Otahuna Lodge

Tai Tapu, New Zealand

Prime historic gem

Set in pastoral surroundings against the fluted cone of an ancient volcano, Otahuna Lodge is a beguiling Victorian mansion that offers its guests a unique sense of wonder and discovery.

New Zealand’s largest private historic residence, Otahuna has been revitalised with luxury accommodation, glorious gardens and sophisticated cuisine.  In its patrician sense of calm, the grace and charm of its grounds and its refined yet personable service, Otahuna combines the romance of the past with the cosmopolitan pleasures of the present – the very best of both worlds.

Each of Otahuna’s seven suites is an enclave of refined comfort.  Here, the classical ambience created by ornate fireplaces, carved inglenooks and flowers freshly picked from the Estate has been enhanced with luxurious fabrics and lavish bathrooms.

Whether you wish to sail in an extinct volcanic harbour, take in the panoramas from one of the world’s greatest train journeys or charter a helicopter from Otahuna’s Great Lawn into the jaw-dropping scenery of the Southern Alps, there are numerous options to immerse yourself in the sights, sounds and flavours of this stunning area.

 

 

You will love

  • Jaw-dropping scenery
  • 120-year old gardens
  • Unspoiled Queen Anne architecture
  • Amazing array of experiences
  • A stones throw from Queenstown

 

Otahuna Lodge exterior featuring Queen Anne architecture, landscaped gardens, and scenic backdrop, reflecting luxury accommodation near Christchurch, New Zealand.
Luxurious Otahuna Lodge suite featuring elegant furnishings, a cozy fireplace, and scenic views, highlighting 19th-century architecture and refined comfort.
Dining table at Otahuna Lodge adorned with vibrant pink tulips, elegant tableware, and a warm wooden setting, highlighting the lodge's sophisticated cuisine and refined ambiance.
Verandah of Otahuna Lodge featuring elegant white architecture, comfortable seating, and lush greenery, showcasing the luxurious outdoor ambiance of this historic residence in New Zealand.
Chef demonstrating culinary techniques during a cooking lesson at Otahuna Lodge, featuring a modern kitchen and attentive participants.
Elegant drawing room at Otahuna Lodge featuring ornate wooden architecture, a cozy fireplace, plush seating, and fresh floral arrangements, reflecting luxury accommodation and refined comfort.
Chef pouring rosé wine into glasses at an elegant outdoor dining table surrounded by lush greenery at Otahuna Lodge, showcasing luxurious dining experiences in a serene garden setting.
Vineyard rows stretching across rolling hills under a clear blue sky, showcasing the scenic landscape surrounding Otahuna Lodge in New Zealand's South Island.
Person fly fishing in a serene river setting, surrounded by lush greenery, showcasing outdoor experiences near Otahuna Lodge in New Zealand.
Scenic view of Otahuna Lodge's golf course, showcasing lush green landscapes, a winding river, and snow-capped mountains in the background, highlighting New Zealand's breathtaking natural beauty.
Otahuna Lodge surrounded by vibrant yellow daffodils and lush gardens, showcasing historic Queen Anne architecture against a scenic backdrop.
Helicopter flying over Otahuna Lodge's lush gardens and manicured lawns, showcasing the stunning landscape and historic architecture of New Zealand's luxury accommodation.
Lush garden pathways with manicured hedges and vibrant foliage at Otahuna Lodge, showcasing the serene beauty of its historic grounds.
Gardener harvesting fresh produce in Otahuna's lush greenhouse, surrounded by vibrant plants and vegetables, showcasing the estate's commitment to luxury and sustainability.
Otahuna Lodge surrounded by lush gardens and misty hills, showcasing elegant Queen Anne architecture in a serene autumn setting.
Cyclists navigating a scenic trail in the Port Hills near Otahuna Lodge, surrounded by lush greenery and mountainous landscapes under a clear blue sky.
Team of chefs and staff at Otahuna Lodge, gathered outdoors under large trees, showcasing culinary expertise and hospitality in a picturesque setting.
Otahuna Lodge, historic luxury accommodation in New Zealand, showcasing Queen Anne architecture, surrounded by lush gardens and scenic views.

