A contemporary country hotel located on a deer breeding farm in the South Island of New Zealand
Location: Hapuku Lodge + Tree Houses rests at the foot of the Seaward Kaikōura Range, just 12 km north of Kaikōura town and a short walk from the surf-hotspot Mangamaunu Bay. Perched between mountain and sea, it offers a peaceful base for marine adventures against a dramatic natural backdrop.
Rooms: Guests can choose from spacious lodge rooms and suites or one of five elevated Tree Houses nestled 10 m above the ground in a kanuka canopy. There’s also the Olive House Suite, perfect for families with room to relax and stretch out.
Amenities: Included are gourmet three-course dinners and full breakfasts, with ingredients lovingly grown on-site or sourced from local farms and fishers. The lodge also features a relaxed dining room, spa with Finnish sauna, and treatment rooms using locally inspired botanicals, as well as an outdoor pool and gym.
Activities: Kaikōura is a natural playground - plan for whale watching or marine safaris, sea kayak trips with dolphins or seals, scenic helicopter flights over mountains, or coastal hikes through native forest and waterfalls. Bikes are also available to explore the area at your own pace.
Sustainability: With roots in one of the world’s first Green Globe-certified towns, Hapuku is deeply eco-minded. The lodge champions solar-assisted heating, using composting and rainwater systems for the lodge. Inside is tastefully decorated with locally-inspired touches and using reclaimed timber. Hapuku even plants a native tree for every booking, with more than 15,000 planted to date.
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When to visit New Zealand
Find out the best time to visit New Zealand with our month by month guide.
- Best
- Good
- Mixed
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
January
Summer is in full swing, with warm temperatures across the country. North Island beaches are ideal for swimming and surfing, while the South Island is perfect for hiking and lake activities.
February
Still warm and sunny, February offers some of the year’s most settled weather, especially in the South Island. It’s prime time for hiking, kayaking, and wine touring in Marlborough. Slightly fewer crowds than January but still very busy in popular regions. Waitangi Day, New Zealand’s national day is celebrated on the 6th of February every year.
March
Temperatures remain pleasant, especially in the North Island, while the South begins to cool slightly. Autumn colours start appearing in Central Otago, making it ideal for photography and vineyard visits. A great month for outdoor adventures without peak-season crowds.
April
Autumn is in full display, with golden landscapes in the South Island. Mild days suit walking tracks and wine regions, while cooler evenings add a cosy feel. Fewer visitors mean better availability and rates.
May
Crisp, clear days mark the transition into winter. Snow begins to dust the mountains, while lowland areas remain great for hiking. It’s a quiet month with excellent off-season value.
June
Winter begins, with ski resorts in Queenstown and Wanaka opening. Mild in the far north, making it a good time for beach walks around the Bay of Islands. The South Island’s mountains offer stunning snowy scenery.
July
Peak ski season in the South Island, with excellent conditions on the slopes. Cooler weather prevails across the country, and many regions have a cosy, fireside atmosphere. Ideal for winter festivals in Queenstown.
August
Still prime skiing conditions, with late-season snow and fewer crowds than July. The far north remains relatively mild, and alpine towns enjoy a relaxed pace before spring.
September
Spring arrives, bringing blooming wildflowers and longer days. Ski fields may still operate early in the month, but hiking trails begin to reopen. A great time for wildlife spotting, especially in coastal areas. As the snow begins to melt, this can be a good time for white water rafting, although beware it will still be quite chilly.
October
Milder weather and fewer tourists make this a good month for road trips. Spring colours flourish, and outdoor activities pick up pace. Ideal for exploring both islands without peak-season costs.
November
Late Spring offers warm days and fresh greenery. It’s perfect for hiking, cycling, and exploring vineyards. Tourist numbers rise towards the end of the month, but it’s still less crowded than summer.
December
The start of summer brings long, sunny days and lively holiday celebrations. Beaches, hiking trails, and outdoor attractions are in full swing. Expect busy periods from mid-month as locals begin their summer holidays.
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Alistair
New Zealand Expert