Wilderness Lodge Lake Moeraki

Anne Saunders and Dr Gerry McSweeney have created something very special at Wilderness Lodge Moeraki Lake. On our first evening a guide took us on an early evening nature walk. He mumbled his name and introduced himself saying Im just someone they get in to do these talks. He then proceeded to demonstrate consummate knowledge of every plant and tree we came across. The following day we had another walk through the forest and then were led in kayaks down the estuary to the sea. Jacinda Amey guided this expertly too. It was she who confirmed that the previous day we had been guided by Gerry the co-founder and one of New Zealands foremost environmentalists! That evenings walk to see glow worms also turned out to be a most spectacular sighting of stars. The night sky was brought to life by Gerrys in-depth understanding of galaxies, planets, and the occasional satellite. Meanwhile back at base Anne runs a tight ship with the same self-deprecating charm. The restaurant service was excellent and our room immaculate. We loved number 3 as it has a good view of the garden and water beyond. I got into conversation with Anne about the architecture of the Lodge. She explained how it had evolved since its days as road-builders temporary housing. The centre section with the lower floor is original and used to be the scene of illegal after-hours drinking. Conserving it within the successive extensions adds non-linear personality. I suggested an analogy with the organic nature of Frank Lloyd Wrights work, and how much more character such buildings have compared to Corbusier-style glass boxes. Anne smiled and told me the architect of both Lake Moeraki and Arthurs Pass was a follower of Lloyd Wright! I recommend Lake Moeraki highly, and especially their guided tours.
Mar 19th, 2023

Mar 8th, 2023

Feb 11th, 2023

We made a last-minute itinerary change when we learned about this lodge, and were very glad we did! Excellent food, very nice rooms, and nature served up with expertise! Our stay was too short but we still enjoyed every one of the walks on the premises and learned so much about the flora and fauna... especially the hand fed GIANT EELS. It was gratifying to see their mission of nature preservation and appreciation at work.
Jan 6th, 2023

Dec 29th, 2022