Hapuku Lodge & Tree Houses

Inhabited by Maori for the best part of 1000 years Kaikoura takes its name from the Maori interpretation of 'to eat crayfish' kai is to eat and koura is crayfish. Boasting a marine environment rich in nutrients the waters around Kaikoura have become synonymous with unsurpassed pelagic experiences.

With a peaceful location just a short drive north from the township of Kaikoura, Hapuku Lodge & Treehouses was created by a family of architects and builders. Originally developed in 2003 the accommodation here has evolved somewhat and the design is a contemporary complement to the natural setting. You can choose between the Hapuku Lodge Suites housed in the main building with splendid views of the Kaikoura Mountain Range; The Olive House Suite, a spacious apartment with a 360 degree panorama of the mountains and Pacific or, our favourite, the Treehouses. Perched high in the canopy of a native Manuka Grove these unique rooms have spectacular views, wood burning fireplaces, spa baths and a rain fountain shower which opens on to the tree-top deck. Breakfast and evening meals are included and take place in the dining room, the chef entertains a 'farm gate to plate' philosophy and the food is superb. The lodge is within a 10 minute walk of a wild surf beach and mountain bikes are also available for those who want to explore on two wheels.

In a valiant effort to protect their greatest asset - the environment, Kaikoura became the first place in New Zealand to achieve Green Globe Benchmark status, the world's only global tourism certification. Hapuku Lodge endeavour to contribute to this sustainability with a wide range of eco initiatives at the property. One such commitment is to introduce a native New Zealand plant for each guest night at the lodge, to date more than 16,000 trees and plants have been added to their land.

The rich waters offshore play host to a treasure trove of marine life and whilst renowned worldwide for the variety and accessibility of whales you will also find pods of dusky dolphins playing in the waves, colonies of fur seals lazing watchfully along the shoreline as well as five different species of albatross and the endangered Hutton's shearwater filling the skies above. Encounter Kaikoura offer supreme experiences with their albatross encounter which gets you up close and personal with not just albatross but petrels, shags, shearwaters, terns and gulls on their purpose built vessel. Their dolphin encounter gives you the opportunity to swim with, or watch, the dusky dolphins in their natural environment.

Inspired? Request to stay here as part of your tailor made holiday