Waipoua Lodge

On the edge of Waipoua Forest, along the Twin Coast Discovery Highway in Northland.

There are just four luxurious and spacious suites to choose from, and each one has its own individual character. They have one or two bedrooms, and the larger suites are ideal for families. They all come kitchenettes and comfortable lounges with flatscreen TVs and DVD players (choose a DVD from the extensive collection of over 300 titles), as well as stylish bathrooms, some with clawfoot baths. Private balconies or terraces overlook colourful gardens and the forest beyond, where you can relax, listening to birdsong. Extra touches include complimentary sherry, fruit, biscuits and chocolates.

Hostess Fran is a superb chef and creates a gorgeous a la carte menu that blends her French influences with traditional New Zealand cooking. Wake up to a delicious breakfast of seasonal fresh fruit, yoghurt, eggs and warm croissants. For dinner, fresh produce and local seafood and meats are infused with Maori herbs and spices, and accompanying wines are handpicked from local vineyards. 

Enjoy a post-dinner soak in the candlelit Jacuzzi after dark - a perfect way to unwind before bed.

Follow the bushwalk at the end of the garden to explore the surrounding nature and wildlife, and hike or cycle through the beautiful Waipoua Forest, passing rivers, waterfalls, native bush and legendary kauri trees, including the oldest and widest kauri tree in the world, the 3,500-year-old Te Matua Ngahere (Father of the Forest), and the largest and probably most famous kauri tree in the world, the 2,500-year-old Tane Mahuta (Lord or God of the Forest). Learn more about the fascinating history of the area with a local Maori guide. 

Further afield, hop in the car to cruise along New Zealand’s longest drivable golden sand beach, or enjoy a thrilling sand dune safari along the rugged coastline. We also recommend visiting the beautiful Kai Iwi Lakes.