Turning 30 is frightening, exciting, daunting and something price celebrating – all of sudden. For my thirtieth birthday, the turn of a latest 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 latest while I used to be there. A paradox? Possibly. But that turned out to be the catalyst for a thirtieth birthday gone improper – that’s, until it went so fantastically well, a 12 months later.
I booked my flight to Recent 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 eventually, the trip I had so yearned for was back on the cards. I used to be heading to Recent Zealand.
Huka Lodge in Taupo, Recent Zealand
I even have long had a love affair with Recent 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 take heed to. Stunning? Yes. Serene? You bet. At times completely surreal? You’ll soon see for yourself.
Given this wasn’t my first trip to Recent 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 quilt 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 probably the most celebrated luxury lodges in Recent Zealand. For a lot of who’ve visited, it’s the crème de la crème of luxury travel in Recent 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 wanting to see if it lived as much as the hype.
The Setting
Huka Lodge is situated in the center of the North Island of Recent Zealand, within the lakes district. The closest town is Taupō, which is in fact situated 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 primary 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 primary area, nevertheless she actually had her alternative of rooms considering she hired the lodge in its entirety during her stay.
By the point 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 realm during which the lodge resides. Given Taupō will be a bit moody weather-wise, the rooms are quite homely and cosy as at times you may be stuck inside avoiding the rain. For me, this was a highlight of the trip. The truth is, 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.
Apart from the hearth, 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. Imagine me, this was a pinch me moment! Are you able to imagine waking as much as a view of the rain forest on daily basis? I used to be starting to plan a plan to remain for good.
Across 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 truly 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, however it 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 primary 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 most effective 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 front room. For those who’re travelling with more people, there are larger suites available.
Read more:
The Ultimate Recent Zealand Packing List
20 Best Places in Recent Zealand it’s essential to visit
Checking in to Matakauri Lodge, Recent Zealand
