eco-friendly and locally crafted amenities provide the finishing touches to ensure that every element of the experience at Helena Bay Lodge exudes sophistication and luxury. Leica binoculars are provided for the opportunity to view bird life, visiting whales and dolphins, and vessels tracking across the bay out to sea.

Our two 1,450 square-foot Villa Suites with exquisite sea views and full air conditioning. Each has a separate living room; these can be interconnected to accommodate a party of four travelling together. These suites also feature real log-burning, gas-ignited fireplaces.

Our three 700 square-foot Junior Suites – Hihi, Kea & Tui – have gorgeous ocean views and full air conditioning. Two of these suites can be twin configuration, subject to availability.

THE MAIN HOUSE
For this reason, styling ideas were taken from early European buildings such as the Treaty House in Waitangi, Pompallier Mission House in Russell, Te Waimate Mission House in Kaikohe, and the Stone Store in Kerikeri. Modern materials were used, but the appearance is of a building that could have been built a century ago.

The building’s base is clad in Northland sedimentary schist, sourced from a nearby quarry, that formed part of the ocean floor 30 million years ago. Fragments of ancient coral, crustacean, and mollusc shells have been captured within the stone. Construction of the Lodge began in 2010 and was completed in 2016.

Guests will enjoy exploring the individual rooms of the main house decorated with its eclectic artwork and treasures, which have been collected by the owners during their travels around the globe. These captivating and fascinating pieces complement the opulent interior design.

DINING
Each night the choice of dining venue is yours. An elegant candlelit dinner in front of one of the many roaring log fires or perhaps on the terrace looking out to the South Pacific Ocean. During the day, poolside lunches or a picnic on one of our private beaches are available. Whatever your mood, the chefs and Lodge staff are on hand to look after your every wish.

Helena Bay has brought the celebrated Michelin starred Ristorante Don Alfonso 1890 of southern Italy to New Zealand. Under the direction and the influence of Don Alfonso’s philosophy of respecting the local food culture while incorporating the age-old traditions of the Sorrento peninsula and the Amalfi Coast, fine dining defines the hospitality experience at Helena Bay.

Significant investment has been made at Helena Bay to offer guests ‘Estate to Plate’ cuisine. The menus, which change daily, are created following the Don Alfonso philosophy.

THE FORMAL LOUNGE LOGGIA
The Formal Lounge Loggia is set up for you outside, where you can admire the stunning sea views. Don’t worry about getting cold as your dining is set up next to our outside fire-place. With prior notice, we will have your exclusive evening arranged and tailored to suit your requirements.

THE DEN 
The Den is our smallest, most intimate private dining area. Comfortably seating two, this intimate room hosts our library along with a log fire. You will also find a selection of board games to enjoy. The Den is a cosy space to spend a romantic evening with your loved one.

MASSAGE THERAPY
We invite you to indulge in an authentic and personalised massage therapy treatment. Our experienced and highly qualified massage therapists will tailor your massage therapy to offer a comprehensive and holistic approach. After a thorough consultation, our therapists will offer advice on the most beneficial personalised massage therapy to achieve optimal results,

THE SWIMMING POOL
The central courtyard of the lodge surrounds a spectacular 25-metre heated swimming pool which is kept at 28°C (82°F) and opens from 5.00am to 10.00pm. The outdoor pool is ideal for gentle morning exercise or to unwind after a busy day. Afterwards, why not enjoy the opportunity to lounge on our poolside terrace and soak up the sun.

SAUNA
The purpose of a sauna is to cleanse the body through perspiration. This involves opening the skin’s pores and flushing out the impurities in the body through the process of sweating.

The effects of the sauna are numerous and varied. Many people find that the sauna relieves the symptoms of minor illnesses such as colds, revives the muscles after tough physical exertion, and clears the complexion. The sauna experience will often leave you feeling very much alive. Your senses will be sharpened, and your tactile sensitivity heightened.

PLUNGE POOL
The benefits of a ‘hot sauna, cold plunge’ go way back to the Nordic cultures who originated the technique – a twenty-minute sauna session, followed by a cold water dip or cool shower.

Ideally, the hot/cold exposure is repeated until the body is completely relaxed. Sometimes referred to as the Nordic Cycle, the ‘hot sauna, cold plunge’ technique is intense. The combination of hot and cold triggers the blood vessels to constrict rapidly, elevating blood pressure. The benefits of this are both physical and psychological and immediately noticeable.

THE GYM
Looking for a way to start your day full of energy? Our gymnasium is open 24 hours a day and is fully equipped to include a treadmill, exercise bike, elliptical cross trainer, upper body trainer, rowing machine as well as free weights and gymnasium accessories. We have complimentary water and soft drinks available and the Spa is just next door

MAORI HISTORY
This region has a long history of Māori and European habitation; there are thousands of archaeological sites in Northland. The coastline boasts many prominent pā sites (former Māori fortifications).

There are five pā sites on Helena Bay Estate. An archaeologist’s estimate suggests that up to 250 people may have called this land their home. With direct access to the ocean providing an abundant food source and the terrain affording excellent defences, this is not surprising.

There is clear evidence of cultivation on the property, with kumara pits and terraces still visible today. During the Lodge’s construction, two ko (Māori digging instruments) were unearthed and sent to the National Museum for preservation.

The first Europeans here were of Croatian descent. In the early days, Helena Bay had a first-class reputation for wine production. Focus on the farm soon moved to dairy and sheep, followed by establishing pine forestry and dry stock.

The Māori name for Helena Bay is Mimiha, named after a small black fish. The name Helena Bay came from the first European woman settler, Mrs Helena Hutchinson. She and her husband Charles had the first store at the bay.

Mrs Hutchinson was a kind woman who worked with local Māori, teaching and nursing. That the bay was eventually named after her shows the deep respect held for Helena Hutchinson.

ACTIVITIES
The wide choice means it is up to you to decide how much – or how little – you would like to do each day of your stay at Helena Bay Lodge. For a slower pace, relax and unwind with a massage or facial treatment at our in-house spa, followed by an afternoon at the pool.

For those keen to explore the expanses of the Lodge take a tour of the farm and gardens with one of our staff, cruise the coast on a kayak or paddle-board or take to the sky for a bird’s eye view with a scenic flight in our very own Agusta Westland helicopter.

MOHEI PAVILION
We have a specially designed day pavilion at one of our most beautiful private beaches, Mohei Bay. It houses a kitchenette, bathroom, shower, and sun loungers along with a fabulous outdoor area – perfect for a day escape within the property.

Mohei Pavilion is complimentary and available to book exclusively any time during your stay, or if you are feeling adventurous, you can choose to kayak there. Not only does the pavilion offer complimentary non-alcoholic beverages, we also have a fantastic take-away picnic menu which you can request to be set up at a pre-arranged time.

WALKS ON THE PROPERTY
We have many beautiful walking trails on the property. They are signposted, so don’t worry about getting lost. They showcase the beautiful fauna and flora that New Zealand has to offer. The flora is particularly unique in New Zealand as it has evolved in isolation for millions of years.

Our walking trails will take you through peaceful native bush where you will see varied plant and animal life, including the silver fern or ‘ponga’, New Zealand’s national symbol.

For those choosing a late-night stroll, glow worms can be seen amongst the vegetation in a valley on the property. These gnat larvae use their glowing lights to attract small flying insects into a snare of sticky threads. Their lights resemble a star-filled night sky. Māori call them titiwai, which refers to lights reflected in water.

BIRD WATCHING
The property abounds with a variety of bird life, both native and introduced. Many native species are flourishing, assisted by our comprehensive trapping programme to reduce predators, providing safe habitats for our avian friends.

MOUNTAIN BIKES
Our trails aren’t just for walking; we also have mountain bikes and top-of-the-range electric bikes for you to use. From beginner to advanced, we have marked tracks for every level providing a great way to cover a lot of ground in a short space of time and burn off some calories.

POLARIS 4WD RANGERS
We have electric 4WD Polaris Rangers comfortably seating two persons to use any time during your stay. With over 800 acres to explore, why not make your way to the highest point on our property (near the helipad) to watch the sunset or take a trip to one of our four private beaches.

TENNIS
Our tennis court is open to guests all year round and is floodlit for those who wish to play in the evening. If you don’t have a partner to practise your backhand with, we have a tennis ball machine which simulates playing, along with other various training modes to try. Alternatively, the AstroTurf can be arranged for football, volleyball or badminton.

FARM & GARDEN TOUR
Our Lodge is just as exciting outdoors as it is indoors. With numerous gardens and animals to visit over a diverse and varied landscape, a personalised farm and garden tour with our knowledgeable staff is a must-do whilst staying with us to learn more about the relationship between nature and our reliance on it.

CLAYBIRD SHOOTING
Aim, fire, and experience the thrill of claybird shooting at our purpose-built shooting range. Claybird shooting is a great activity for those who enjoy shooting and want to harness their aim in a safe and cruelty-free environment.

Learn to safely handle a shotgun in the company of a professional instructor, and take aim at the flying orange targets. Follow your tutor’s advice carefully, and you’ll never forget the satisfaction of shattering your first clay!

RURU
Helena Bay Lodge owns and operates RURU – a 14.2m (46.5ft) luxury cruising and fishing vessel. Designed from the keel up with safety and comfort in mind, it comes fully equipped with two bathrooms and a hot freshwater shower.

Spacious indoor and outdoor spaces ensure no matter what the weather, enjoyment with comfort and shelter from the elements is available. Our friendly crew can take care of up to twelve guests at a time.

Ruru is the perfect vessel for fishing the local waters and we have all the equipment required no matter which type of fishing you enjoy. For those wishing to explore the nearby coastline, the Bay of Islands or Poor Knights Islands are a must-do experience.

We also have stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, and snorkeling gear for added close-up enjoyment of marine life. Both full and half-day charters are available and can be customized to ensure everyone makes the most of their stay.

FISHING
Keen on fishing but don’t want to venture out too far? Then why not enjoy an afternoon by the water on our very own pontoon. We have an extensive range of top-quality fishing equipment and can put down burley to attract plenty of fish from the reef waters of Helena Bay where you can find an abundance and vast variety of fish.

Snapper is one of New Zealand’s highly prized eating fish and is often caught off our jetty or surrounding rocks. Bring back any ‘keepers’ and our chefs will prepare and cook it for you – it doesn’t get much fresher than that!

Please be aware that New Zealand has strict marine conservation laws, including the size and quantity of catch. We will provide you with all necessary measuring equipment and will advise you of your catch limit for each species.

KAYAKS & STAND-UP
We have a beautiful and fascinating natural coastline waiting for you to explore. We have top-of-the-range Barracuda kayaks to try, including fishing kayaks and our incredibly lightweight sea kayaks. Not only is it a great way to explore our property from the water, it is also a great way to improve your fitness and strength.

