Hapuku Lodge

Set amid a 1600-acre deer breeding farm and surrounded by some of New Zealand’s most majestic mountains is the visually stunning eco-oasis known as Hapuku Lodge. Consisting of five treehouses, four suites in the main lodge, and the standalone Olive House, the ethos of Hapuku Lodge is relaxed luxury; exemplified in their attentive yet easy-going hospitality. While your only neighbours surrounding the lodge are the few hundred grazing deer, Hapuku Lodge is only a 10 minute drive to Kaikoura; New Zealand’s famed whale-watching town.

Top tips

1. While all the rooms and suites of Hapuku Lodge are comfortably decorated and incredibly well-appointed, the hands-down star of the show are their 5 treehouses nestled 10 metres up in the branches, surrounded by captivating panoramic views. It goes without saying that their treehouses are incredibly popular. Since there are only 5 of them, it is highly recommended that you book your stay well in advance.

2. If you, however, cannot afford to stay in Hapuku Lodge’s famed treehouses don’t despair! You won’t miss out on the views because all their suites have balconies overlooking the beautiful surroundings. Each suite also has custom-made super-king-sized beds with feather toppers and lambs’ wool mattresses for a cosy night’s sleep; plus air-conditioning, a fireplace, couples’ baths, rain showers, a TV/ DVD player and minibar with complimentary craft beer, juices and local wine.

3. Unfortunately there is only one wheelchair accessible room as of right now (there are plans in place to add another accessible room). So if you or any of your travel partners have accessibility issues, make sure to check availability with Hapuku Lodge before you make a booking.

4. As a part of the first community in New Zealand and the second in the world to achieve EarthCheck Benchmark status, the world’s only global tourism environmental certification, it’s a bit of an understatement to say that Hapuku Lodge is an eco-warrior and outdoor-lover’s dream come true. From mountain biking to olive picking, beach-to-bush walks and picnic excursions, there are activities to suit anyone’s tastes (and fitness level). If you get bored inland, there are even more activities to wet your feet with (literally) on the ocean. From dolphin and seal watching to surfing, you are well and truly spoilt for choice.

5. You can’t really visit the Kaikoura area without taking a trip out to visit the permanent population of bachelor sperm whales. If you’re lucky (and there at the right time of year), you may even see humpback whales, pilot whales, blue whales and southern right whales or orcas. If you have your heart set one seeing whales, it’s recommended that you do your research on peak seasons throughout the year to increase your chances of an encounter.