​Huka Lodge

​​​​​New Zealand

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  • Long regarded as one of the world’s most revered and inspirational luxury accommodations, Huka Lodge is set among established gardens along the banks of the surging Waikato River near Lake Taupō on New Zealand’s North Island. 

    With humble beginnings nearly a century ago as a fishermen’s camp made famous for its trout-rich waters and featuring white canvas tenrs along the river’s edge, toda, Huka Lodge has secured its place as one of the cou ntry’s oldest and most celebrated luxury lodges with an impressive heritage, welcoming some of the world’s most influential guests to the region.

The Accommodation

Fit for a king

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  • Twenty Junior Lodge guest suites and two exclusive multi-bedroom owners’ residences, the Alan Pye and Alex van Heeren Cottages, dot the 17-acre Huka Lodge parkland, each privately set and opening onto verdant views of the gardens and beyond to the flowing, deep turquoise Waikato River. Ideal for house parties, the two owners’ cottages are designed to provide the ultimate Huka Lodge hospitality experience. The Alex van Heeren Cottage, and its companion the Alan Pye Cottage are both perfect venues for exclusive gatherings for family and friends. Here, guests enjoy the best of both worlds: a private self-contained residence with access to all the Huka Lodge luxuries. 

  • Junior Lodge Suite

    49m2 of indoor and outdoor living

    True retreats in every sense, the Junior Lodge Suites at Huka Lodge each open on to the Waikato River and are designed to offer personalised luxury and a harmonious flow with the spectacular natural landscape outside

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  • Alan Pye Cottage

    325m2 of indoor and outdoor living

    The two-bedroom owner's residence, the Alan Pye Cottage makes the most of its superb location, set above lush rolling green lawns and manicured gardens on the banks of the Waikato River.

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  • Alex van Heeren Cottage

    364m2 OF INDOOR AND OUTDOOR LIVING

    Set on a sunny private bluff on the banks of the Waikato River, the four-bedroom Alex van Heeren Cottage offers a secluded retreat with views downstream towards the thundering Huka Falls.

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Dining at Huka Lodge

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  • Dining at Huka Lodge is at the heart of the tradition of generous hospitality for which the lodge is world-renowned. Showcasing New Zealand’s finest, often sustainably produced ingredients and complemented by a magnificent selection of wine, the menus at Huka Lodge change daily and reflect the seasons and the environment outdoors. Dining can be enjoyed in the sumptuous surrounds of the main lodge or experienced in one of the lodges unique dining locations dotted around the property, from the Wine Cellar to the Orchard or Jetty Pavilion.

  • Breakfast

    A hearty country-style breakfast set up in the main lodge at Huka is a wonderful start to the day, whether it’s planned as full of adventures or for relaxing in the gardens by the Waikato River. Guests can look forward to fresh eggs, free range bacon and local tomatoes, mushrooms and greens, along with fresh juices, steaming pots of loose-leaf tea and espresso coffee.

  • Lunch

    A light à la carte lunch menu is available for guests and may be enjoyed fireside in the main lodge or on the sun-drenched terrace overlooking the gardens and Waikato River. Local organic and free-range produce including chicken and beef are complemented by fresh greens, lodge baked bread and fine wines.

  • Dinner

    Dinner starts with a relaxed drink in the lounge, and proceeds to a finely balanced menu bringing fresh local flavours to the plate. Guests can look forward to regional delights like Te Matuku oysters, Matangi Beef, Mount Cook Alpine Salmon and Southland lamb on the daily-changing menu.

  • Wine cellar

    A vast underground labyrinth housing some 4500 bottles of wine, the Wine Cellar at Huka Lodge is an attraction in itself, prompting some dedicated time to peruse its collection of fine vintages. The wine cellar is also a wonderful venue for private or special occasion dinners for two or up to ten guests.

  • Our Chef

    • Executive Chef Ryan Ward brings over 20 years of culinary expertise to Huka Lodge, having previously led the culinary team at Longitude 131° and held prestigious Head Chef positions at luxury resorts in Fiji and Brisbane’s Gallery of Modern Art. His culinary prowess earned him two hat statuses for three consecutive years. Drawn by the abundance of premium local produce in the region, Ryan joined Huka Lodge, curating menus that change daily and showcase the finest flavours and ingredients available.

    • With his wife Bridie Bush as Assistant Lodge Manager, they create a harmonious presence at Huka Lodge, offering culinary artistry and impeccable service. Ryan’s leadership extends beyond the kitchen, fostering a collaborative and inspiring environment for the culinary team to reach their full potential. Under his guidance, Huka Lodge continues its reputation as a world-class culinary destination, where innovation, exceptional flavours, and warm hospitality combine to create unforgettable dining experiences.

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  • Experiences at Huka Lodge

    A stay in the spectacular park-like surrounds of Huka Lodge at Taupō, places guests at the doorstep to a host of wonderful experiences of the destination, from the traditional fly fishing on the banks of the Waikato River to hiking, luxury cruising, golfing and more. Of course, the luxurious setting at Huka Lodge invites leisurely pursuits onsite, including tennis, 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

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  • Aquatic adventures

    These aquatic activities are considered to be must-dos during your stay. From fly fishing to exhilarating jet boating or white water rafting, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

    • Fly Fishing

      Fly fishing for trout in Taupō's rivers is steeped in local tradition, and was the original calling for travellers who came to stay at Huka Lodge almost a century ago. Today, the banks around Taupō remain rich in Brown and Rainbow trout.

    • White Water Rafting

      White water rafting is famed as New Zealand’s most popular outdoor adventure, offering the chance to feel the powerful force of pristine rivers and float past serene green wilderness.

    • Jet Boating

      Championed as one of New Zealand’s premiere thrill-seeking adventures, a jet boat tour takes guests skimming and spinning along the Waikato River and to the base of Huka Falls on one of the most action-packed experiences in the region.

    • Luxury Cruising

      A scenic tour of Lake Taupō on a luxury cruiser is a wonderful way to spend a relaxed afternoon, taking in views of the spectacular mountain-lined backdrop, Māori rock carvings and secluded bays with optional trout fishing and gourmet lunch.

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  • Land expeditions

    These land-based activities are the essentials during a stay in Taupō. From cultural discoveries, a round of golf or unforgettable hiking expeditions, the choices are endless.

    • Hiking

      The geography of Taupō's central tableland surrounded by dramatic volcanic peaks and combined with pristine wilderness, complex waterways and a strong Māori culture make it a fascinating region for walking and hiking.

    • Cultural experiences

      Take part in the unforgettable Ata Mai Māori Cultural Experience, and make a personal connection with a member of the local Māori tribe, Ngati Tuwharetoa.

    • Golfing

      Huka Lodge is centrally located to some of the world’s most challenging and picturesque championship golf courses. Two world-class courses allow Huka Lodge guests to experience 18 holes of Aotearoa beauty.