fbpx

Huka Lodge

New Zealand

Huka Lodge, New Zealand
July 1, 2017 Pauline

When the Huka Lodge It’s often talked about as one of the most beautiful hotels in the world. Located in New Zealand on the banks of the Waikato River, this hotel has been in operation since 1924 and is now a benchmark in the industry; it is part of the Relais & Châteaux chain. If you’re looking for a place that’s both peaceful and secluded, yet offers exceptionally professional service, Huka Lodge is the perfect choice.

Huka Lodge has very few rooms: in total, it features 18 Junior Lodge suites, one Lodge suite, and two cottages. The Owner’s Cottage can accommodate up to eight people, while the Alan Pye Cottage is ideal for two couples of friends. Everything has been designed with your comfort in mind, and you’ll especially appreciate the breathtaking view of the river. Soft linens, luxurious furnishings, an extra-large bathroom… everything is designed to make you never want to leave your room. And if you’d like to bring your children’s nanny along, Huka Lodge has provided private rooms for her or for an older child who can sleep on their own… what a thoughtful touch!

Whether you’re on your honeymoon or simply looking to treat yourself, the Huka Lodge has plenty to offer in terms of activities: horseback riding, hiking, golf, as well as a helicopter tour of the breathtaking scenery or a cruise on Lake Taupo… Depending on your budget and preferences, you’ll likely find there isn’t enough time to do it all.

And since once you’ve settled in at Huka Lodge, you probably won’t want to leave, the restaurant offers rich, creative cuisine that showcases local ingredients. A major perk of this hotel is that you can dine wherever you like: in the library, by the fireplace on the terrace, in the trophy room…

The estate map gives you a general idea of what to expect before you book.

In a nutshell

  • A vacation all about peace and quiet.
  • Service that will make you never want to leave the hotel.
  • One of New Zealand's most exclusive hotels.

Dining: The Brantry

If you'd like to step out of your little paradise and take a stroll through the town of Taupo, take the time to explore The Brantry, a restaurant known for its creativity and the quality of its dishes. Among its specialties are the feijoa tarte tatin and spiced apple ice cream… quite the treat.

Website: www.thebrantry.co.nz

With the kids

Children are very important in New Zealand. Your children will always be treated like royalty. Special packages have been designed for families, featuring activities for children of all ages.

A children's menu is available, and babysitting services are offered upon request.

Among the activities on offer, children will love horseback riding and kayaking, for example.

Address

Huka Lodge, 271 Huka Falls Road, Taupo 3377, New Zealand – website – Starting at 1,000 €

Inspiration

Shopping
Whether you have them delivered or pack them carefully, the creations by Lava Glass, absolutely stunning blown glass. Be sure to stop by for a cup of coffee in this bright and airy spot.

Out for a walk
Naturally, around Lake Taupo, New Zealand's largest lake.

Zen
For a quintessentially New Zealand experience, head to the Wairakei Terraces, which feature a variety of outdoor hot springs. Relax in the soothing, mineral-rich water.

In the suitcase
From the high-SPF sunscreen, especially in the summer, since the sun tends to burn quickly. You can also buy a wide-brimmed hat—a typical New Zealand style—which you'll find everywhere.

 

Recommended Reading
The indispensable Alan Duff and his book Once Were Warriors (The Soul of Warriors (in French).