Huka Lodge

This lodge is very special. Romantic. Classy. Don't miss it!! The setting is unbelievable, our room was darling, the food was very good and the staff is perfection! Before you commit to where you want to have dinner, please be sure you explore all possibilities. You can eat in the main dining room or outside on the porch. Those are obvious. After you’re there a day you will find out that there are special little places where you can eat as well. Across the way in the winery? Upstairs and outside? Down the lawn across the bridge? So many special places! If you don’t want to take the longer 8 hour hike, there is a short one hour hike nearby where you can check out the falls. There’s also a Hot Spring nearby so take your bathing suit! We’ll definitely go back!!

Huka Lodge stands head and shoulders above all other places we visited in New Zealand. That is high praise, since we stayed at several other outstanding, luxurious places. Huka is perfectly located on the banks of the Waikato river, just a few miles before it runs into Lake Taupo. The vegetation is beautiful and protects and shelters the lodge from the surrounding area, as well as the main road. This provides quiet, tranquility and privacy. Each room stands in isolation, separate from the main lodge and the other rooms, except for the room immediately adjacent to it. The rooms are spacious, with full-length, floor to ceiling French doors looking out on the river. Large bathrooms with his and hers sinks, a large tub, separate shower and separate toilet provide comfort, privacy and the option for two people to get ready simultaneously. The walk-in closet is also quite spacious, with room for several pieces of luggage. There is a coffee bar and a minibar, with beverages available on an honor system. The main lodge has multiple dining areas and a full bar. Meals are carefully prepared: a breakfast buffet can be supplemented by a l a carte items. Lunch and dinner are pre-set chefs tasting menus, all included in the lodging price. Cocktails and sundowners are complementary and are served with fresh canapes. Wines at meals are separate: the Lodge has an excellent selection of wines, both local and international.

What a delightful surprise this place turned out to be! It's a hidden gem that offers a perfect blend of comfort and charm. The atmosphere was so inviting, I felt instantly at home. The staff were friendly without being overbearing, always available when needed. I particularly enjoyed the little extras that made my experience special. It's clear that a lot of thought has gone into creating a memorable experience for guests.

If you're looking for a place that seamlessly blends tradition with modernity, look no further. This establishment manages to honor its rich heritage while embracing contemporary comforts and conveniences. The result is a unique experience that feels both timeless and fresh. I particularly appreciated the staff's deep knowledge

Stunning priority, excellent accommodation on the river, beautiful food, lovely staff and great walks Have travelled the world and stayed at some of the best resorts. This is up there with the best. Had 2 nights, which was just perfect. Very tranquil & relaxing. Beautiful location. The accommodation is beautiful done. Captures that elegant cabin feel but it is very luxurious.

This is one of the most beautiful lodges in the world. The grounds are manicured to perfection, the entire property sits on the banks of the Waikato River and adjacent to Huka Falls. The most exquisite aspect of this lodge is the setting, it defies description and pictures do not do it justice. There are blooming trees, bushes, brilliantly manicured hedges around a truly old world gaming lawn (croquet, bocce, etc) quiet spaces to sit on the banks of the river and magical areas hidden away for yoga, meditation or just to sit in awe of the grounds. The only thing that rivals the aesthetics is the cooking. My gosh, the food is absolutely amazing!! Nearly every single meal we had there ranked among the best we’ve had anywhere in the world! The chef even surprised us with an off script dinner that was lamb 3 ways because we kept raving about the lamb. Another beautiful touch is the transportation to the park where my husband and I hiked Huka Falls. When we returned the manager shared an absolutely hysterical exchange. He was fantastic the entire stay!! The villas, sitting on the banks of the river are exceptional. We had resident ducks on our patio politely asking for our minibar snacks regularly which was absolutely adorable. The rooms were spacious, lovely and perfectly cleaned. It was so perfect that we will be returning next year, in spite of the fact that it is half way around the world!