We also have multiple Stand-up paddleboards, a great activity to perfect your balance and get great views as you surf along the sea. Dip beneath the waves and discover a coastal under-water world by making use of our complimentary snorkeling equipment. Spot fish, coral, crustaceans and kelp forests.

GOLF
If you enjoy golf, then look no further. We have some world-renowned courses nearby, just waiting for you to try. Boasting some of the most majestic views in the golfing world, let us organise a bespoke golf tour you won’t forget! We can even arrange a helicopter pick up and drop off for those special courses a little further afield. Fit for a president!

Kauri Cliffs was designed and built by David Harman of Golf Course Consultants Orlando, Florida. Fifteen holes view the Pacific Ocean, six of which are played alongside the cliffs which plunge to the sea. One hour 40-minute road transfer or a 21-minute helicopter flight.

Waitangi Golf Club is a local public golf course providing exciting and ever-changing challenges to the golfer and a tremendous panorama of sea and island views. One hour 10-minute road transfer or 12-minute helicopter flight.

WAITANGI TREATY GROUNDS
Learn New Zealand’s history of how two peoples came together as one under the Treaty of Waitangi, Te Tiriti o Waitangi. This is an absolute must-do for anyone visiting New Zealand. Your tour will take you through native forest with stunning views of the Bay of Islands.

See the intricate carvings, traditional waka (canoe) and experience the hāngi. Not only will you enjoy inspiring Māori cultural performances, you will also discover the momentous events that shaped our nation in 1840.

HORSE TREKKING
Horse trekking is a wonderful way to see the stunning Tutukaka coastline, with expansive views stretching north and out to the Poor Knights Islands.

We work with a boutique provider who will take complete care of you while you enjoy a comfortable ride with their beautiful, well-loved horses through scenic farmland with stunning ocean views and secluded beaches. There is also the added opportunity to swim with the horses in the ocean. Confident beginner, intermediate and advanced riders only.

PRIVATE CHARTER
Another fabulous way to see the Bay of Islands is by catamaran. Whether you relax in the spacious saloon or sit up forward and lounge on beanbags, you will be able to take in a little slice of paradise.

With protected marine life all around in the pristine, calm waters you will explore some of the 144 islands that the Bay of Islands has to offer. There are four kayaks, one stand-up paddleboard, as well as snorkel gear and fins for you to enjoy.

HOLE IN THE ROCK’ DOLPHIN CRUISE
Set off on a three-hour Bay of Islands cruise in search of dolphins and other marine life. Enjoy views from a catamaran Dolphin Seeker and journey right to the end of Cape Brett Peninsula, to the famous Hole in the Rock on Motu Kōkako Island.

THE CREAM TRIP CRUISE
Take a cruise through the Bay of Islands, following the original cream delivery route from 1927. This is the perfect cruise for nature lovers and is the most extensive historical cruise around.

Enjoy sights such as the impressive Black Rocks, experience the famous Hole in the Rock, and explore Urupukapuka Island during the island stopover. For a duration of seven hours – this guided tour really is the cream of the crop.

DIVING
Poor Knights Marine Reserve is a must-do destination for any diver visiting New Zealand and the South Pacific. We can arrange trips to suit every level of experience so anyone can enjoy these world-renowned waters. Why not try our day trip with your own private dive boat picking you up from our pontoon?

HELICOPTER TOURS
Helena Bay Lodge owns the only AgustaWestland 109s Grand in New Zealand. It is a premium, new-generation, light twin-engine helicopter enhanced with the latest global navigation satellite system for all-weather operations.

Under instrument flight rules (IFR), our helicopter can reach speeds of up to 290km/h (155kts) and is flown by navigational reference to instruments and radio or satellite aids. Pilots must be specially trained, endorsed, and regularly checked for application of these skills.

This allows our clients to relax in the knowledge their flight can continue in poor weather or at night. This VIP aircraft features an air-conditioned interior with leather seats, a spacious cabin, high strength airframe, and crash-resistant systems for passenger comfort and safety.

SCENIC FLIGHT
This scenic flight showcases New Zealand’s nearby stunning scenery from the air. Your very own experienced and knowledgeable pilot will be your tour guide and take you over breathtaking views that are not to be missed.

We are happy to tailor-make your day for you. Why not fly right up to the tip of the North Island, Cape Reinga, or be dropped off in Paihia and met by a boat so that you can experience New Zealand from the air and the ocean all in the same day!

WAIHEKE ISLAND WINE TASTING 
Sit back and relax as you enjoy the scenic helicopter flight over the Hauraki Gulf to the stunning Waiheke Island. Let your taste buds come alive as you sample some of the best wines on offer and then sit down to enjoy a delicious lunch at a fabulous island vineyard.

WAITOMO & HOBBITON HELI TRIP 
Travel by helicopter and tick off two amazing attractions New Zealand has to offer in one day! Experience Waitomo and see the thousands of other-worldly glow worms in majestic caves with your own eyes.

The next stop is Hobbiton, where you will have a two-hour private tour of the famous movie set. For an optional add-on, stop off at beautiful Waiheke Island to savour a glass of vino at one of the top wineries the island has to offer.

HELI FISHING
Allow us to organise a rock fishing adventure to remember! Experience a completely private fishing retreat in the rich and diverse marine habitat that New Zealand has to offer.

Not only will you have a bird’s eye view of the stunning scenery making up the land and seascape below, but you might also be lucky enough to see dolphins, whales, and stingrays. The trip duration is roughly six hours and a picnic lunch is included for you to enjoy while waiting for the big one to bite.

HELI TOUR OF CAPE REINGA
This option is for our adventure seekers! You will take flight in our helicopter to Cape Reinga for a tour of the far north, enjoying an aerial view of the famous lighthouse, 90 Mile Beach, and the stunning coastline.

Dune surf your way down the Te Paki sand dunes and get your adrenaline pumping. A short helicopter ride later and you will find yourself in Henderson Bay exploring the remote beaches and scenery on quad bikes. This action-packed day will not disappoint!

SKY DIVING
Take a flight and soak up the spectacular views of the 144 islands that make up the Bay of Islands. Taking off from the Bay of Islands (Kerikeri) airport, experience up to 60 seconds of a free-fall tandem dive, something you’ll never forget. Choose a photo or video package to keepsake the memory, and we guarantee you will be buzzing for the rest of your stay!

PARASAILING
Sit back, relax, and enjoy the beautiful and peaceful scenery of the Bay of Islands parasailing from 1,300ft in the air. You have the option of flying solo, flying tandem, or as a double or triple.

Departing from Paihia, the heart of the area, take the opportunity to feel like a bird and get some great shots from the sky for 10 minutes. Private chartered trips are also available. This trip lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes and can hold up to 12 people on the boat taking turns to parasail.

Website: www.helenabay.com

Rooms: 5

Price: from 799 EUR per night

Hapuku Lodge & Tree Houses is a contemporary country hotel located on a deer breeding farm in the South Island of New Zealand, 12 kilometres North of the renowned eco-marine town of Kaikoura. It sits snugly at the base of the Kaikoura Seaward Mountain Range, with the Kaikoura coast and famed Mangamaunu Bay only a kilometre to the east.

The Lodge provides luxurious accommodation on Kaikoura’s rugged coastline, a place for guests to relax in its intimate indoor/outdoor setting and a place from which they can explore the larger maritime landscape of Kaikoura.

We are a family of Kiwis who moved to California some years ago. We feel fortunate to now split our time between the States and New Zealand. Originally, we came to Kaikoura for its farming environment and to be near the famed surf of Mangamaunu.

As Kaikoura’s eco-marine tourism grew, our labors here evolved. A family full of architects and builders, the idea of creating a contemporary country inn was expanded by the process into Hapuku Lodge + Tree Houses. We continue to learn what’s involved in the process.

TREE HOUSES
The Lodge’s five Tree Houses are unique, nested 10 meters or more above the ground in the canopy of a native Kanuka grove. There are three 1-bedroom Tree Houses, and two “Family” Tree Houses which both have a master bedroom in the upper branches and a somewhat smaller bedroom in the lower branches.

The Tree Houses are designed to complement the natural environment, as your bedroom in the sky. Their large windows bring the tree canopies into the bedroom and provide impressive views of Kaikoura’s dramatic mountains and the Pacific Ocean.

The one-bedroom Tree Houses are perfect for couples, they are warm & inviting with deep soaking tubs, fireplaces and our custom made furniture.

The “Family” Tree House has the same upstairs design along with the downstairs room, designed perfectly with children in mind including a separate bathroom & twin beds. All our Tree Houses, Rooms and Suite tariffs include 3-course gourmet dinners and full breakfasts.

LODGE SUITES  & ROOMS
All of the Lodge rooms are suites which offer large soaking tubs, king beds and balconies that look over the farm’s deer grazing in paddocks adjacent to the Kaikoura mountains. The two Lodge Suites have a well appointed lounge and large bedroom set as king or twin beds.

The sofa in the lounge can be converted to a single bed. The lightfilled Hapuku Room is beautifully furnished with fireplace, writing desk and private entrance. The Lodge Room is a spacious bedroom that may be set as a king or twin beds.

OLIVE HOUSE
Hapuku Lodge + Tree Houses is delighted to now have available our new Olive House. The Olive House is a free standing building that used to house our farm’s olive press. We relocated our press and have turned the building into a beautifully realized three-bedroom suite of rooms. It can comfortably accommodate 3 couples or large families.

The upper floor can be separately occupied as a two-bedroom suite including the lounge, while the ground floor room can be occupied as a stand alone guest room. The ground floor room is wheelchair accessible. Our new digs are the perfect place to unpack your bags and settle in to enjoy the Lodge’s unique environment.

DINING
The area in which the Lodge is located was designated on the first European maps of the district as “Kai Whare”, the Maori term for “house of food”. Today the dining room at the Lodge, with its relaxed and warm atmosphere, is at the heart of the Hapuku Lodge experience.

Here you can watch the food being prepared and chat with our chefs as they prepare your meal. You will realize during your stay that we have a passion for food – for the producing of it, for the preparation and cooking of it and for presenting it.

Our Chef manages all matters relating to the food we serve, from the Lodge’s gardens, in which we grow a good deal of the vegetables and herbs used in the kitchen, the gathering of provisions from local gardeners and producers, sourcing the best meat and fish either directly from the farm or fisherman, the running of the kitchen, the creation of the seasonal menus and the service.

Which is why our guests are prone to say that we have some of the best food in the country. Eating with us will, we believe, enhance and deepen your appreciation of what New Zealand has to offer.

