Experience tranquility amidst nature at this lavish rural hideaway in New Zealand
Huka Lodge in Taupó Undergoes Major Renovation
Nestled in the picturesque town of Taupó, New Zealand, the historic Huka Lodge has been transformed into a contemporary sanctuary after a NZ$25 million renovation led by Baillie Lodges.
Originally a fishing lodge, the Huka Lodge now boasts a blend of historic charm and modern edge, thanks to the architectural redesign by Christian Anderson Architects and interiors by Virginia Fisher. The renovation has resulted in a balance between modern comfort and the lodge’s heritage as a nature-integrated sanctuary.
The public spaces have been extensively reworked, with the Dining Room expanded to overlook the Waikato River and the lodge’s park-like gardens. Intimate dining venues such as the Loft and Piper Room have been added for smaller gatherings. The 25 lodge suites have undergone a light refresh, preserving their timeless layouts with lighter, less heavy decor updates.
Outdoor activities and itineraries have been curated to cater to a variety of interests. Guests can enjoy a heli-linked culinary experience with Craggy Range winery, cultural adventures in Rotorua, and spectacular helicopter tours showcasing Lake Taupo’s volcanic plateau and coasts.
The landscaping over 17 acres has been finessed by landscape architect Suzanne Turley, featuring fern grottos, layered gardens, and hedged walkways. The new wellness grounds at Huka Lodge can be reached via stepping stones set within lush gardens and offer two treatment rooms, a gym, sauna, cold-plunge bucket shower, and a steaming outdoor hot tub.
Virginia Fisher evolved Huka's tartan-accented, homely grandeur as the interior designer. Each Lodge Suite offers identical comfort with high-beamed ceilings, fireplaces, picture windows, terraces, and river views. The new River Room has floor-to-ceiling windows that frame the river in cinematic style.
The Huka Falls are minutes away from the Huka Lodge, and the address for the lodge is 271 Huka Falls Road, Wairakei, Taupó 3377, New Zealand. Evenings at Huka Lodge feature canapés, martinis, or glasses of New Zealand pinot on the terrace or in the River Room next to roaring fireplaces.
Huka Lodge has been transformed into a discreet sanctuary for royalty, rockstars, and those seeking refined wilderness. A sun-drenched long lunch on the terrace is a must on a clear day. Alan Pye Cottage, a two-bedroom retreat with a private courtyard, full kitchen, various living spaces, a heated pool, and a serene view of the Waikato River, adds to the lodge’s exclusivity.
Menus at Huka Lodge change daily and use seasonal, locally sourced produce. Taupó’s lakefront and geothermal landscapes offer hot springs, hiking, and helicopter excursions, making Huka Lodge an ideal base for exploring the region.
- After the major renovation, Huka Lodge seamlessly blends a contemporary lifestyle with home-and-garden charm, showcased in its expanded Dining Room overlooking the Waikato River and park-like gardens.
- Guests at Huka Lodge can indulge in travel experiences beyond the lodge premises, such as heli-linked culinary journeys to Craggy Range winery or cultural adventures in Rotorua, followed by a relaxing evening at the new wellness grounds with a sauna, cold-plunge shower, and outdoor hot tub.
