Style: August 03, 2017

STYLE | report 25
Huka Lodge Owner’s Cottage
Huka Lodge Owner’s Cottage
A world where elegant and generous hospitality meets
sophistication and style – Huka Lodge
Not far from the wilderness escape of
Poronui is the famous Huka Lodge. What was
a tented fishing stay in the 1920s has become a
retreat with a worldwide reputation.
Huka Lodge offers just 25 rooms including
18 Junior Lodge Suites, one double Lodge
Suite, the four-bedroom Owner’s Cottage
and the two-bedroom Alan Pye Cottage. The
suites all enjoy uninterrupted views of the deep
Waikato River, the sound of its rushing water
inducing relaxation in an instant. The grounds
boast a tennis court, swimming and spa pools,
petanque and croquet, and spa treatments are
also on offer.
One of the most endearing parts of Huka
Lodge is its private dining venues. More than 20
are hidden away in and around the property;
some amongst the garden, others in private
rooms within the lodge. Some of my personal
favourites are:
The Library: A cosy book-lined room which
is the only room The Queen has chosen to
dine in on her past three stays. The modest
room has tartan flooring and an open fire as the
centrepiece. It’s suitable for two to 10 guests.
The Wine Cellar: This is a spectacular
underground chamber across from the main
lodge that is lined with fine vintages, most which
are New Zealand wines. Can seat two to 10
guests, with the lodge often holding degustation
dinners here with famous chefs.
Jetty Pavilion: By far the most stunning dining
location. Here you can enjoy your meal or predinner
drinks right on the river bank. A mirror
situated behind the table, reflecting the river,
adds to the ambience of the setting. Can seat
two to six guests.
Green Room: One of the many outdoor
styled locations that offers complete seclusion
and privacy. Suitable for two to six diners.
Huka Lodge
Best Time To Go: September. Take advantage
of one of Huka Lodges retreats – the Wellness
Weekend (September 15-16). Running
over two-nights, experience a total body
rejuvenation with classes run by experts in yoga,
nutrition and wellbeing. A perfect girls weekend
or an ideal couples retreat.
Recommendations: A late night swim under
the stars in the heated pool and hot tub while
listening to the roaring river that is metres away.
Tariff: Autumn-winter rates see the Junior Suite
at $1255 per person, per night, up to the high
season rates for the Owner’s Cottage at $7188
per person, per night, for one suite.
Details: Huka Lodge, 271 Huka Falls Road,
Taupo, hukalodge.co.nz