New Zealand’s century-old Huka Lodge in Taupō has reopened on the banks of the Waikato River following a $14 million refurbishment led by owners Baillie Lodges. The significant enhancement is designed to preserve the iconic lodge’s hundred-year heritage and history. while introducing a series of carefully planned, contemporary features. For instance, guests will catch a glimpse of the Waikato River, as it flows towards Huka Falls, via the floor-to-ceiling windows in the new River Room.
New to the main lodge are an expanded Dining Room and bar that overlook the river and gardens, while upstairs, private lounging areas include The Loft and Piper Room, ideal for intimate dinners, special celebrations or meetings. Guests may step from the River Room onto the outdoor terrace via large French doors, where a double-sided open fire warms lounging areas and tables for al fresco dining and drinks, with views of the Waikato River and its checkered lawn banks.
Set in a secret garden and accessed via a pathway of paradise stepping stones sourced from the North Island, the new wellness grounds includes a series of huts that house a gym, two spa treatment rooms, a sauna, surprise ice contrast shower and a steaming plunge pool.
In addition, three new experiences have been introduced to coincide with Huka Lodge’s reopening: “The Craggy Range Culinary Escape” with food, wine and scenic heli flights; the “Epic Rotorua” culture and adventure day; and the “Ultimate Huka Experience” with heli lift-off in a northerly or southerly direction, elevating the guest experience.
James Baillie, founder of Baillie Lodges led the refurbishment, working with Auckland-based Christian Anderson Architects for the building design and partnering with New Zealand-born interior designer Virginia Fisher and landscape designer Suzanne Turley. Each of them was first appointed by Huka Lodge’s previous, long-term owner Alex van Heeren to direct the luxury lodge’s new product, look and feel.
Since then, Fisher has led the distinctive style of Huka Lodge with its traditional lodging spirit and interior spaces with signature tartan finishes, while Turley has created the gardens spanning nearly 17 acres, where high hedges, ferned grottos and layered gardens offer private outdoor spaces and a seasonally changing profile of plants and flowers.
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