The White Morph

Situated in beautiful mountain surroundings amongst groves of manuka trees, with panoramic views towards the South Pacific, Manakau Lodge is a luxury rural retreat.

This peaceful haven is ideal for relaxation, but is just a ten-minute drive from the shops and restaurants of Kaikoura, and many leisure activities. The lodge is also just a stone’s throw away from some great wilderness walks, and just minutes from beaches and coastal scenic reserves. It is the perfect base from which to explore Kaikoura and the magnificent surrounding areas.

Comfort is the main priority, and all four rooms are spacious and elegantly appointed, featuring New Zeland timber and locally furnishings. Breakfasts are a leisurely affair, and cheese and supper platters can be specially arranged in advance for those not wanting to dine in Kaikoura.

The work of a family of architects and builders, Hapuku Lodge is an extraordinary ecolodge perfectly placed between the white peaks of the Kaikoura Mountain Range and waves of Mangamaunu Bay. With an environmentally-friendly focus, this lodge was carefully constructed from salvaged timber and seeks to be sustainable in every area.

There are four ultra-spacious rooms in the main lodge with wonderful mountain views, Japanese soaking tubs with room for two and immense custom beds – said to be the best on the island. The two suites also have their own fireplaces and a living area.

However, the real stars of the show are the luxurious treehouses, standing 10m (30 feet) above the ground in the canopy of a native Manuka grove, each with a wood-burning fireplace, spa bath, open rain showers and large glass windows with a birds-eye view to the coast. There are two storey options for families, and the standalone Olive House Suite has room for two adults and up to three children.

Dining at Hapuku means an organic and locally-sourced menu, with produce collected from the hotel’s own herb and vegetable gardens, free-range chicken populations and meat from nearby hunters and fishermen. Constantly changing and evolving offerings may include venison, wild blackberries, a variety of cheese, crayfish and even homemade plum ice cream. A comprehensive wine list makes sure to incorporate vintages from all over New Zealand, the ideal accompaniment to a wonderful meal.

There are adventures to be had in every corner of Kaikoura’s coast, dubbed the ‘Maritime Serengeti’ by the local National Geographic. Head out on the waves in a sea kayak, swim with dolphins and seals or go whale watching to spot the gentle grey giants in the ocean blue. Mountain bikes can be borrowed from the lodge to traverse the surrounding trails while there are also Maori cultural tours, horse riding and the acclaimed surfing of Mangamaunu Bay a short walk away.