El Retablo

Founded as a fisherman’s camp in 1924 with white canvas tents pegged by the Waikato River, Huka Lodge was recogniszd first as a best-kept secret among anglers and grew in popularity with guests from around the world drawn to the property’s signature checked lawns leading to the river’s swirling eddies and rushing rapids. Almost a century on, Huka Lodge has a grand heritage, rich in stories and history to be discovered.

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 tents along the river’s edge, today Huka Lodge has secured its place as one of the country’s oldest and celebrated luxury lodges.

The fine dining and exceptional cuisine on offer at Huka Lodge continues to define the world-class hospitality experience. A vast wine cellar of premium vintages complements a daily-changing menu, showcasing New Zealand’s finest produce. The restaurant, bar, lounges and terrace offer a traditional lodging ambiance, while more than twenty dining venues are dotted around the established gardens.

Suites

Fit for a King and Queen: twenty guest suites along with two exclusive owners' residences, the Alan Pye Cottage and Alex van Heeren Cottage, are dotted along the banks of the Waikato River and among verdant gardens, each opening onto rolling green lawns and with the sounds of birdsong and the burbling river as nature's orchestral score.

Overlooking the ever-changing Waikato River – one moment lazy and deep, the next swirling and icy blue - Huka Lodge is set among beautiful, award-winning gardens with myriad private nooks for lounging and dining, high-hedged pathways and shaded groves. A tennis court and croquet lawn invite refined pastimes in the open air.

Huka Falls

Just downstream from Huka Lodge, the calmly flowing Waikato River gains momentum as it heads towards a natural channel before plunging eleven metres in an icy blue churn along a graduated waterfall, Huka Falls. Guests at Huka Lodge can embark on the Spa Park circuit walk which runs along the riverbanks to a bridge that crosses the river or platforms that offer views of the falls mid-stream, allowing a real sense of the water’s power and thunderous roar.

Kia ora

A visit to Taupō offers a wonderful chance to engage with local Māori culture and discover its stories and heritage. Lake Taupō is rich in Māori history, and there are several cultural experiences available for travellers who want to learn more about the region’s indigenous culture. You can visit the Ngātoroirangi Mine Bay Māori rock carvings, attend a cultural performance, or take a bespoke guided tour with a local Māori guide to connect you to te ao Māori (the Māori world).

Fly Fishing

For guests at Huka Lodge, a fly fishing adventure may be a half or full day experience, in the company of a personal fishing guide. Guides provide pick up and drop off, transfer to the day’s chosen fishing location as well as top quality rods, reels, waders and flies. Fly fishing casting lessons are also available on the Huka Lodge lawns with a dedicated fly fishing instructor.