Huka Lodge

Huka Lodge, a luxury retreat beside the Waikato River

Huka Lodge is a luxury accommodation establishment located in Taupō, on New Zealand's North Island, on the banks of the Waikato River and near Lake Taupō. It occupies 17 acres of landscaped gardens and presents itself as one of the world's most revered and inspirational luxury accommodations. Its origins date back to 1924, when it operated as a fishermen's camp with white canvas tents pitched beside a trout-rich river. Over time it became established as one of the country's oldest and most celebrated luxury lodges.

Accommodation: suites and private residences

The lodge has twenty guest suites and two exclusive owners' residences, the Alan Pye Cottage and the Alex van Heeren Cottage. The accommodations are distributed along the banks of the Waikato River and among verdant gardens, with access to lawns and views of the natural surroundings. The offering includes the Lodge Suite and the Lodge Suite with Fireplace.

Dining and wine cellar

The culinary offering is based on fine dining with a menu that changes daily and highlights the finest New Zealand produce. A vast wine cellar of premium vintages complements the offering. The restaurant, bar, lounges and terrace maintain a traditional lodge ambiance, and distinctive dining venues are dotted around the estate.

Experiences and activities

Among the available experiences are fly fishing, lake cruising, helicopter experiences, active pursuits and thrill-seeking adventures. The site also mentions a sample itinerary that combines the lodge with the local area, as well as spa offerings with a menu and bookings.

Setting and destination

The lodge is located in Taupō, an area known for its vast lake, gentle climate, leisurely pace and spectacular landscape. The location allows guests to explore the destination and its surroundings, with access to adventures and seasonal activities. The property is part of a collection of lodges and hotels under the Beckons brand, which groups properties in Australia, New Zealand, Canada and Chile.

Awards and press

Huka Lodge has received numerous accolades. These include its inclusion in Condé Nast Traveler's Gold List 2026, The World's 50 Best Hotels 2025 list (No. 88 on the 51-100 list and No. 82 in another edition), the Tatler Best Awards 2025, the Fodor's Finest 2026 list, selection for The WanderSleeps List, the Hotel Awards in the Best New Country Retreats category, two Michelin Keys 2026 and its inclusion in La Liste's World's Best Hotels 2026. The property has also been featured by media such as Wallpaper*, Delicious, Travel + Leisure, Forbes, AFR, Town & Country, Gourmet Traveller, Traveller, Condé Nast Traveller UK, Luxury Travel, Fodor's, Kia Ora and Big 7 Travel, which ranked it as the sixth most romantic hotel in the world and number one in New Zealand.

Transformation and new chapter

The lodge has undergone a transformation valued at NZ$25 million, carried out by Beckons and designer Virginia Fisher. Publications mention a renovation that has revitalised its historic charm with modern elegance, river views and personalised experiences, with enlarged suites, renewed interiors and a new wellness offering. Other sources put the investment at US$13.5 million or AU$23 million, and describe the reopening with a notable expansion.

Packages and stays

The lodge offers special packages with generous inclusions that allow for extended stays with additional benefits. These include the Classic Huka Stay, of three nights or more with premium extras, and the Baillie Escape, a shorter stay with generous inclusions. The site also details current inclusions, package enhancements and its own policies.

Location and contact

Phone: +64 7 378 5791 · Email: reserve@beckons.com