Huka Lodge

Not the luxury lodge you would expect from this price point. There were multiple signs throughout the room with prices for items (a backpack left in the room, room slippers). I’ve been given nicer backpacks for free at other lodges and was shocked they were trying to charge for this one. Prices were listed on the menus for the included cocktail hour, my masseuse tried to sell me on a $40 eye mask during my massage. Poor taste at a property like Huka. The staff were all at the lodge for less than a year and it showed. They were unfamiliar with the lodge amenities, things to do around the area and even general NZ info. We were never told lunch was included with our stay and they even had a sign in the room (again) that we would be charged for lunch. Also left was a sign that we would be charged 100% of our massage if we canceled less than 24 hrs before our appt. The lodge is nice but they need to work on their service.

Stepping into this hotel felt like entering a different world. The elegant décor and peaceful atmosphere instantly melted away our travel stress. Every interaction with the staff was genuine and warm, not the rehearsed politeness you often find elsewhere. The public spaces were immaculately maintained, and the subtle background music created the perfect mood. I particularly appreciated the quiet efficiency of the housekeeping team.

Beautiful lodge, wonderfully appointed rooms, very nice staff. Nice breakfast and dinners. Book your dinner location early to mix up the views. Enjoy a cocktail, cheees and crackers in library. Excellent hiking all around - the lodge is stunning but do get out to enjoy magical hikes.

Stunning priority, excellent accommodation on the river, beautiful food, lovely staff and great walks Have travelled the world and stayed at some of the best resorts. This is up there with the best. Had 2 nights, which was just perfect. Very tranquil & relaxing. Beautiful location. The accommodation is beautiful done. Captures that elegant cabin feel but it is very luxurious.

This is one of the most beautiful lodges in the world. The grounds are manicured to perfection, the entire property sits on the banks of the Waikato River and adjacent to Huka Falls. The most exquisite aspect of this lodge is the setting, it defies description and pictures do not do it justice. There are blooming trees, bushes, brilliantly manicured hedges around a truly old world gaming lawn (croquet, bocce, etc) quiet spaces to sit on the banks of the river and magical areas hidden away for yoga, meditation or just to sit in awe of the grounds. The only thing that rivals the aesthetics is the cooking. My gosh, the food is absolutely amazing!! Nearly every single meal we had there ranked among the best we’ve had anywhere in the world! The chef even surprised us with an off script dinner that was lamb 3 ways because we kept raving about the lamb. Another beautiful touch is the transportation to the park where my husband and I hiked Huka Falls. When we returned the manager shared an absolutely hysterical exchange. He was fantastic the entire stay!! The villas, sitting on the banks of the river are exceptional. We had resident ducks on our patio politely asking for our minibar snacks regularly which was absolutely adorable. The rooms were spacious, lovely and perfectly cleaned. It was so perfect that we will be returning next year, in spite of the fact that it is half way around the world!