THE BREAKFAST
At Hapuku Lodge we love to provide exquisite meals and memorable culinary experiences for our guests. Our menus focus on available local foods and seasonality.

All the food served in our dining room is prepared in the Lodge’s kitchen, including our breads, stocks, ice cream, jams, jellies, and even the peanut butter. Our Head Chef modifies the menus seasonally to take full advantage of what is fresh and assure that the best game and seafood available is on the plate.

THE LUNCH
At Hapuku Lodge we love to provide exquisite meals and memorable culinary experiences for our guests. Our menus focus on available local foods and seasonality.

All the food served in our dining room is prepared in the Lodge’s kitchen, including our breads, stocks, ice cream, jams, jellies, and even the peanut butter. Our Head Chef modifies the menus seasonally to take full advantage of what is fresh and assure that the best game and seafood available is on the plate.

THE DINNER
At Hapuku Lodge we love to provide exquisite meals and memorable culinary experiences for our guests. Our menus focus on available local foods and seasonality. All the food served in our dining room is prepared in the Lodge’s kitchen, including our breads, stocks, ice cream, jams, jellies, and even the peanut butter.

Our Head Chef modifies the menus seasonally to take full advantage of what is fresh and assure that the best game and seafood available is on the plate. Each evening we serve a full three-course meal, with multiple choices per course.

Each morning guests are treated to a generous continental and cooked breakfast menu. Dinner and breakfast is included in the rate for guests staying overnight with us.

WINE LIST
We offer a select menu of New Zealand wines, sourced primarily from small individually owned wineries. The wines of New Zealand are often favorably compared to the wines of the “old world”. We encourage our guests to explore our selection and judge for themselves.

WEDDINGS IN NEW ZEALAND
We at Hapuku Lodge take great delight in hosting celebrations of love and life. For weddings, commitment ceremonies, and social events we provide a place of celebration and simultaneously a place to relax and experience a unique slice of New Zealand, its people and its fascinating environment.

We can provide within the Lodge grounds exciting and varied settings that allow celebrants to develop a personal stage for their ceremony. The Lodge can accommodate up to 30 overnight guests and its dining room comfortably seats 36 guests for in-house dinners and more when using the outdoor terrace.

To maintain the tranquility of the Lodge and avoid disrupting other guests, larger weddings and related exclusive use events are only held from April 1 to October 30. All arrangements can be made through the Lodge.

CORPORATE RETREATS
Hapuku Lodge + Tree Houses offers a number of light filled meeting and special event spaces for your board meeting, presentation, brainstorming session or whatever the configuration of your groups.

In addition, Hapuku Lodge has numerous indoor and outdoor breakout areas for more informal meetings. We provide high-speed Internet connections and full audiovisual capabilities.

We can provide the Lodge’s signature breakfast to any early morning meeting or gathering; catered lunches; and either the Lodge’s three-course prix-fixe dinner or five-course tasting dinner, with wine pairing if desired.

EXPERIENCE
Kaikoura, with its unparalleled marine life and spectacular landscapes, is one of the world’s premier eco-marine tourism destinations. Indeed, National Geographic has called Kaikoura “A maritime Serengeti” and “a Sea World without Walls”. As a consequence, there is a lot to see and do, both on land and at sea.

AT THE LODGE
While there are many things to do in the wider Kaikoura district, at the Lodge and within its environs there is plenty to do if a guest is so inclined. One can try one’s skill at country and mountain biking with the Lodge’s mountain bikes (and helmets).

A variety of walks can be taken from the Lodge, from short to long, beach to bush, with a picnic basket if desired, including a botanical tour of the local native bush. An ocean fishing trip can be arranged, which can include the opportunity to catch a crayfish.

ON THE WATER
Kaikoura’s coastal waters’ with their rich and abundant food supply provide a perfect habitat for marine mammals and seabirds. As a consequence, the Kaikoura coast is an ideal place to undertake a marine safari.

Kaikoura is home to a permanent population of bachelor sperm whales, which can be visited just a few kilometers offshore. Dolphins and seals are a permanent presence, as is the giant albatross, the largest sea bird in the world, and many smaller ocean bird species.

In fact, to swim with Kaikoura’s dusky dolphins or fur seals is, in our opinion, one of the most enthralling experiences one can have anywhere. There are a number of boat tours available to place the visitor into close contact with an astounding variety of mammals and birds.

If being on the water is unappealing, there are aerial viewing tours available by plane or helicopter from the Lodge, in town or at the local airport; these small aircraft provide close views from the sky of all of Kaikoura’s marine activity.

ON THE LAND
Kaikoura’s rich sea life and fertile land has supported Maori and European settlement for over 900 years. Today the Kaikoura district and township of less than 3,000 persons is home to an eclectic population of fishermen, farmers, surfers, artists, craftspeople, tour guides and accommodation hosts.

Kaikoura’s dependence on the land and sea for its livelihood has led to general community acceptance of the need for sustainability. As a result, Kaikoura became the first community in New Zealand and the second in the world to achieve EarthCheck Benchmark status, the world’s only global tourism environmental certification.

The area offers visitors a number of cultural, outdoor and culinary options. Within the Kaikoura district there is bird-watching, hiking, mountain biking, golf, and lama trekking.

Website: www.hapukulodge.com

Rooms: 12

Price: from 571 EUR per night

The Purerua Peninsula, home to The Landing, is one of the most exquisite places in the world – a coastal paradise of turquoise water and white sands lining a verdant patchwork of rolling farmland and native forests. But the spirit of The Landing goes deeper than the beauty of the ocean and land or the purity of the air.

As one of the earliest sites of settlement and trade in New Zealand, this place has a deep sense of history and warmth that can only be experienced by being here – sharing meals made with ingredients grown and gathered in the region, hearing the stories of the past told by the people who live here, and encountering the places and artefacts held sacred as taonga (treasures).

At The Landing, our guiding principle is to honour and protect the history and landscape of this place so we can continue to share it with others for generations to come.

The property has been developed with the blessing and contribution of local iwi (Māori tribes) and the land where sites of cultural and heritage importance lie within the property are held in a charitable trust to ensure their preservation.

The Landing is the vision and personal passion of Peter Cooper, a Northland-born New Zealander who divides his time between New Zealand and the United States.

The Landing History
The warm and welcoming Northland region has been a centre of cultural exchange for two hundred years.

The Bay of Islands was one of the first regions in New Zealand settled by early Māori voyagers from Polynesia. Rangihoua and Wairoa Bays were inhabited with Māori settlements for centuries before the arrival of the first Europeans, and in 1807, the Māori village of Te Puna – then located at The Landing – was described as ‘the capital of the country’.

In 1840, Te Tiriti o Waitangi (The Treaty of Waitangi), modern New Zealand’s founding document, was signed by the Māori people and the British Crown at Waitangi, just across the harbour from The Landing, making New Zealand a colony of Great Britain.

The Landing’s story begins with a senior Maori chief named Te Pahi who held a pa (fort) in the early 1800s on Motuapo, or Te Pahi’s island, which lies just offshore from The Boathouse at Wairoa Bay.

Te Pahi of the “clear, strong and comprehensive mind” was the first influential Maori leader to visit Australia when he sailed to New South Wales in 1805 to meet with Reverend Samuel Marsden (who later came to New Zealand as a missionary and planted the country’s first grapevines in the Bay of Islands) and Governor Philip King.

Te Pahi impressed British colonial officials with his shrewdness and keenness for trade, encouraging the Europeans towards developing mutually advantageous relations with Māori in New Zealand.

After Te Pahi died, his nephew Ruatara took his place, welcoming Reverend Marsden when he landed at Hohi Bay – a short walk from The Landing – in December 1814. Marsden’s arrival marked the beginning of European settlement in New Zealand.

He preached the country’s first Christian sermon at Hohi Bay on Christmas Day that same year – an event permanently commemorated by the Marsden Cross, situated within Rangihoua Heritage Park, which neighbours The Landing.

On the same brig, Active, that brought Marsden to New Zealand was a young man named Thomas Hansen II, who would be New Zealand’s first permanent non-missionary settler. On a small plot of land at Hohi Bay, at the base of Rangihoua Pa, Hansen and his wife raised 11 children.

Their first-born, Hannah King Hansen, for whom a tall Norfolk Pine that stands at The Landing was said to be was planted, married Captain George Clapham, a whaler, and together they had three children: Maryann, Thomas and Hannah Elizabeth.

Hannah Elizabeth and her husband, George Mountain settled on the Purerua Peninsula, close to Te Puna, and bore a son – Walter Clapham Mountain – who would become a local legend.

In the early 1800s, Walter took over his father’s store and canning factory and began selling alcohol and other much-needed supplies – even running a bootleg distillery hidden in caves on the Peninsula when the law came down on alcohol sales.

“Walter Mountain was a man of action, vision, and charisma. He was also a man of the community, both Māori and Pakeha,” wrote a Northland newspaper when Walter died in 1930. A Māori verse read at his funeral, translates as: “This is a tribute of sorrowful regard for our beloved friend Walter Mountain, who now sleeps his long sleep.

This man was a loyal friend of our parents and a loyal friend of ours. We considered him as our father, in connection with our affairs. Our father was deeply versed in the Māori language and our ways. Depart hence, o friend of ours, to thy place of rest.”

Walter C. Mountain fathered 16 children: 15 daughters and a son, who was named Walter Jr and who lived in the area until 2008. In 1999, Peter Cooper purchased land from the Mountain family with the goal of preserving and developing it – beginning the story of The Landing as it is today.

The Residences
Spacious and relaxed, with breathtaking views from every angle, our architecturally designed, luxuriously furnished Residences are perfectly at one with the landscapes they sit in.

During your stay at The Landing, our staff will provide attentive yet unobtrusive personal service and total flexibility for your activities. Any activity, health and fitness facility or wellness treatment you desire is available on-site at your request.

Cooper Residence
Taking in spectacular 360 degree views of the Bay of Islands from its position atop a headland, the Cooper Residence is an impressive retreat designed to presidential standard.

Built from enduring natural materials and luxuriously furnished in natural tones of flax and earth, the sweeping five-suite Cooper Residence is home to a significant collection of Māori taonga (treasures), historic artefacts, archeological relics and contemporary New Zealand art.

Its spaces range from expansive indoor and outdoor entertaining areas and a grand wine cellar and tasting room, to intimate conversation and contemplation corners, a library, outdoor fireplace and observatory tower deck.

Each of the five bedroom suites has its own character, including the atmospheric retreat of the suite in the residence’s elliptical stone observatory tower.

