Full Description
Just 15 minutes from Rotorua you’ll find a superb boutique Maori luxury lodge on the edge of stunning Lake Tarawera. Pounamu (Pronounced Po-naa-moo) Lodge is nestled in pristine native forest with panoramic views over the lake to sacred Mount Tarawera.
We invite you to our place – to taste fresh, seasonal cuisine infused with Maori herbs flourishing in our garden; to experience a wide range of activities – private Maori cultural performances, trout fishing, guided walks and lake cruises.
Pounamu Lodge is named after the sacred greenstone of the Maori people of New Zealand. Pounamu is revered for its beauty and regarded with respect and pride. We apply these same principles when looking after our guests. We call it “Manaakitanga” – the ultimate in hosting and care for people. Pounamu Lodge has been designed around its cultural environment – Maori-inspired architecture and artworks provide a setting where you can totally relax and enjoy our cultural heritage and stories.
Comfort, quality, an exclusive environment and Maori cultural heritage are our gifts to you. "Naumai haeremai ki te turangawaewae o Tuhourangi" Welcome to the standing place of Tuhourangi. "Naumai haeremai ki aku wa kainga" Welcome to our place.
When you stay at Pounamu Lodge, Karen & David offer you:
- Accommodation that compliments the stunning lake and mountain views
- Total privacy and exclusive single party occupancy
- A family-friendly stay for a maximum of 4 guests
- Full gourmet breakfasts – continental style plus selection of cooked choices. (We also cater for vegetarians and those with gluten or dairy allergies).
Organic Meals
Memorable home-cooked dinners infused with kai Maori accompanied by fine New Zealand wines.
Flavorsome and healthy dishes are our specialty at the Lodge.We use the freshest locally grown produce and where infusions of our traditional Maori herbs all complemented by an array of our finest New Zealand wines.
Every day Karen decides what will be cooked for you for your breakfast to ensure only the freshest and the very best is served. Lunch may be enjoyed at the lodge, or equally from a hamper made up for you, to take on your excursion. Dinner is prepared by arrangement and is shared with family and friends complemented by New Zealand’s fine wine and beer.
Special dietary requirements need to be advised in advance.
Karen is happy to share any of her ‘tried and true’ recipes like smoked trout pate or kawakawa bread.
Facilities
The Lodge accommodates a maximum of 4 guests in 2 designer suites located on a separate level of the lodge to ensure your peace and total privacy. The Koru suite features a king sized bed with Manu suite providing king size bed or twin share. Both have ensuites, reading areas and service bay for that coffee, snack or quiet drink.
Total Capacity
4 guests in 2 designer suites.
Activities
Local Activities
> Hot Water Springs
> Swimming, boating and kayaking
> Fly Fishing Tutorials, Fly fishing
> Sightseeing and Nature Walks
> Picnic Areas
> Lake Tarawera Falls Walk
> Waimangu Valley Walk via the Rotomahana Isthmus Track
> Boat Charters
Cultural Connection
> Maori Food Trail
> Private Cultural Performances
> Natural Spa Massage
> Cultural Guided Tours
> Whakarewarewa Thermal Living Village
Directions
Driving instructions to Pounamu Lodge
If you are travelling from Auckland continue along Amohau Street:
* Proceed straight through the Fenton Street intersection continuing to the first roundabout at Tarawera Road
* Turn right at the roundabout
* Pounamu Lodge is 15km from the roundabout
* Drive past The Blue Lake, The Green Lake and The Buried Village (11kms from the roundabout)
* One km further on drive straight ahead onto Spencer Road 51 Spencer Road is better accessed coming from Boatshed Bay at Kariri Point.
* So continue your drive down the hill until you come to Boatshed Bay
* Turn around and come back up the hill until you get to 51 Spencer Road. Pounamu Lodge, 51 Spencer Road is clearly marked on the signage.
If you are travelling from Taupo:
* At first Roundabout - turn right into Sala Street
* At first set of light - turn right into Te Ngae Road continue until you come to the first roundabout Tarawera Road
* Turn right at the roundabout
* Pounamu Lodge is 15km from the roundabout
* Drive past The Blue Lake, The Green Lake and The Buried Village (11kms from the roundabout)
* One km further on drive straight ahead onto Spencer Road 51 Spencer Road is better accessed coming from Boatshed Bay at Kariri Point.
* So continue your drive down the hill until you come to Boatshed Bay
* Turn around and come back up the hill until you get to 51 Spencer Road.
Pounamu Lodge, 51 Spencer Road is clearly marked on the signage.
Please wait