Affectionately known as ‘the Grande dame’ of luxury lodges in NZ hosted both the world’s famous rockstars as well as royalty. She was 100 years old in 2024.
Recently completed a NZ$25million refurbishment led by new owners, Baillie Lodges.
Including an expanded dining room and bar, flowing out to a new outdoor terrace via large French doors. With a double-sided open fire warms lounging areas and tables for al fresco dining and drinks. (Bringing the inside -out).
Extended the River deck.
Fully renovated 2 rooms upstairs for private lounging, providing intimate dinner locations or special celebrations.
Aim was to create open spaces for guests to spend more time, relax.
Location & Getting There:
Huka Lodge enjoys a magnificent natural setting in the heart of New Zealand's north Island.
With the ever-changing Waikato River and Taupō's diverse landscape—volcanic lake, mountains, pastures, and pristine waters—offering tranquil and rewarding views.
Huka provides FOC return Taupō Airport transfers.
The Property:
Sprawling grounds, with extensive established gardens.
New wellness grounds were a natural addition.
The landscape designer describes the property as:
"a beautiful, spiritual place, with the Waikato River creating a real energy and lifeforce on the
property. For the wellness grounds we’ve created a space that is lush and tranquil and inspires peace".
There is also a new Helipad to the right of the Alan Pye Cottage.
The Lodge Suites:
20x Lodge Suites
King bedding (6x have split beds)
Intimate lounge area
Ensuite bathroom with deep bath, dual sinks.
Dressing room
Floor-to-ceiling glass windows, with French doors opening onto outdoor terraces & veranda
Magnificent rolling green lawns and river views
The Alan Pye Cottage:
Alan Pye is the owner's residence, set privately from the main lodge.
Two bedrooms each with ensuite bathrooms a dressing room and fireplace.
Generous open-plan and multiple living areas.
Well-equipped kitchen.
Courtyard garden with outdoor pavilion.
Private heated spa pool.
Outdoor terrace with plunge pool.
Dramatic river views.
The Alex Van Heeren Cottage:
Alex Van Heeren; the largest residence with 4x bedrooms.
Each with a fireplace, dressing room and ensuite bathrooms.
Expansive open-plan living areas
Den with fireplace and entertainment.
Fully-equipped kitchen.
Outdoor terrace with plunge pool and spa.
Courtyard garden with fireplace.
Private location with dramatic river views
Dining:
At the heart of dining at Huka Lodge is their main value of 'the spirit of generosity' for which the lodge is world-renowned.
It is an occasion showcasing New Zealand’s finest, often sustainably produced ingredients, the menus at Huka Lodge are daily changing and reflect the seasons and the environment outdoors.
· BF; premium, hearty country-style breakfast.
· Lunch; light à la carte - enjoyed fireside in the main lodge or on the sun-drenched terrace overlooking the gardens and Waikato River.
· Pre-dinner drinks and canapés.
· Dinner; a decadent five-course dinner, with a daily changing menu complete with world-class wines.
· Digestive; After a delicately balanced dinner, many guests retire to the bar or lounge to enjoy a digestif or nightcap.
Dining Options:
The newly expanded Dining Room and bar overlooking the river and gardens.
Guests can step from the River Room onto the outdoor terrace via large French doors, there are double-sided open fire warming the lounge areas and outdoor tables for al fresco dining and drinks.
There are also multiple private dining areas at Huka lodge which can be arranged (additional cost):
· Such as the Wine Cellar with Huka’s collection of fine vintages, a wonderful venue for private or special occasion dinners for two or up to ten guests.
· Interior upstairs private lounging areas include The Loft and the Piper Room, ideal for intimate dinners or special celebrations.
· Jetty Pavillion – sitting right on the Waikato River.
· Other exclusive dining nooks within the established gardens.
Curated Activities:
The luxurious setting at Huka Lodge invites leisurely pursuits onsite, including tennis, classic lawn games like 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.
There's also the wellness grounds - cold buckets and spa, gym, sauna and 2 treatment rooms.
Mt bikes and e-bikes available.
*All complimentary.
Alternatively, we can arrange off-site experiences in the Lake Taupō region, on your doorstep is traditional fly fishing on the banks of the Waikato River, hiking, luxury cruising, golfing and more.
Huka Lodge welcomes children ten years and over.