Envisioned by leading New Zealand architect Pip Cheshire to embody quiet contemporary distinction, the Cooper Residence’s versatile indoor and outdoor spaces can host any gathering, from an intimate evening to a once-in-a-lifetime celebration or corporate event.

A wine-tasting tour of The Landing Winery is included in every overnight stay. For guests at the Cooper Residence, wine-tasting can be arranging in the private wine cellar.

Gabriel Residence
The Gabriel Residence is designed in the style of a contemporary lodge to be a relaxing base from which to explore the extraordinary natural wonders of the Bay of Islands.

Spacious and high-ceilinged, with magnificent views across bush, rolling pasture, wetlands and the sweep of Wairoa Bay, this expansive residence has the feel of a traditional hunting and fishing lodge rendered with modern Pacific flair.

The timber-lined living, entertaining and recreation areas – including three lounges, a huge open-plan entertainer’s kitchen with scullery and games room – flow easily into each other, and through to multiple outdoor spaces.

The generous covered deck enjoys the sea breeze off Wairoa Bay, while smaller covered and open decks and terraces create opportunities for private retreat. The large, sheltered open-air courtyard is ideal for hosting parties or events on warm nights, or long conversations around the fire pit under starlit skies.

Four equal-status king suites sleep eight guests, making the residence ideal for extended families, groups of friends and corporate retreats. The stone lined-bathrooms feature deep baths and capacious showers with the feel of a wellness resort. A wine-tasting tour of The Landing Winery is included in every overnight stay.

Vineyard Villa
This quietly sumptuous haven of natural textures nestles among the vines, overlooking a wetland rich in native birdlife to the sea beyond. Weighty stone walls and layered timber textures imbue the Vineyard Villa with a sense of unmovable calm and enclosure, against the ever-changing colours of the vine-clad slopes surrounding it.

The generous master suite and two equal-status king bedrooms luxuriously accommodate up to six guests, and look out over perfectly framed views of rolling pasture, vines and lush wetlands where kiwi come to feed in the evenings.

The villa sits at the center of a network of walking trails that weave through native bush reserves, wetlands, paddocks and along the coastlines. At the end of the day, a sheltered westward-facing courtyard is the ideal place to enjoy the sunset with a glass of The Landing wine.

In the open-plan living area, morning sun soaks the stone floors, and floor-to-ceiling glass walls roll back on two sides to transform the space into an airy outdoor room.

A well-equipped entertainer’s kitchen looks out across the view, as well as back onto an intimate courtyard garden of flowers and herbs. A wine-tasting tour of The Landing Winery is included in every overnight stay.

The Boathouse
Sitting on the water’s edge at Wairoa Bay, The Boathouse is an airy retreat where idyllic days unfold to the call of seabirds and the lap of the ocean.

Designed with an air of simple luxury, The Boathouse captures the spirit of the quintessential New Zealand holiday – lounging in the sun, enjoying good food and wine with friends and family and spending long days in or on the water.

Huge, barn-style doors slide back to open the relaxed central living space with its soaring cathedral ceiling up to all-day sun and sea air off the calm waters of Wairoa Bay. Less than 150m from the front door is The Landing’s private jetty, the launching point for short or long adventures in the marine playground of the Bay of Islands.

Spaces to enjoy beautiful weather encircle the residence, from a large covered outdoor dining area that can comfortably hosts 20 guests, to sun loungers with the bay at their feet, a beachside outdoor fireplace and pizza oven, and multiple terraces to chase the sun.

The mezzanine king master bedroom is warmed by all-day sun, and a view across rolling pasture. Internal shutters that open to the double-height living space and look through to a view of the bay. Downstairs, a timber-lined twin room opening to the garden offers generous family accommodation.

The Food
At The Landing, your daily menu will be designed to suit your tastes, requirements, mood and itinerary by our head chef using the best seasonal ingredients from the property and region, served in the privacy of your Residence, or packed to take on your day trip for a picnic lunch.

If you love to cook, you can tour our orchards, vegetable and herb garden and free-range henhouse, choosing your own fruit, herbs, vegetables and eggs for a self-catered meal, or spend an afternoon with our head chef learning cooking techniques using our produce or your daily catch from the ocean.

At the Sunday morning farmers’ market in the nearby town of Kerikeri, you can purchase fresh local produce, and honey and olive oil farms, an artisan bakery, an award-winning cheese and yoghurt maker, and a boutique chocolatier are found nearby.

The Wines
The Landing Wines are known for their beautifully crafted tropical fruit and mineral flavours, given depth and complexity by Northland’s long, warm summers and coastal aspect. From vine to bottle, every step of the wine-making process takes place on site, starting in our 23-acre vineyard and finishing at our state-of-the-art winery.

Whether you are a guest staying at The Landing or a visiting enthusiast, our vineyard staff can take you on a guided tour of our Rosé, Syrah, Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, Sangiovese, Montepulciano, Malbec, Cabernet Franc and Merlot plantings, before you spend an afternoon tasting the results at our beautiful hilltop winery designed by Cheshire Architects, with sweeping views over the property.

For guests of The Landing, we offer the opportunity to secure “en primeur” sales of new vintages from the barrel.

The Terroir
Our vineyard stretches across 23 gently sloped acres overlooking Rangihoua Bay. The rolling vineyard is framed by farmland, lush native bush and regenerated wetlands. In 2007, the first Syrah and Chardonnay vines were planted at The Landing. Since then, Sangiovese, Pinot Gris, Montepulciano, Malbec, Cabernet Franc and Merlot have been added.

Since 2010, The Landing Vineyard and Winery has produced boutique vintages of Chardonnay, Syrah, Pinot Gris, Rosé and Port. All of these vintages have won several awards and received significant accolades from respected wine critics. In 2020, our winery opened, allowing us to craft our wines from seed to barrel to bottle at The Landing.

The Region
Northland is one of the rising stars of New Zealand wine-growing, with a warm and sometimes frisky coastal climate that The Landing’s winemaker Ben Byrne believes can produce wines to compete with the best in the world.“Many of the best Old World vintages come from variable climates and marginal sites where the vines have to work a little harder,”he says.

The Landing’s vineyard is sited in a protective cradle of hills, enjoying a sheltered aspect. Through the long, balmy days of summer, sea breezes off Rangihoua Bay keep the vines dry as their roots tunnel deep into the undulating clay and sandstone soils for groundwater, drawing up minerals that give our wines complexity.

Northland’s ideal wine-growing conditions were first noted over 200 years ago by the missionary Reverend Samuel Marsden He established the first permanent European settlement in New Zealand on the Purerua Peninsula and planted New Zealand’s first grapevines nearby at Kerikeri in 1819.

Since the founding of The Landing Wines, we have honoured the area’s pioneering spirit and respected the land’s beauty and abundance by nurturing and restoring it through sustainable viticulture.

The Wine History
The land’s suitability for viticulture was long-ago identified by the missionary Reverend Samuel Marsden. Marsden established the first permanent European settlement in New Zealand, alongside where our vineyard now sits, and planted what are thought to have been New Zealand’s first grapevines nearby in 1819.

Over time, the peninsula’s fertile soils and abundant marine life drew more settlers, and it became a thriving hub of culture and trade for the region.

The Wine Philosophy
Since the founding of The Landing Wines in 2007, we have honoured the area’s pioneering spirit with our innovative approach, and respected the land’s beauty and abundance by nurturing and restoring it through sustainable viticulture.

The Wine Varieties
In 2007, the first Syrah and Chardonnay vines were planted at The Landing, producing our first vintage in 2010. Since then, Sangiovese, Pinot Gris, Montepulciano, Malbec, Cabernet Franc and Merlot have been added.

Since 2010, The Landing Wines has produced boutique vintages of Chardonnay, Syrah, Pinot Gris, Rosé and Port, which have won awards and received significant accolades from respected wine critics.

Our outstanding 2019 harvest was the first to include fruit from our new red grape varieties, providing exciting opportunities for our winemaking team to craft new single varieties and blends.

A Weekend of Wine!
Over three days and two nights, discover the craft of wine making in our vineyard and winery and enjoy exceptional dining prepared by The Landing’s private chef, while staying in the luxurious comfort of our Residences.

The Bay of Islands region is one of New Zealand’s ‘food baskets’, with incredible seafood, fresh produce and grass-fed meats, as well as being a rising star of the wine industry. Set on a spectacular 1000-acre coastal estate, The Landing is an unforgettable retreat.

At our Weekend with the Winemakers, our experts will take you on a journey of discovery. From a tour of the terroir of our hillside vineyard to guided tastings of our range accompanied by exquisite local cuisine.

The Landing winemaker Ben Byrne and renowned consultant winemaker Warren Gibson will lead a tasting masterclass in our winery barrel room. In addition, they will take barrel-tastings and give you the chance to try your hand at blending for a wine to take home.

Each day, you’ll enjoy breakfasts, lunches and dinners created by our head chef. Produce is grown in The Landing’s own gardens and orchard and sourced from local fishermen and farmers. As a result you are given a true taste of the region – all accompanied by The Landing’s own wines.

In your free time, you can explore the scenic and historic highlights of The Landing. Take to the water for sight-seeing or fishing trips on our private boat. After that, meet New Zealand’s shy native icon – the kiwi – on a guided night walk. Paddleboards, kayaks, mountain bikes, tennis courts, gym and a steam room are also all available during your stay.

It’s a weekend of conviviality and gastronomic discovery and is set in one of the most beautiful retreats in the country. Don’t miss your chance to secure your place.

Women’s Wellness Weekend
The beauty and tranquility of The Landing in the Bay of Islands is the ideal escape for a three-day wellness journey. You will be led by yoga and mindfulness teacher Barbara Draper of Te Manawa Meditation and Mindfulness and also the team at the luxury natural beauty apothecary, Tonic Room.

You will be nurtured, nourished and taken care of by our talented team during your stay in our luxury accommodation. With everything you need to relax, unwind and reset at your fingertips, this weekend will truly be a weekend for you! Perfect for friends to enjoy time together and participate in all or as many sessions as you like.

Kiwi Night Walk
Lushly green and ringing with birdsong during the day, by night the New Zealand native forest is magically still and dark. Our Landing guide will take you on a torch-lit journey into the darkness to discover New Zealand’s shy iconic native bird, the kiwi.

This native bird species lives in abundance at The Landing. See burrows where they hide during the day and hear their calls to each other through the night air. Experience face-to-fuzzy-face interaction with them as they roam the forest searching for food in their favourite spots.

Marine Wildlife Cruise
The sparkling Bay of Islands harbour is a marine wonderland. Board The Landing’s boat Iti Rangi for a tour of the pristine coves and bays. Watch lounging seals and little blue penguins bobbing through the waves!

