Turning 30 is frightening, exciting, daunting and something price celebrating – . For my thirtieth birthday, the turn of a recent decade, I desired to travel somewhere special to me. I used to be within the mood for somewhere I already had a longtime reference to, but to experience something recent while I used to be there. A paradox? Maybe. But that turned out to be the catalyst for a thirtieth birthday gone incorrect – that’s, until it went so fantastically well, a 12 months later.
I booked my flight to New Zealand a few months before my thirtieth birthday. That was a 12 months ago when shortly thereafter the borders closed and my birthday travel plans turned to dust. But alas! I turned thirty plus one this 12 months and at last, the trip I had so yearned for was back on the cards. I used to be heading to New Zealand.
Huka Lodge in Taupo, New Zealand
I actually have long had a love affair with New Zealand. Anyone who has been to the country will let you know how great it’s in as many adjectives as you’ll care to hearken to. Stunning? Yes. Serene? You bet. At times completely surreal? You will soon see for yourself.
Given this wasn’t my first trip to New Zealand, I desired to stay somewhere phenomenal.
I had first heard about Huka Lodge from a friend who stayed and later discovered it on the duvet of a coffee table book showcasing the world’s most serene lodges. There it was – front cover. I knew I needed to go.
Huka Lodge is one of the celebrated luxury lodges in New Zealand. For many who’ve visited, it’s the crème de la crème of luxury travel in New Zealand. I couldn’t wait to search out out for myself just how magic it was and in fact, as a travel author, I used to be desperate to see if it lived as much as the hype.
The Setting
Huka Lodge is positioned in the center of the North Island of New Zealand, within the lakes district. The closest town is Taupō, which is in fact positioned on the banks of Lake Taupō, a volcanic caldera. And if that isn’t enough of a drawcard, the lake drains into Huka Falls, a mesmerising waterfall of alpine turquoise waters. And guess what? The falls are only a stones throw from the lodge itself, with the waters flowing directly out the front of your private patio.
If it sounds surreal, that’s since it is.
Upon arriving to the lodge, myself and my partner were shown across the principal areas – the lounge room with a comfortable fireplace, the outdoor dining area on the terrace, the kitchen and dining area. I’m told Her Late Majesty was a guest of the lodge and grew keen on the private dining room off the principal area, nonetheless she actually had her alternative of rooms considering she hired the lodge in its entirety during her stay.
By the time our tour concludes, we take a final swig of our welcome champagne and gladly accept an early check-in as we walk right down to the rooms. Each room faces the flowing river, which cascades into Huka Falls very near the lodge.
The rooms at Huka Lodge
I don’t learn about you, but I’m a sucker for a neutral palette. The rooms at Huka Lodge totally hit the mark and reflect the world during which the lodge resides. Given Taupō will be somewhat moody weather-wise, the rooms are quite homely and cosy as at times you is perhaps stuck inside avoiding the rain. For me, this was a highlight of the trip. In fact, it was the one day on our entire journey that it rained – leaving the right excuse to curve up by the faux fire with a bottle of Pinot Noir.
Aside from the fireside, cosy seating area and a separate office area in case work calls, the opposite major room highlights were the view (in fact) and the oversized bathroom with walk-in wardrobe. Believe me, this was a pinch me moment! Can you imagine waking as much as a view of the rain forest daily? I used to be starting to plot a plan to remain for good.
Around the Lodge
As I discussed earlier, Huka Lodge captured my attention when it was on the front cover of a coffee table book. Since then, I’ve envisaged being here, feeling that very serenity that effortlessly drew me in some years ago. And I can confirm – it truly is as magical in real life because it looks! The grounds are manicured to the purpose of feeling regal, with a sloped lawn that sprawls into the flowing water to effortlessly mix nature with a nurtured garden. It really is something to behold.
The Dining Experience at Huka Lodge
Next up, food. Because what would travel be without it? I used to be particularly excited to try the menu on offer each evening, but it surely was the breakfast outside on the terrace that actually stole the show. Included inside your room rate is a full a la carte menu, in addition to breakfast staples on the buffet inside. Think fresh juices, croissants, homemade granola and cured meats for the meat eaters.
Dinner was incredible as is to be expected of a lodge of this calibre, with top notch service and gastronomy coming together in perfect harmony. The first night was my birthday, which meant a surprise dessert and a singing waiter was so as (not kidding!) It really was a special night to recollect.
Book your stay
Book your stick with Huka Lodge directly for the very best rates and room selection. Rooms are $2,500 per room, per night. This features a generous breakfast and five course dinner, plus a cheeky pre-dinner aperitif within the lounge. If you’re travelling with more people, there are larger suites available.
Read more:
The Ultimate New Zealand Packing List
20 Best Places in New Zealand you could visit
Checking in to Matakauri Lodge, New Zealand
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