Rooms & Suites: 25
Consistently amongst the award-winners of the Top Hotels of the World, Huka Lodge is surrounded by magnificent natural beauty.
The names in the guest book are as grand as they come - Queen Elizabeth II, Ronald Reagan, politicians, tycoons and Hollywood stars. Huka Lodge, 300 meters up stream from the famous Huka Falls, started as a simple fishing lodge on the banks of the Waikato River some 60 years ago, attracting anglers from around the world. Today, the now-luxurious lodge lures anyone seeking one of the world's very best retreats. Set within seven hectares of park-like grounds, Huka Lodge has 20 guest suites - each set privately in native bush, only meters from the river. The bedrooms are spacious and include a separate dressing room and bathroom. In the evening guests gather in the main Lodge Room warmed by blazing fires. With its matchless hospitality and setting, Huka Lodge is simply one of the most cherished retreats. Sunset on Lake Taupo is magnificent and best admired from an area known as the Western Bays. A barbecue on the beach can bring a day on the lake to a fitting conclusion - the stars are clearer than you can ever remember, the deep quiet only punctuated by the gentle lapping of the water.
Relais & Chateaux, Virtuoso, Amex Fine Hotels & Resorts, Andrew Harper Recommended
Adventure/Eco/Nature, Romantic Getaway
Who has stayed here? The better question is who hasn't stayed at this remote fly-fishing mecca: Queen Elizabeth, Bill Gates, Robin Williams, Diana Ross, Miucca Prada, and droves of other celebrities have cast their reel into Lake Taupo.
Taupo Airport (TUO)
9 miles
November through April