Closer to land, see rock colonies of seabirds, pods of dolphins and schools of fish in the clear shore waters. On a lucky day you may also get to see whales. Your Landing guide will talk you through sites of historic and geological interest. You will also wade past volcanic rock formations and archeological discoveries in the region.

Heritage Tour
Learn about the experiences of the first Pacific explorers, sailors, whalers, chiefs, missionaries, traders and settlers of New Zealand. These people founded one of New Zealand’s first townships their stories are integral to the history of the area.

Our guide will take you on a tour of archeological sites of interest at The Landing which takes you around the property. An important landmark is the Rangihoua Heritage Park and Marsden Cross memorial which sit above Rangihoua Bay.

The Ocean
The Landing has six private beaches ideal for swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking, snorkelling or relaxing on the golden sand as your children play in the safe, quiet waters of the bay. Our skippered private vessel Iti Rangi is available for you to cruise the coves of the peninsula to fish and encounter seals, dolphins, seabirds and other marine life.

Or if you like to chase big game, the luxury sport-fishing vessel Ata Rangi can be taken out for the day or overnight for some of the best marlin, tuna fishing in the world. The Bay of Islands also offers incredible scuba diving, and wreck diving, including the famous Rainbow Warrior and HMNZS Canterbury, parasailing, and hole-in-the-rock cruises.

The Landscape
The Landing sits within 1000 acres of native bush, wetland bird sanctuary and farmland, which you have full access to roam through on a network of tracks. Rise early for a hike or bike ride as the sun rises, rug up for a late-night kiwi spotting walk with one of our guides, or take a driving tour of sites of interest.

In the wider area, head out on a horse trek across beach or mountains with one of the local stables, visit glowworm caves in ancient rainforest or play golf at one of the world’s most spectacular courses, including the PGA tournament-quality Carrington course on the Karikari Peninsula and the internationally renowned Kauri Cliffs course.

Culture and Heritage

Rangihoua Bay, which neighbours The Landing, was the site of New Zealand’s first township of Māori and European settlers living and trading together. This shared history is honoured at the landmark Marsden Cross memorial and Rangihoua Heritage Park.

This landmark and heritage park adjoins The Landing and can be accessed via a spectacular walking path leading from the Residences. The Landing is home to a significant collection of artefacts and rare books, available to give you a deeper insight into Northland’s history and culture.

In the region, the charming towns of the area – Kerikeri, Russell, Paihia and Waitangi – lie within 15-35 minutes by car or boat. In the heritage town of Kerikeri, you’ll find local growers’ markets, while in Russell and Paihia, there are excellent restaurants and boutique stores.

The historic Waitangi Treaty Grounds and Museum are a site of national significance – the place where New Zealand’s founding document, the Treaty of Waitangi was signed – and are well worth a visit.

Website: www.thelandingnz.com

Rooms: 4

Price: from 5.468 EUR per night

Bay of Many Coves is a luxury five-star resort, set in the heart of Queen Charlotte Sound, Marlborough. Nestled between stunning native bush and our secluded bay, you will enjoy an unforgettable experience: Whether you are seeking world-class cuisine, breath-taking scenery, adventure, or simply a sense of renewal, you will find it here, whatever the season.

It’s surprisingly easy to find yourself a world away: Come summer or winter, our luxurious retreat is a sanctuary in every sense where our guests can relax, escape the everyday, and discover the exceptional.

Whether you arrive by boat or by air, you will soon find yourself in a secluded location, in the heart of the Marlborough Sounds, nestled between the bush and the sea. We invite you to immerse yourself in our pristine natural setting, enjoy our hospitality, and recharge your batteries.

The internationally-renowned Queen Charlotte walking track awaits you on our doorstep, along with other adventures. And, with our world-class chefs close at hand, yours will be an experience you won’t forget.

THE HISTORY
Nigel and Janine Gould have always loved the Marlborough Sounds. As newlyweds, they often holidayed in the area, and when the chance to purchase Soulmate came along, they began spending more time sailing and discovering the winding waterways that make up this unique region.

On one occasion, as they explored the Queen Charlotte Sound, Soulmate pulled into a small bay called Bay of Many Coves. Nigel and Janine discovered a resort, tucked away between the bush and the sea, totally off the beaten track. They picked up a mooring and stayed two nights. It was love at first sight: the location, the tranquillity, the light dancing on the water at dusk… The year was 2009.

Since then, the resort has grown into an internationally renowned luxury lodge, and has welcomed thousands of guests from New Zealand and abroad. Nigel, Janine and the lodge staff are passionate about sharing the unique beauty and sanctuary of the bay with guests who come here for connection, relaxation, and discovery.

Getting away from it all, discovering the delightful flavours of Marlborough, and time spent with loved ones is what draws guests to this sanctuary. Not to mention our proximity to the world-famous Queen Charlotte Track and our varied marine fauna: A delight for nature lovers everywhere. Our story is evolving, and our hope is that we can preserve this very special place for generations to come through our sustainability and guardianship efforts.

KERERU SUITE
The relaxed intimacy of the Kereru Suite will make you feel like you are a million miles away. A private entrance leads to your cozy, beautifully appointed suite. The two luxurious bedrooms have their own superbly appointed shower en-suite.

The rooms connect to a contemporary lounge, with its own fireplace, where you can enjoy getting away from it all be it in summer, winter, or any season. A wide private balcony with sweeping views across the Queen Charlotte Sound will take your breath away.

Enjoy a romantic glass of ‘bubbles’ on your own secluded spa deck, overlooking the bay, under the shelter of a Kowhai grove and regenerating native bush. And if you wait till dark, you will discover a night sky that is unique to our truly peaceful, pristine location.

THREE BEDROOM APARTMENT
Connect together the generations of your family in our stylishly comfortable three bedroom apartment. Featuring architect-designed living areas, three luxurious bedrooms, and two beautifully-appointed bathrooms, this versatile apartment allows for up to six people to enjoy the comfort and warmth of the natural wood interior, and the uninterrupted views of the Marlborough Sounds from your private balcony.

TWO BEDROOM APARTMENT
Opening the curtains in the mornings as the sun comes up is nothing short of breathtaking. Experience the beauty of the Marlborough Sounds with another couple in the privacy of our award-winning architect-designed apartments.

The warm wooden interior offers a refreshingly relaxed atmosphere: Spacious and stylish, the apartment has been designed to offer a generous combination of both social and private contemporary living.

With windows opening wide onto uninterrupted views across the bay, two king size bedrooms are dressed with the finest linens and smoothest down pillows. Each room has a beautifully-appointed bathroom, and opens up to a stylish and cozy shared lliving room with private balcony.

ONE BEDROOM APARTMENT
A Honeymoon hideaway, romantic escape, or simply ‘time out’ for yourself: Welcome to the beauty of the Marlborough Sounds. Every apartment has been thoughtfully designed to create a private sanctuary where you can relax and enjoy luxurious home comforts.

Beautiful linens, lofty down pillows and luxurious king size beds will ensure you leave rejuvenated. Warm wooden interiors mirror our stuning native setting and your private balcony offers sweeping views of our secluded bay. The beautifully-appointed bathroom reflects our commitment to New Zealand-sourced botanicals.

DINING
Our Chefs craft their menus from locally-sourced and sustainable produce, gathering the finest ingredients from the sea and the land. Our exclusive fine dining restaurant, private guest lounge and welcoming waterfront café, each capture the freshness and spirit of the Marlborough Sounds. Our privileged location brings many local delights, such as our world-renouned wines and ‘Kai Moana’ (seafood), turning each meal into a memory.

THE FOREDECK RESTUARANT
This is a fine dining experience in a uniquely romantic setting with sweeping views across the bay. Enjoy an evening filled with candle-light, conversation and truly beautiful flavours, where our seasonal menus and expertly wine-matched signature degustations willl create unforgettable culinary memories.

Whilst we warmly welcome families at the Bay of Many Coves, we happily offer a range of alternative options for entertaining children, so that The Foredeck remains solely reserved for an intimate fine dining experience from six o’ clock in the evening.

A warm welcome is also extended to guests not staying at the Bay of Many Coves. As a mark of respect for the loving care and attention our chefs put into creating a gastronomic experience for you, we request you dress as you would for any fine dining restaurant. Depending on guest numbers we may need to seat you in our private dining area downstairs.

WINE CELLAR
Our cellar showcases some of the finest New Zealand wines, thanks to the close relationship our Sommelier enjoys with the region’s finest winemakers, as well as a select offering of international labels. Our staff will skilfully match our wines to every dish.

THE KUMATAGE GUEST LOUNGE
An exclusive haven for our guests, The Kumatage lounge also enjoys sweeping views of the bay. Our chefs are on-hand for a freshly-cooked breakfast, delicious brunch or long lunch that drifts effortlessly into the afternoon.

Linger over the morning newspaper, enjoy a barista coffee and gaze upon a landscape that is teeming with wildlife, no matter the season. We’re always on-hand to share our local knowledge and recommendations for the perfect way to spend your day.

THE QUARTERDECK
In-house guests can enjoy the best of the Marlborough Sounds in a relaxed setting – including capturing the last of the afternoon sun – while enjoying a beautiful glass of crisp Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc, and something delicious from our ever-evolving seasonal menu. We trust that this new space, by the water’s edge, will provide a quiet spot to lose yourself in the beauty and seclusion of our unique location.

WEDDINGS
We love weddings and will do everything we can to ensure a perfect day. The setting is ideally suited to a romantic wedding, with spectacular sea views, wonderful indoor/outdoor facilities and delicious cuisine. We specialise in small and intimate weddings, with a maximum capacity of 34 guests. Minimum stay is 2 nights and a full buy-out the resort for that period is required.

HONEYMOON
After all the excitement of your wedding, the Bay of Many Coves Resort is the perfect haven. The splendour of the Marlborough Sounds at your doorstep, bush clad hills reaching down to the sea and not a road in sight. Arrive at the resort for bubbly and a gourmet platter on your private balcony and take in the stunning views.

Relax in your luxury apartment, and then enjoy a soak in the hot tub under the stars. Awake to the sound of tuis and bellbirds enjoy a café breakfast at the water’s edge. Spend the days chilling out together before indulging in a romantic dinner prepared by our award-winning team of chefs. Make your honeymoon something to remember forever, at the peace and tranquillity of the Bay of Many Coves.

CORPORATE RETREATS
A great place to take the team, where business mixes beautifully with pleasure. When there’s business to be done without the everyday interruptions, in an environment that enhances teamwork and camaraderie, The Bay of Many Coves Resort is your perfect partner. We can provide the perfect mix of business-friendly environment, social relaxation and adventure that will ensure the success of your meeting.

