Hapuku Lodge sits ten kilometres north of Kaikōura on the east coast of New Zealand's South Island, between the Kaikōura Ranges and the Pacific. It is owned by a family of architects and builders, and the buildings show it. The tree houses are the signature: raised about ten metres off the ground among native kānuka and pūriri trees, clad in copper shingles and local timber, with views of the mountains, the ocean and the birdlife, and indoor-outdoor showers. There are also Lodge Suites with a farm and mountain outlook, and the Olive House, a three-bedroom house in the building that once held the estate's olive press, which suits families and friends. Food is simple, organic and locally sourced, and guests book their own table for dinner, as they would in a restaurant. Mountain bikes and the walking trails are included, and the lodge offers spa treatments, yoga and evenings watching the night sky. There is a helipad for arrivals by air. The whole property can also be booked for weddings and private celebrations.
- Nearest airport
- Blenheim Airport, 76 Miles / 123 Kilometres
- Rooms
- 10 tree houses, lodge suites and a three-bedroom house
- Taken whole
- Five tree houses, four lodge suites and the Olive House, up to 30 overnight guests
Insider tip If you are coming from Christchurch, allow about two and a half hours by road, or arrange a helicopter to the lodge's own helipad.
Why I choose it We choose Hapuku for an architect-built lodge with real personality, where the tree houses put you between the mountains and the sea.
