Southern Destinations: November 07, 2019

southern holiday destinations spring-summer 2020
wAImAtE
9
tHe WonderS oF Waimate
If you are searching for a destination that offers
spectacular scenery, activities to suit all genre and
eateries to tempt any taste buds, the Waimate
district is the place to be.
Nestled in the rolling foothills of the central South
Island, about 45 kilometres south of Timaru,
Waimate is a thriving town that offers travellers
a unique destination off the beaten track. The
region is blessed with a vast array of stunning
landscapes. Pristine rivers and lakes, native bush
teeming with wildlife, including the infamous
Bennett’s Wallaby, rolling hills and an expansive
rugged coastline make up this wonderful district.
During your stay, check out the Maori rock art
at Maungati, look for fossils in the remarkable
limestone cliffs along the banks of the Waihao
River, or visit the site where millions of moa bones
have been excavated at Kapua and learn about
these amazing birds.
QUeenS Lodge
Established in 1854, Waimate’s streets tell a
story that is rich in history with incredible silo
art towering over the town, stunning Edwardian
architecture, historic churches and many buildings
of cultural significance. The beautifully maintained
public gardens and reserves are a great place
to relax, or be spoilt for choice with the many
walking and mountain biking tracks from familyfriendly
riverside strolls to steep undulating
terrain.
Waimate hosts many events each year, with
several big events drawing crowds from near
and far. Rumour has it they know how to throw a
good party! The famous Waimate 50 Motorsport
Festival held in October sees the countries best
race car drivers battle it out around the streets
of Waimate for a weekend of adrenalin and
racing car action. Waimate is also known for its
juicy strawberries which have always played an
important role in the local economy, and so the
Strawberry Fare was created to honour this. The
fare sees 14,000 visitors head to the town for this
free family day out, with all day entertainment,
upmarket stalls and colorful rovers and
entertainers.
There are accommodation options to suit all
travellers, from cosy B&B’s, motels and pub style
rooms to the many scenic campsites scattered
around the region. While you are here, tame
your hunger pangs at the many eateries on offer,
whether you are after a juicy steak, light snack
or a fine dining experience. The friendly locals
will welcome you with their warm country style
hospitality, so head over to waimate.org.nz to
check out the busy event calendar, and to start
planning your holiday at this remarkable South
Island destination. The Waimate district truly is a
district to explore.
The historic building sits on the corner of Queen
Street and Mill Road in Waimate. As well as a
function centre and accommodation, the Queens
Lodge is home to a café and restaurant, that offer
a unique dining experience. Artifax Café and the
Game Keeper’s Restaurant are both museumstyled
with displays from Waimate, New Zealand,
Asia and around the world including archeologic,
natural history, geology, steampunk and religious
items. New displays are created each month.
The restaurant and café provide house-made
foods with ingredients sourced from local growers
and suppliers. Our signature dishes include the
umami black garlic steaks and burgers made
with our own black garlic. A selection of local
wines and beers are available too. The coffee, is
considered one of a kind, exceptional. The cafes
barista says, “We use ‘Unknown Chapter’ beans
which are amazing however, it is the rare Pascucci
coffee machine that makes all the difference.” The
Pascucci known as the Italian Stallion, is one of
only 11 in the world and irreplaceable.
Queens Lodge is located in the historic 1900’s
home of the towns renowned doctor, Dr Arthur
Gentry Pitts and was formally known as the
Criterion Hotel. The building is being lovingly
restored to its former glory. Currently, the
Queens Lodge provides 8 backpacker style
accommodation units and suits. Some of the units
have access to the upstairs balcony with views of
the historic silo murals, across the road.
Just a couple of hundred meters down the tree
lined street is Victoria Park, where you can visit the
free wallaby enclosure and aviaries, walk in the
gardens, or enjoy a picnic lunch. A range of picnic
basket options are available from Artifax Café.
explore the wonders of
waimate district today!
Wallabies | Cycling & Walking Tracks | Silo Art | Fishing & Boating | Golf Heritage
Hunting | Parks & Playgrounds | Fossils | Horse Riding
waimate.org.nz
Heading south or to the lakes?
Stop and visit the museum style cafe and restaurant.
Enjoy a connoisseurs coffee, we have the only
genuine Pascucci coffee machine in New Zealand.
Stay in the historic homestead.
Cnr Queen Street & Mill Road, Waimate
For reservations phone 027 313 6575
queenslodgewaimate@gmail.com