THE EXPERIENCE
Welcome to the Bay of Many Coves resort, the place to treat yourself to a unique Marlborough Sounds experience, all year round. Recently dubbed “the jewel of the Marlborough Sounds”, we are so close to home, yet you will feel a million miles away.

Indulge your passions, challenge your senses, and try things you’ve always dreamt of doing. Whether you stay with us in summer, winter, or any season in between, you can choose to do as much, or as little as you like… all in your own time and away from the crowds.

Our friendly staff and experienced guides are here to help make your stay memorable. And when each day is over, come home to Bay of Many Coves and experience true Marlborough sounds hospitality. Catering for small teams or larger groups of up to 20, the Resort’s many facilities, three café/restaurants, and luxury accommodation can provide the perfect environment.

SPA & WELLNESS
The Miritu Day Spa at Bay Of Many Coves offers treatments for men and women, inspired by indigenous and European cultures, using locally sourced products and native botanical extracts.

Our talented in-house therapists bring a host of experience in restorative, sports and deep tissue massage techniques. Other treatments include manicures, pedicures and facials. We are open throughout the year to our guests, so why not indulge yourself during your stay?

POOLS & s SWIMMING 
If you love being in or near the water, you’ve come to the right place. A refreshing dip in the sea, a lounge around the pool, or a steaming hot tub: There’s nothing as refreshing after a day’s exploring, or a soak in the hot tub, under the stars, before bed.

BUSH WALKING
Lush native forests and regenerating bush are perfect for recharging the spirit. Take one of several tracks leading out from the Resort that lead you through 52 hectares of private bush, alive with native birds.

Venture from the Bay of Many Coves Resort to the Queen Charlotte Track, or let us arrange a boat pick up from any of the entry and exit points along this magnificent walkway. Ask us about the Whittakers ‘Peanut Slab’ challenge and join the alumni from around the world.

MARINE WILDLIFE
One of the highlights of a visit to the Marlborough Sounds is an up-front encounter with our marine wildlife. The clear cool waters, sheltered coves and native bush backdrops provide a spectacular setting for watching these magnificent creatures.

It is also possible, providing conditions allow, to go swimming with the dolphins. Interacting with them in their underwater habitat is the adventure experience of a lifetime. We can arrange special excursions with our friends from ‘E-Ko Tours’, who have considerable experience in navigating the Sounds for the best dolphin watching opportunities.

Species You May Encounter: Bottlenose dolphins are frequent visitors all year round, sometimes in groups of up to 150! They are very social animals and are guaranteed to put on a good show.

Dusky dolphins are only found in the southern hemisphere and feed regularly in the Marlborough Sounds during autumn, winter, and spring. Known for performing perfectly executed back flips!

Common dolphins are quite distinctive with a yellow coloured side-patch and can often be seen riding a bow wave or slip-streaming in the wake of boats. Groups in open water sometimes number up to 500 or more.

Hector’s dolphin is the world’s smallest and rarest oceanic dolphin and is only found in New Zealand waters. It can be seen mainly throughout the summer and is a treat for our international guests to see.

Orca or killer whales are actually the largest of the dolphin species and their visits are a bit unpredictable. Although there are only approximately 200 orca resident in New Zealand waters, they are often sighted in the Sounds, particularly during December and January. New Zealand fur seals are very common in the area with a large colony in Queen Charlotte Sound. Playful and very appealing, they are always a delight to have around.

Humpback whales, southern right whales, and pygmy blue whales are also seen in the open waters of New Zealand and sometimes in Cook Strait. A glimpse of these largest of ocean going mammals is indeed a sight to be remembered.

BIRD WATCHING
An eco-marine haven where unique birdlife abounds. The Resort is an ornithologist’s dream: Dusk will bring the swooping Kereru, Tui and curious Weka. Dawn will begin with a chorus of native birds including the beautiful bellbird.

Across the Bay, you will find three Cormorant breeding colonies. Easily accessible by kayak or dinghy these birds provide year round entertainment – none more so when the young birds are learning to fly, swim and fish.

A trip to nearby Motuara Island will reward you with a glorious cross section of New Zealand birdlife, while a little further on, you will arrive at the only King Cormorant breeding colony in the world.

KAYAKING & SUP
Explore the sheltered bays and beautiful Sounds coastline in your own time. We have a range of sea kayaks and stand-up paddle boards (S.U.P.s) for guests to enjoy during their stay. Guided options can include a day paddle to visit the Salmon Farm in neighbouring Ruakaka Bay with lunch at Ratimera Beach. Itineraries can be tailored to suit fitness and the experience levels of guests. Dinghies are also available for use by guests at the resort.

STAR GAZING & GLOW WORMS
A spectacular light show from above and from within. At night, after your evening meal, and if you feel like a romantic stroll or a relaxing soak in our hot tub, look up: You will see an uninterrupted display of stars, under our unpolluted sky, the likes of which is so rare.

In the late afternoon, just a short walk from the Resort, you will experience the visual magic provided by our native ‘glow worms’: these special creatures earned their Maōri name, ‘titiwai’, meaning ‘projected over water’, which describes their general habitat along streams.

Look for them in the bush, under tree trunks or within the foliage and you will be amazed by this truly unique New Zealand ecosystem.

BEACHES
Have you ever dreamed of idling away the time on your own personal beach? The Resort is built around the beach with easy access to the water and a number of places to spend a pleasant few hours stretched out under the sun. If you ever get tired of that, just put on your walking shoes and before you’ve travelled far, you’ll come across stunning secluded beaches just waiting to be discovered.

QUEEN CHARLOTTE TRACK
This world-renowned coastal track winds through 72km of towering native forest and regenerating bush, over ridges and into beautiful coves. Venture from the Bay of Many Coves Resort for a round-trip walk or allow us to arrange a boat pick up service from any of the several entry and exit points for longer excursions. Both freedom and guided walking options are available from two hours to five days.

SWIMMING WITH DOLPHINS
If you are looking for a life changing experience, this is a good place to start. Our staff will be delighted to help you organise this incredible ‘Bucket-List’ adventure, in association with our friends at ‘E-Ko Tours’:

A half-day ‘Swim with dolphins’ Experience will leave from Picton. You will spend 4 – 5 hours in Cook’s Strait and Cloudy Bay, where you will view or swim with large pods of dolphins. Minimum age for this activity is 3 years old to view, 8 years old to swim.

ECO CRUISING
Learn about the environment, wildlife and our history with a visit to the ‘Bay of Mystery’, the spiritual Heartland of Totaranui. Hear untold stories that you won’t find in English history books, visit the ‘Oruawairua’ island bird sanctuary,visit Betty Rowe’s ‘Arapawa Island’ wildlife sanctuary or the old Maōri ‘Turangawaewae’ homestead.

FISHING CHARTERS
Fresh fish is what the Marlborough Sounds is famous for, so why not catch your own? Whether fishing is a passion or on your ‘Bucket List’, our friendly staff can arrange a Fishing charter for you within the inner-Sounds (catch and release blue cod) or an extreme outer-Sounds fishing expedition.

WINE TOURS
Enjoy a personalised tour of Marlborough’s leading vineyards and wineries, and taste the three ‘icons’ of our Region: Our world-famous Sauvignon Blanc, Greenlip mussels, and the Marlborough Sounds themselves. Whether you have a particular cellar-door in mind, or you would like some guidance, our staff will assist you with their local wine knowledge.

MOTUARA ISLAND
Guarding the entrance to Queen Charlotte Sound, Motuara Island is covered with regenerating forest and has been pest-free since 1991. It is now a bird sanctuary that provides a safe haven for many rare species, including the South Island Saddleback and Bush Robin.

Spend the day cruising through the Queen Charlotte Sound: An eco-marine haven where seals, dolphins, penguins, gannets and shearwaters abound. The surrounding Sound also has a resident pod of Hector’s Dolphins, thought to be the rarest marine dolphin in the world.

The Department of Conservation (DOC) ‘Marine Mammal Watch permit’ allows us to interact with the local wildlife along the 30 minute journey to the Island. Flora and Fauna identification sheets and maps can be provided during your visit, with an onboard commentary by the skipper highlighting points of interest.

MOTOR YACHT CRUISING
Explore some of the world’s best cruising, right here in the Marlborough Sounds, onboard ‘Katabatic’. 42-year-old local owner, Skipper and Chef, Grant Orchard, specialises in tailor-made cruising, sightseeing, fishing and overnight charters. Enjoy the beauty of the Marlborough Sounds with a full or half-day excursion, for up to 8 guests, all fishing gear supplied, and beautiful local cuisine, prepared by Grant himself.

SAILING
The Marlborough Sounds provide perfect sailing conditions in one of the world’s most picturesque environments. Cruise the Sounds with some of the most experienced operators in the Marlborough region. Sail to historic sights such as Tory Channel, Ship’s Cove or Motuara Island, where you can go ashore to explore.

Rooms: 11

Price: from 844 EUR per night

Source: www.bayofmanycoves.co.nz

Set in pastoral surroundings against the fluted cone of an ancient volcano, Otahuna Lodge is a beguiling Victorian mansion that offers its guests a unique sense of wonder and discovery. New Zealand’s largest private historic residence has been revitalised with luxury accommodation, glorious gardens and sophisticated cuisine.

In its patrician sense of calm, the grace and charm of its grounds and its refined yet personable service, Otahuna combines the romance of the past with the cosmopolitan pleasures of the present – the very best of both worlds. This is Otahuna Lodge. This is New Zealand at its finest.

Otahuna holds many treasures. Beyond the classic entrance hall, hidden amenities and fine dining are waiting to be discovered and enjoyed. Each guest of the luxury Lodge will feel delightfully cosseted by the service and charmed by the ambient sense of history, even as they are spoilt for choice by the range of activities available.

History
Otahuna was built in 1895 for Sir Heaton Rhodes, a high-profile pioneer of Canterbury, and his wife Jessie. Sir Heaton is remembered as a Victorian country gentleman and benefactor known for his enthusiasm for life and kindness towards others.

He was a long-term parliamentarian, a military officer, stockbreeder and keen horticulturist whose contributions are integral to the history of Canterbury. Otahuna would remain his home for more than 60 years until he passed away at the age of 95.

The name “Otahuna” is Maori and popularly translates as “little hill among the hills.” The homestead sits atop a small hill, between the rocky outcrops of the Banks Peninsula, providing commanding views of the gardens and across the plains to the Southern Alps.

Otahuna is Sir Heaton Rhodes’ greatest legacy, an enduring testament to his love for the finer things in life. The homestead is considered one of the best examples of unspoiled Queen Anne architecture in Australasia.

Praised for its irregular shape, romantic rooflines, extensive use of New Zealand timber, and elaborate architectural detail, Otahuna is now protected by a Category One listing from the New Zealand Historic Places Trust.

