Huka Lodge began more than a century ago as a fishing camp of white canvas tents on the banks of the Waikato River, a few hundred metres upstream from Huka Falls and close to Lake Taupō on the North Island of New Zealand. Today it is one of the country's oldest lodges, set in 17 acres of mature parkland designated a Garden of National Significance. Twenty suites are spread along the river and through the gardens, each opening onto its own stretch of lawn, with a large bedroom and separate dressing room and bathroom; some have fireplaces. Two owners' residences stand apart from the lodge, the Alan Pye Cottage and the four-suite Alex van Heeren Cottage, for families or friends who want a house of their own. The main lodge keeps a tartan carpet and a roaring open fire. Fly fishing is still the heart of the place, with Lake Taupō and some 40 rivers nearby full of trout, and there is rafting, golf, riding, lake cruising and helicopter trips besides. The spa adds a quieter way to spend an afternoon by the river.
- Nearest airport
- Taupō Airport (TUO), 7 Miles / 11 Kilometres
- Rooms
- 20 suites and two cottages
Insider tip Arrive by helicopter: the flight from Auckland takes about an hour and a quarter against three to four hours by road, and from Rotorua it is only 25 minutes.
Why I choose it A grand old New Zealand lodge on one of the country's loveliest rivers, as good for a quiet few days as for serious fishing, and a natural stop on a North Island journey.
