Description
Huka Lodge is an exclusive, stylish and private lodge surrounded by magnificent natural beauty. Attention to detail and high levels of service, cuisine and comfort all make Huka Lodge one of New Zealand's finest lodges. There are so many cosy places to curl up with a glass of wine and a book that you may never feel the need to leave this relaxing retreat but a short walk from Huka Lodge takes you to the banks of the mighty Waikato River, where the river flows down to the spectacular azure-blue cascades of the Huka Falls. This is just a taste of the vast range of dazzling sites and activities that await you in this spectacular region.
The peaceful Lodge Suites offer every comfort. Light, spacious and secluded they feature outdoor terraces and are ideally located just 20 metres from the river amongst mature trees. For those wanting privacy and what is effectively their own home, the four bedroom Owner's Cottage and two bedroom Alan Pye Cottage both have been exquisitely designed and appointed and not only have all the facilities such as fully equipped kitchens (perfect for self catering or for one of Huka's chefs to whip up a delicious feast) but also their own private infinity swimming pools with heart stopping views of the extraordinary surrounds.
The main lodge is home to cosy fireplaces, comfortable chairs and is where guests can gather at breakfast or in the evenings for drinks and canapés to chat about the adventures of the day. Meals can be served here or there are over twenty venues, inside and out, perfect for private dining including the wine cellar, jetty pavilion and the orchard - wherever you choose, the standards for cuisine and service here are exacting and each meal is treated as special.
The activities at Huka Lodge really are endless. From the adrenalin rush of sky diving, white water rafting, jet boating, bungee jumping - even hunting for deer, to the more relaxing pursuits such as horse riding, sailing, trout fishing and private picnics. The crystal clear waters of Lake Taupo are fed by mountain streams and are home to some of the most sought-after Rainbow trout in the world. Fabulous soothing massage and beauty treatments can be enjoyed in the comfort of your room whether you have had a busy day adventuring or have spent it relaxing by the lodge's tranquil swimming pool.
Accommodation
There are 18 Junior Lodge Suites, 1 Lodge Suite, 2 Huka Cottages, a 4 bedroom Owner's Cottage and a 2 bedroom Alan Pye Cottage. The luxurious Junior Lodge Suites are simple, spacious and light with decadent bathrooms and dressing rooms and the feel of a real retreat with panoramic views of rushing water. The exclusive Huka Cottages have one bedroom and are very private as are the spectacular Owner's and Alan Pye Cottages, both with stunning infinity pool, spa pool, kitchen, living room and den.
Childcare
Huka Lodge welcomes children and can provide cots, extra beds and car seats where needed. The Lodge Suites interconnect so are great for families as are the two private cottages where you can choose to self cater. Babysitting is available and children will love the swimming pool, spa pool, mountain bikes, tennis and petanque on site. Children are welcome in the lodge's restaurant for breakfast and lunch and the lodge can provide high chairs, children's menus and children's packed lunches.
Facilities
Private dining venues are endless at Huka Lodge with the Trophy Room, Library and outdoor deck with fireplace all being very atmospheric. A private chef can also come to any of the cottages with kitchens. The main lodge is used for breakfast and evening drinks where guests can assemble and share stories of their day as well as fine cuisine and wine. There is a tennis court, petanque and croquet as well as a pool complex with one main pool and two spa pools, and indulgent in-room spa treatments.
Activities
Tennis is available on site and mountain bikes are provided for guest who want to explore independently. The surrounding region offers a huge array of activities including hot pools, lake activities, fly, jet & raft fishing, water skiing, tandem skydiving, jet boating, white water rafting, hunting, bungee jumping, horse riding, sailing, kayaking, rock climbing, abseiling, golf and scenic helicopter flights.
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
Taupo, New Zealand
Huka Lodge is situated in Taupo, in the central North Island of New Zealand. The Lodge is nestled amongst 17-acres of mature and manicured gardens on the banks of the mighty Waikato River, upstream from the Huka Falls.
How to get there
Scheduled domestic flights travel daily to Taupo from Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch. Alternatively, helicopter transfers from Auckland, Wellington and Rotorua are available and land on the front lawn of Huka Lodge. Driving takes approx 3-4 hours from Auckland, 4.5-hours from Wellington and 1-hour from Rotorua.