Thank you for putting together the ancestral adventure of a lifetime. I cannot speak highly enough of the trip. The transfers went smoothly, the accommodation was excellent, the drivers were amazing as they manoeuvred through the traffic and every tour guide had a great deal of knowledge and information. Nothing was too much trouble for them. The contrast of poverty and riches of the country was striking, from the beggars in the street and struggles of the poor to the spectacular, impressive sights of the forts and monuments. There were so many highlights. A moment in time that will never happen again.

Jenny Kidd

Exellent and wonderful, reaching way above expectations.

Elizabeth Mackintosh

We wanted the opportunity to see as many wildlife parks as possible and the Classic Safari Company provided an action-packed itinerary that included six, with 11 tiger sightings and nine leopard. This was overlaid with an introduction to Jaisalmer, Jaipur and the 'real' India. Pench and Panna were the hidden gems of a really great trip, very well organised, seamless and enjoyable. As a solo traveller I felt incredibly safe at all times. I want to go back!

Mark Taylor

Julia you did a fantastic job - everything was first class. Well organised, efficient and stress free. We all agreed it was the best holiday we've ever had. Cant wait to travel with CSC again.

Milford family

We are so happy we put our trust in CSC, we had an amazing adventure and would recommend them to anyone.

Kim & Brad Balance

The trip exceeded my expectations and was the best family holiday I have ever had. Our children simply loved it and now I know more about African wildlife than they do about our own farm animals.

Rowntree family

Classic Safari are the people who genuinely know other culture and offer incredible insight to perfectly meet your expectations.

Melanie McMillan & Iain Jones

We loved it all. Our son wants to go back tomorrow. We would ALL go back again!

Laurence & Remi Cunningham

An amazing experience - the best family holiday we have ever had. We were extremely impressed by the meticulous attention to our itinerary. I can't speak highly enough of all the elements of this exciting journey!

Sheryl & Robert Taylor

Thank you for making our trip to Africa so spectacular. The attention to detail really made it special. It really was the trip of a lifetime.

Paul Cozzi

Very knowledgeable and patient. Our trip was all that we hoped for. Wonderful!

Jane & Robert Happell

Everything was perfect! Advice and information on destinations and activities hit everything I had hoped to experience. I contacted the Classic Safari Company upon recommendation and have now, in turn, recommended to others.

Tim Bradley

You can't improve on perfection. I had my best birthday and holiday with my family celebrating my 80th birthday in Africa. Everything that Julia organised was perfect and the whole trip was a highlight!

Buckingham Family

The trip of a lifetime, couldn't have dreamt of a better adventure if I tried.

Emma Jeffcoat

Absolutely everything was first class & so well organised.

Simon & Jackie Adams

Classic Safari Company has done it again! A unique experience that ticked all the boxes - wildlife, culture and dining experience. A dream come true!

Ros Wheeler

Their experience and knowledge of Africa is evident and we couldn't have been happier with the total package. This has given us a taste for Africa - now we are ready for more.

Andrew & Pip Stevens

If you want the most sensational experience in Africa let Julia and the staff at Classic Safari Co plan it for you! Their knowledge, expertise and enthusiasm for their job means your every wish will be fulfilled.

Miriam & Joseph Harrison

Classic Safari is the place to go to for "top end" adventure travel.

Ron & Alison Guthrie

Classic Safari Company were brilliant - 10/10

Di & Kingsley Yates

The Classic Safari Company is the best I have dealt with. Extremely knowledgeable & professional, friendly, patient & understanding of first timers to Africa.

Annette Whiley

It certainly was the best trip we have EVER had. The experiences were mind blowing.  We want everyone we know to experience Africa - the animals, the people - magical.

Jo-anne & Dean Mifsud

Would do it all again and not change a moment. Best holiday ever!

The McGowan Tribe

An absolutely fantastic travel company - every one of the many trips they have organised for us over 22 years have been faultless and fabulous.

Judith & Roger Williams

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