Influenced by the style and scale of noble English country estates, Otahuna Lodge entertains its guests in the refined tradition of Sir Heaton Rhodes.

Luxury Accommodation
Each of Otahuna’s seven suites is an enclave of refined comfort. Here, the classical ambience created by ornate fireplaces, carved inglenooks and flowers freshly picked from the Estate has been enhanced with luxurious fabrics and lavish bathrooms.

Sir Heaton Rhodes’ former bedroom is the nucleus of a grand, four-room Master Suite incorporating an octagonal study. The other Master Suite has a private, fourteen-metre verandah with views across the Canterbury Plains. A further five Suites have their own individual charms, each located within a unique area of the original homestead.

All of the Master Suites and Suites offer super-king beds, fine custom-made linens, deep soaking bathtubs with separate showers, original artworks and bath toiletries created exclusively for Otahuna Lodge.

Rhodes Suite
Originally the master bedroom, the Rhodes Suite is actually a series of four rooms which embodies the gracious character of Sir Heaton and Jessie Rhodes. The palatial bedroom boasts a magnificent Victorian fireplace with inglenook seating and stained glass windows.

A separate octagonal sitting room situated in the turret is the perfect spot to read a book, work a jigsaw puzzle, enjoy a quiet candlelit dinner or simply gaze out to the gardens.

The ensuite bathroom is luxuriously appointed with a double shower and separate spa tub, ideal for soothing tired muscles at the close of an active day. Outside, the private balcony affords spectacular views across the Canterbury plains to the distant Southern Alps.

Verandah Suite
Epitomising the phrase “room with a view,” the Verandah Suite is the perfect base from which to start exploring Canterbury. Four doors open onto an enormous arched verandah, reserved exclusively for the suite.

Here, guests may quietly contemplate the birdsong from the gardens, or toast with a glass of champagne as the sun sets across the Canterbury Plains behind the Southern Alps. Indoors, guests can lose themselves in the crackle of a fire – either from a deep armchair in the bedroom or from the freestanding bathtub in the spacious ensuite bathroom.

Botanical Suite
The Botanical Suite is situated in the original Morning Room of the house, where tea was served to Jessie Rhodes and other fine Canterbury ladies every day at 11 o’clock sharp. A floor-to-ceiling mantle featuring gingerbread woodwork and a wood-burning fireplace anchors one corner of the room.

In another, an enormous bay window faces east to the gardens and receives bright sunlight through painted glass in the mornings. Located on the ground floor, the Botanical Suite offers its guests access to the gardens through a private exterior door ensuring that a leisurely stroll or a brisk walk is never more than a few steps away.

Butler Suite
The Butler Suite comprises a series of rooms looking over the brick herb garden and the terracotta roof of the sunken game house – now a wine cellar – to the woodland beyond.

The bedroom, separate full sitting room, and two bathrooms feature classic depictions of the evocative Canterbury landscape as well as Otahuna’s historic past. The decorative scheme reminiscent of the Arts and Crafts period features dark wood, original fireplace tiles and classic furniture. The butler never had it so good!

Polo Suite
So named for the tradition of the game at Otahuna, the Polo Suite occupies a sunny position at the front of the house overlooking a courtyard on one side and the Great Lawn on the other. Heaton played regularly on the lawn, which had to be mown by horses wearing special leather shoes.

The classic leathers, houndstooth fabrics and oak furniture of the suite provide the perfect inspiration to plan one’s own horseback adventures from the comfort of a deep, freestanding bathtub. Or to relax by one of the suite’s two fireplaces with a good book from the Otahuna Library.

Dining
The cuisine celebrates the best of seasonal New Zealand produce, with an emphasis on fresh Otahuna estate-grown offerings. Dinner is a four-course chef’s degustation menu which changes daily, making use of the fresh produce sourced from the property’s own potager garden and orchard.

Honest, uncluttered flavours, the finest local ingredients and elegantly restrained presentation are the hallmarks of the Otahuna table. Should this pique one’s taste buds, many culinary experiences may be pursued on the property including cooking classes and seasonal mushroom foraging. Private tours of local, artisanal food providers are arranged upon request.

At dinner, guests dine communally in the opulent formal dining room – ornate original wallpaper, a roaring fire and sparkling candlesticks exemplify the gracious living of the Victorian era. Alternatively, they may retreat to a private table for two in the sunken wine cellar, the intimate library, the drawing room turret, or a location of their choosing.

Wine Cellar
The old game house – where game and fowl were hung to dry – now houses Otahuna Lodge’s wine cellar. Set into a hillside, the cellar maintains ideal temperature and humidity for the careful maturation of New Zealand wines.

Otahuna Lodge offers a different flight of complementary wine pairings with each dinner, emphasising Canterbury and New Zealand wines. Should guests wish to celebrate with a particular vintage, a list is always available.

Cooking Class
Culinary excellence is a cornerstone of the Otahuna experience. A hands-on cooking lesson with Executive Chef Jimmy McIntyre provides an enjoyable overview of the philosophies behind the Lodge’s celebrated food and wine programme as profiled in Bon Appetit, Conde Nast Traveller, and The Financial Times.

Classes are typically reserved only for resident guests of the Lodge. They provide an introduction to planning menus and offer a special chance to learn first-hand cooking techniques in our kitchens before tasting the delicious results for yourselves. Classes are available in one-hour or three-hour formats.

Vineyards
One hour north of Otahuna Lodge lies the Waipara wine district, New Zealand’s hottest wine region and home to some excellent boutique vineyards. Waipara translates from the Maori language as “muddy water” due to the braided rivers that carry glacial silt from the mountains to the sea.

Waipara vineyards are perhaps best known for excellent Pinot Noirs—often sought after for their rich notes of licorice caused by the high amount of limestone in the soil. Zingy Rieslings are also popular in Waipara, with many winning national awards.

Cellar doors are open for tasting at Greystone Wines/Muddy Water, Pegasus Bay, The Boneline Wines, Torlesse Wines and a range of others including Black Estate which also boasts one of New Zealand’s finest winery restaurants.

Nearer to the Lodge a visit to Tussock Hill combined with a hike in Christchurch’s stunning Port Hills makes for a delightful–and delicious–excursion.

Weddings
Otahuna offers many beautiful sites for wedding ceremonies throughout its 30 acres of original gardens, including the Great Lawn beside the property’s lake or under the century-old oaks of the formal Dutch Garden.

Alternatively, the rich detail, open fires and elaborate stained glass of the Lodge’s Entry Hall and Drawing Room provide an elegant ambience for indoor ceremonies.

The Ballroom is ideally situated to host reception dinners, providing historic charm with its original wood panelling, 7-metre vaulted ceiling, large bay window overlooking the gardens and French doors opening directly onto the Lodge’s verandah.

The Ballroom can accommodate a maximum of 64 guests for a seated dinner and can also accommodate a band for dancing after dinner. Our experienced team will personalise your requirements and tailor-make an experience alongside the best local suppliers to create an unforgettable wedding day.

Wedding couples consult personally with Executive Chef Jimmy McIntyre to design their own wedding menu, with cuisine drawing upon the seasonal bounty of Otahuna’s vast potager gardens.

Corporate Events
Otahuna offers an ideal setting for small conferences, product launches and board meetings. Larger groups of 64 people are accommodated in the wood-panelled Ballroom while smaller groups may prefer the Lodge’s Dining Room or an array of indoor and outdoor breakout locations.

Additionally, with its 30 acres providing complete privacy Otahuna regularly welcomes groups of up to 16 people for overnight retreats. The Lodge’s distinctive facilities and renowned kitchens ensure the most memorable of occasions.

Massage & Fitness
After a busy day exploring Canterbury, guests might indulge in a relaxing massage. Therapists provide a range of treatments, styles and pressures to accommodate a wide variety of preferences. Guests can enjoy a 60- or 90-minute massage in the Woodland Massage Studio.

The heated Otahuna swimming pool is open from November through March. Meanwhile the outdoor spa pool is available for use throughout the year. Hybrid bicycles are also available to explore local country roads.

Gardens
The spectacular 125-year old grounds of Otahuna were laid out and cultivated under the direction of A. E. Lowe who trained at Kew Gardens, London. Wide vistas over lawn and lake contrast beautifully with intimate walks which wind through both outdoor garden rooms and heavily wooded areas.

Daffodil Field
During the first half of the 20th century, Otahuna became nationally famous for its fields of daffodils – the largest in New Zealand at the time. Surplus bulbs were donated to the city of Christchurch forming the nucleus of the daffodil gardens in Hagley Park. Today, millions of bulbs still bloom resplendent every September, welcoming guests to the property.

Heaton Rhodes was a passionate horticulturist, serving as president of the Canterbury Horticultural Society for more than 50 years. His gardeners bred their own varieties of prize-winning daffodils, and Heaton and Jessie would often help them pollinate the flowers by hand.

Dutch Garden
At the end of a path passing between 6 majestic Chusan palms lies the entrance to the Dutch Garden. The term ‘Dutch Garden’ began to appear in England around the turn of the twentieth century to describe a geometric parterre which was filled with densely planted, colourful flowers often enclosed by clipped Buxus hedges or low walls.

The Dutch garden was renovated in 2007 with the removal of more than 40 trees and restoration of 6 Buxus-lined gravel lanes which radiate from a central circle.

Sunlight filters through the canopy of exotic trees planted many years ago which include original oaks, a Feijoa and a weeping Cherry, which in spring drapes its white blossom over a carpet of vibrant blue Ajuga. Elsewhere, a Madron tree from North America with feathery red bark stands sentinel over drifts of flowering shrubs.

The many fragrances of the Dutch Garden are sure to revive the senses: lavender, pine, daphne, viburnum, lemonwood, mock orange blossom and boxwood among others. All the while the bellbird and endangered wood pigeon provide a soundtrack for exploration.

Games Lawn
For those who find relaxation in competitive pursuits, croquet, petanque and kubb are available on our sun-dappled games lawn where a cocktail or refreshing beverage is never far away.

Lawn & Lake
Quite British in design, Otahuna’s great lawn has served as the site of glorious garden parties, polo matches and even a royal visit. At the top of the lawn, hidden paths wind in and out of camellia beds and open out to a great expanse gently sloping down to the ornamental lake.

Majestic oaks, cedars, wattles and poplars fringe the grass. The lake itself is crossed by three wooden bridges linking the daffodil field on one side to the forest on the other. In the late afternoon, it is not uncommon to find a guest here, with a glass of New Zealand wine in one hand and a croquet mallet in the other, ready to engage in some friendly competition.

Potager Garden
The potager-style vegetable garden holds a prime position in a sunny stone-walled enclosure which was originally the domain of the estate’s stallions.

