Dine

Dining at Huka Lodge is at the heart of the tradition of generous hospitality for which the lodge is world-renowned. Showcasing New Zealand’s finest, often sustainably produced ingredients, the menus at Huka Lodge are daily changing and reflect the seasons and the environment outdoors. Meals are enjoyed in the elegant surrounds of the Dining Room with mesmerising views to the Waikato River.

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Breakfast

A hearty country-style breakfast set up in the main lodge at Huka is a wonderful start to the day, whether it’s planned as full of adventures or for relaxing in the gardens by the Waikato River. Guests can look forward to fresh eggs, free range bacon and local tomatoes, mushrooms and greens, along with fresh juices, steaming pots of loose-leaf tea and espresso coffee.

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Lunch

A light à la carte lunch menu is available for guests and may be enjoyed fireside in the main lodge or on the sun-drenched terrace overlooking the gardens and Waikato River. Local organic and free-range produce including chicken and beef are complemented by fresh greens, lodge baked bread and fine wines.

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Dinner

Dinner starts with a relaxed drink in the lounge, and proceeds to a finely balanced menu bringing fresh local and regional flavours to the plate. Highlights include beef and lamb from the rolling North Island fields, Tora Crayfish and Mount Cook Alpine Salmon, complemented by native ingredients such as peppery kawakawa and pāua served as an amuse bouche in its kaleidoscopic shell.

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A toast to Taupō

Begin the day with an espresso or pot of expertly brewed leaf tea, or enjoy fresh drinking water drawn from the Waikato River. As the day progresses, world class wines, premium spirits and local beers are on offer, and as the dusk draws in and fires are lit French Champagne or a fine whiskey are enjoyed in traditional lodging style.  

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Bar selection

The bar at Huka Lodge is stocked with premium spirits – many of them locally distilled small-batch labels – perfect for the base of a range of cocktails and mixed drinks. A fresh gin and tonic marks the start of an enjoyable evening, while a fine scotch served over ice may be best enjoyed fireside.

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Wine cellar

A vast underground labyrinth housing some 4,500 bottles of wine, the Wine Cellar at Huka Lodge is an attraction in itself, prompting some dedicated time to peruse its collection of fine vintages. The wine cellar is also a wonderful venue for private or special occasion dinners for two or up to ten guests.

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Digestifs

After a delicately balanced dinner, many guests retire to the bar or lounge to enjoy a digestif or nightcap. The friendly team at the bar is always ready to help with a drink, with a selection of premium liqueurs, spirits and hot beverages available.

Our Chef

Executive Chef Ryan Ward brings over 20 years of culinary expertise to Huka Lodge, having previously led the culinary team at Longitude 131° and held prestigious Head Chef positions at luxury resorts in Fiji and Brisbane’s Gallery of Modern Art. His culinary prowess earned him two hat statuses for three consecutive years. Drawn by the abundance of premium local produce in the region, Ryan joined Huka Lodge, curating daily changing menus that showcase the finest flavours and ingredients available.

With his wife Bridie Bush as Assistant Lodge Manager, they create a harmonious presence at Huka Lodge, offering culinary artistry and impeccable service. Ryan’s leadership extends beyond the kitchen, fostering a collaborative and inspiring environment for the culinary team to reach their full potential. Under his guidance, Huka Lodge continues its reputation as a world-class culinary destination, where innovation, exceptional flavours, and warm hospitality combine to create unforgettable dining experiences.

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Destination

Taupō Seasons

Taupō's seasons offer reason to visit year-round. Summer brings long warm days and mild nights – perfect for outdoor adventures – while the cooler seasons offer snow sports and time for red wines and crackling open fires.

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Experience

Unforgettable Encounters

With easy access to both lodge-based activities and the range of adventures on offer around Taupō, guests at Huka Lodge can choose to try fly fishing, whitewater rafting, sky diving, tennis, yoga and pétanque.

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Lodge

Our Luxury

A stay at Huka Lodge is refined and relaxed, with the intimate main lodge and guest suites providing luxurious interiors and opening on to verdant gardens and the deep turquoise Waikato River.

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