Description
Hapuku Lodge is idyllically set outside the seaside town of Kaikoura, in one of South Island's most spectacular settings. Designed by a family of architects and builders, Hapuku is a contemporary country lodge with suites and rooms in the main lodge building, a freestanding two bedroom suite in the grounds with its own kitchen and a collection of unique wood clad treehouses.
Each Tree House is architecturally stunning, perched high in a native Manuka grove with arresting panoramic views of the dramatic surroundings of the mountains. ocean and the lodge's own deer park. With only the most comfortable furnishings, natural wood accents that echo your tree-top location and modern amenities, a stay in these luxury Tree Houses makes for a totally unique experience.
The lodge itself serves delicious contemporary seasonal cuisine, locally sourced produce and a fantastic selection of fine New Zealand wine. The relaxed open plan dining room has an alpine feel, with simple wooden furniture, timber floors and cosy fireplace in winter and beautiful garden for summer dining. The main lodge houses a wonderful pool for sunny days and a roaring log fire, perfect for those colder winter months.
The lodge is positioned between the often snow capped mountains and the ocean and is a wonderful base for exploring the Kaikoura and East Coast area. Kaikoura is famous for its marine life and offers whale watching and the chance to swim with wild dolphins, making it the perfect destination for those with an adventurous streak.
Accommodation
The two Lodge Suites, Hapuku Room and Lodge Room are in the main lodge and are ultra spacious with hand made furniture, separate sleeping and living areas (in the suites & Hapuku Room), deep soaking tubs and a patio or balcony. The Olive House Suite is a spacious freestanding suite with kitchen, spa tub, fireplace and 360 degree view and can sleep 2 adults and 3 children. The six 1 and 2 bedroom wood clad treehouses are in the canopy of a tree 10m high, with picture windows and striking views.
Childcare
Children are very welcome in the 2 bedroom Family Tree Houses and the Olive House Suite which has its own kitchen and can accommodate up to 3 children. Children under 12 are not permitted in the main lodge rooms. A children's menu is available in the restaurant and highchairs, packed lunches and the heating of baby food are all easily organised. Kids will enjoy mountain biking and nature walks in and around the hotel's grounds as well as the hotel's own deer stud.
Facilities
Continental or cooked breakfasts and three course dinners are created in the lodge kitchen with a focus on fresh, local fish and meats, with many of the vegetables coming from its own gardens. The lodge has a great bar and picnics can be ordered for day trips. There is a 25 metre outdoor lap pool and hot tub with seating area and in room spa treatments can be arranged.
Activities
Mountain bikes are provided free of charge and it is an easy ride to the acclaimed surf beach of Mangamaunu Bay. The eco-marine town of Kaikoura is a 15 minute drive away and a great base for whale watching, swimming with dolphins. The local area has some great wineries, cafes and restaurants.
When to travel
The climate in New Zealand is incredibly pleasant, with warm and balmy summers and cold crisp winter months with wonderful clear, blue skies. The warmer high-season months of November to April are perfect for outdoor exploration. The colder months of June to August are the best time to ski.
Both North and South Islands are drier on the east coast, rather than on the west, where mountain ranges act as a trap for the moisture-rich winds from the Tasman Sea. It is also worth remembering that it is usually a few degrees cooler on the South Island than the North Island and as New Zealand has a maritime climate, the weather can change rapidly.
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Location and directions
Canterbury and the West Coast, New Zealand
Hapuku Lodge is situated just off State Highway 1 at the intersection of Station Road, 12kms North of Kaikoura. Kaikoura sits halfway between Blanheim and Christchurch on the East Coast of New Zealand’s South Island.
How to get there
Three airports are within reach of Hapuku Lodge: Kaikoura airport is 15-minutes' drive away; the larger international Christchurch Airport, to the south, is 2.5-hours' drive and Blenheim Airport, to the north, is 1.5-hour's drive. Alternatively, trains run daily between Picton and Christchurch, stopping off at Kaikoura. Kaikoura is a 10-minute drive from the hotel.