Here, a huge range of seasonal vegetables, fruits, herbs, nuts and mushrooms – including exotic and rare heritage varietals – is grown organically for the table. Guests can even accompany the chef to select vegetables for their own evening meal.

Apples, pears, quince, and other fruit abound in Otahuna’s orchard which includes many trees from the Edwardian era. Recently restored and redeveloped are two of the estate’s original outbuildings, the Melon Shed and the Apple Store.

The Melon Shed is a Victorian glasshouse devoted to the growth of tropical fruits such as tahitian and finger limes and cucumbers that grow up to a metre in length. On the other side of the orchard, guests are invited to explore the Apple Store, a root cellar which today provides the perfect climate to support a diverse array of mushrooms.

Woodlands
Pine bark trails and flagstone paths wend their way through rambling woodlands which shelter fantails, bellbirds, wood pigeons and other birds throughout the seasons. These woods formed the basis of Otahuna’s rhododendron gardens, and many old specimens now exhibit their showy blooms at canopy height.

Among the trees, one might stumble upon historic remnants such as moss covered steps leading to the original frog pond, or a hidden settee where Heaton would sit in the afternoon and watch the musterers herd sheep on the hill.

Swimming Pool
If the warm breezes of a Canterbury summer occasionally feel enervating, a refreshing dip in the swimming pool is the right tonic for a weary constitution. After dark, from a position in the outdoor jacuzzi, the constellations of the Southern Hemisphere seem just beyond arms’ reach.

Experiences
Welcome to Canterbury! New Zealand’s largest and most diverse province boasts an amazing array of experiences to incite your own personal sense of exploration.

Whether you wish to sail in an extinct volcanic harbour, take in the panoramas from one of the world’s greatest train journeys or charter a helicopter from Otahuna’s Great Lawn into the jaw-dropping scenery of the Southern Alps, there are numerous options to help you become immersed in the sights, sounds and flavours of the amazing place we call home.

Akaroa
Originally settled by French immigrants, Akaroa is a picturesque seaside town that has retained many of its 19th century public buildings and cottages. The one-hour drive from Otahuna’s gates takes guests over the crater rim of an extinct volcano, with stunning views of the harbour and the patchwork of farms and forests below.

For the active guest, Akaroa offers the opportunity to swim with the world’s rarest and smallest dolphins, the Hector’s Dolphins. Other excursions might include forest and hillside walks, a two-hour harbour cruise or an excursion to sea caves via kayak.

Within the village guests can enjoy charming shops and restaurants as well as the “Giant’s Garden” – a horticultural and artistic statement bedecked in mosaic tiles and sculpture.

Amongst the eastern bays of the peninsula, guests can discover Fisherman’s Bay Garden – a unique, painter’s garden which explores colour and texture through combinations of native plants, perennials and grasses.

Arthur’s Pass
Embark on one of the world’s greatest train journeys, the TranzAlpine, which traverses the South Island’s majestic landscapes. Your guide will collect you from Otahuna at 8:00 AM and drive you to nearby Rolleston Station.

You will then experience the most scenic part of the rail journey as the train climbs into the heart of the Southern Alps, winding its way along the bright blue Waimakariri River and through dramatic alpine valleys before arriving at Arthur’s Pass National Park.

Here, your guide will meet you for a hike in moss-laden forests teeming with glacial streams and waterfalls, followed by a café lunch or picnic. You might even meet a kea, the world’s only alpine parrot.

On your return via road to Otahuna, you may wish to stop at the monolithic limestone outcroppings of Castle Hill, one of the primary film locations from “The Chronicles of Narnia.”

Fly-Fishing
Canterbury’s rivers provide excellent chances for both the novice and expert fly-fisherman to test their skills. Guests benefit from the knowledge of a local guide who will choose a location to ensure the best chances of making a successful catch.

Brown and rainbow trout can be caught in both the high country as well as lowland streams from October through April. It is also possible during these months to catch Chinook salmon.

Guides provide licenses, tackle equipment, waders, instruction and transport in a 4-wheel drive vehicle. Access to remote mountain streams via helicopter provides an alternative option.

Golf
Excellent golfing is available throughout the region from the nearby nine-hole country course at Tai Tapu to the internationally acclaimed resort courses at Terrace Downs and Clearwater.

Christchurch Golf Club
Canterbury’s historic golfing destination, the Christchurch Golf Club, has a proud history that dates back to 1873 making it the fifth oldest club outside the United Kingdom. The club has held numerous New Zealand Open and Amateur, Men’s and Women’s Championships.

The course is renowned world-wide as a challenging championship course of the highest quality which offers a fair test of golf for both club and professional golfers. Travel Time from Otahuna Lodge: 35 Minutes

Clearwater Golf Course
This par 72 course has hosted the New Zealand PGA Championship and multiple international tournaments. Designed by John Darby in consultation with New Zealand golfing legend, Sir Bob Charles, the course combines elements of links golf inspired by the great Scottish courses with parkland golf more reminiscent of Florida.

Playable year-round, the course meanders around a succession of spring-fed lakes and trout-filled streams. Travel Time from Otahuna Lodge: 35 Minutes

Terrace Downs
Terrace Downs is rated as one of the top courses in New Zealand. Based at the foothills of the Southern Alps, there are very few scenic alpine courses like it. The course offers a unique mixture of parklands and links style with views of the Rakaia Gorge and nearby mountain ranges.

At par 72, the course is challenging. However, a choice of four tees on each hole ensures the course caters for a range of golfing abilities. Travel Time from Otahuna Lodge: 75 Minutes

Tai Tapu Golf Club
Less than 2 kilometres from the front gates of Otahuna lies the friendly Tai Tapu Club course. The course is only 9 holes but offers differing tee positions for guests wishing to play 18 holes (par 70). Travel Time from Otahuna Lodge: 5 Minutes

Heli-Touring
A scenic flight by helicopter is the ultimate way to see the natural beauty of New Zealand. The convenience of these tours is unsurpassed as helicopters depart and land directly from the Lodge’s Great Lawn. Otahuna Lodge has developed the following exclusive helicopter itineraries for guests:

Best of Canterbury
An amazing half-day introduction to many of the highlights of a stay in Canterbury. Depart from Otahuna and fly over dramatic Lyttelton Harbour and up the coast of the Pacific Ocean before landing in the Waipara wine region at Pegasus Bay or Black Estate wineries.

Here, a wine tasting will be offered before a delightful lunch of the very best New Zealand fare. In the afternoon you will fly into the breath-taking scenery of the snow-capped Southern Alps for a mountaintop landing with staggering views west toward the South Island’s Main Divide and east across the Canterbury Plains to the Banks Peninsula.

Kaikoura Whale Watch
Departing Otahuna, the helicopter tracks directly over Christchurch and up the coast of the South Island to the seaside town of Kaikoura. Transfer is then offered to the Kaikoura Whale Watch helicopter for a 40-minute whale watch.

Guests will enjoy an unsurpassed opportunity to view mighty sperm whales, Dusky dolphins and New Zealand fur seals from the air. The return flight provides the ability to stop for lunch at Pegasus Bay Winery or Black Estate.

Mt Cook Spectacular
This “only in New Zealand” helicopter adventure offers an incredible opportunity to visit the nation’s tallest peak: Aoraki Mt Cook at 3,754m (12,316ft), and to see the South Island’s diverse landscapes and to visit an iconic highcountry farm.

From Otahuna, guests fly across the chequerboard Canterbury Plains and into rolling hills followed by the alpine tussocks of the remote Mackenzie Country. As you approach Mt Cook National Park you will be greeted with exceptional views of glacial lakes before seeing the mountain itself.

In the park you have the option to enjoy a gourmet picnic hamper or lunch at The Hermitage Hotel with a guided walk around this treasured wilderness area. In the afternoon plan to fly along the Main Divide, the spine of New Zealand’s spectacular Southern Alps, before landing at a New Zealand sheep station.

There, you will meet the farm’s owners and have an overview of life in Canterbury’s back country before returning to Otahuna’s grounds. This is truly a Canterbury adventure without equal.

Heli – Skiing
Canterbury’s Southern Alps offer arguably the best variety of back country, helicopter-accessed terrain available in New Zealand. Within 25 minutes from the Lodge you can be skiing or snowboarding on over 1,000 square kilometres of mountains and hundreds of named runs beyond the headwaters of the Rakaia and Rangitata Rivers.

The terrain is remote and spectacular, with many glaciated runs exceeding 1,000 vertical metres from which you can even gaze at views of both the Pacific Ocean in the East and the Tasman Sea in the West. Single and multi-day heli-skiing adventures can be arranged based upon guests’ ability and specific interests.

Hiking & Biking
Canterbury’s diverse landscape offers an array of trails for walking and biking. The Lodge offers the complimentary use of 4 bicycles for exploring the immediate area with many guests enjoying the easy 6-kilometre loop in the Otahuna Valley. The quiet country roads are perfect for cycling and visits can be made to a local Tai Tapu café or the Longueville Art Gallery.

More adventurous guests might join a cycling guide along the summit road taking in spectacular views over Christchurch city and the nearby coastline. Or, they may wish to visit the new Christchurch Adventure Park, the largest downhill mountain bike park in the Southern hemisphere.

The local area offers a great selection of walking opportunities for every level of fitness. Some of our favourites include:

Bridle Path
This steep track with a 300m climb re-traces the steps of Christchurch’s first European settlers. It starts from volcanic Lyttelton Harbour before summiting the Port Hills and descending into the Heathcote Valley at the base of the Christchurch Gondola. 1.5 hours one way or 3 hours return.

Godley Head
Leaving from the surfing beach at Taylor’s Mistake, this coastal walkway offers spectacular views of the city, New Brighton Beach, estuaries and the Southern Alps. This track climbs to Godley Head with its historic World War II military buildings overlooking the entrance to Lyttelton Harbour. 3 hours return.

Hinewai Reserve
Hinewai Reserve boasts sweeping views and some of the best walking opportunities on the Banks Peninsula, including almost 12 kilometres of well-marked tracks. The 1000 hectare reserve offers wonderful old-growth bush as well as vast swathes of regenerating native bush under the stewardship of New Zealand’s leading botanist. 1 hour to half-day walks.

Orton Bradley
Orton Bradley Park is a charming out-of-town destination, spanning 653 hectares from the shores of Lyttelton Harbour to Mt Herbert, the highest peak (919m) on the Banks Peninsula. There is a wide array of short walks and longer tramps alongside a working farm park and numerous historic buildings. 45 minute to full-day walks.

Website: www.otahuna.co.nz

Rooms: 7

Price: from 1.655 EUR per night