Otahuna Lodge

In 2015, I had a very quick site inspection to Otahuna Lodge.  I knew at the time this is not the type of property you can visit for an hour and really appreciate.  For my first visit, follow this link:

I was coming from Akaroa after having completed a boat ride to see the world’s smallest dolphins.  The drive was about an hour.  From Christchurch, it is so quick and easy to get to Otahuna – both downtown or the airport are about a 30 minute drive.  The property is just east of a small town, Tai Tapu and located off Rhodes Rd.  The expansive front lawn acts as a heli pad.  Guests who drive to the property are buzzed in from the main gate and follow the short drive way through the trees to the house.  From the manicured property to the raked gravel, you know it will be an oasis.  Guests are greeted by the owners, Hall and Miles, and usually at least one more staff member.  If driving, they will park your car for you while another staff member handles your luggage.

I was upgraded to the fabulous Rhodes Suite.  Otahuna only has 7 rooms suites total with two suites larger than the rest.  The Rhodes Suite has the largest square footage and a small veranda overlooking the front great lawn while the Veranda Suite has a very large Veranda and small inside space.  The Rhodes Suite has a main bedroom with a real wood fireplace, a reading room in the turret (can also be used for the evening meal), an office area, and a large bathroom with shower, single vanity, and separate soaking tub.  Palatial really is the word to describe the suite.  It embodies comfort, elegance, and luxury.

The bathroom is smaller than the Veranda Suite, but is quite adequate.

I enjoyed my evening meal (included in the rate) with the owners, Miles and Hall. The menu is placed in your room prior to the meal and gives the hint of what is to come of the 5 course meal with wine pairing. We enjoyed our meal in the formal dining room. This room is full of history, the wallpaper is original to the property. The stage is set grandly – from candles to the fireplace to the fine china. Chef Jimmy, who is available for cooking classes with prior arrangement, I really wanted to steal and bring home with me. His cooking is perfection. The wines are presented with tasting notes with the each course. The meal is a true culinary delight.

There are many aspects to Otahuna I love and some surprised me.  I was at the end of a long (fun) trip in New Zealand which I had beautiful autumn weather and it seemed New Zealand was sad I was leaving as it started to rain while I was there.  When I first arrived to the property, I was asked if I cared for some wine or another drink (they know my preferences).  It really is lovely to be served a glass of wine on a plate of silver.  I had a lot of work to catch up on and before dinner, had some tea.  Also served on silver, I had my own tea pot and cup on matching china.  It is a level of service expected at luxury properties and Otahuna does it well and unassuming.  I was so comfortable , cozy and relaxed.  After my evening meal, the fire was lit for my room and I had home made chocolates with water by the bed for turndown.

At the top of the stairs is a cabinet with snacks, soft drinks, and juices to self serve, as desired.

Otahuna is a great location near many activities to enjoy.  Guests must spend time on the property, visiting the expansive gardens.  The great lawn, leading up to the property, is always perfectly manicured and a great space for croquet.  Every September, a sight to see is the millions of daffodil nice place to seek some calm and peace.  My favorite space is the potager garden.  The property  grows much of their own organic produce for guests to enjoy.  They have an old root cellar for growing mushrooms.  They have chickens for fresh eggs and even raise a few pigs.  As I was there at the end of the season, much of the garden was being put to bed for winter but I can only imagine what it is like it full summer glory.

I could go on and on about how lovely Otahuna is, but it really is a place to experience for yourself.  It is a great place to spend 3-4 nights at the end of your trip to slow down and unwind before heading home or to start the trip and recuperate from jet lag.  It is a property in New Zealand I can’t wait to return to and enjoy.

Otahuna Lodge is a Virtuoso property and through our partnership, I am proud to offer the following amenities: upgrade on arrival, subject to availability; daily full breakfast, for up to two guests; a complimentary lunch or picnic with a bottle of New Zealand wine; and early check in/late check out, based on availability.