Lakestone build 6.0
Almost Enclosed
Last week the windows and doors started to turn up at Lakestone Lodge and it all got very exciting. With the ply now surrounding the building, it would have been great to see everything enclosed a bit earlier but a combination of the weather, constantly changing our minds and the consent process all meant that it was not to be. It is now the start of August and a long winter has been predicted so we will still have plenty of time to enjoy the benefits of an enclosed building.
Last Friday was the day it all happened with regards to the windows and it proved to be a pretty big effort getting the doors into place. I think my arms grew about an inch from the weight of carrying them – at least there was no reason to go to the gym that day. It took pretty much a full day to get the doors into place (most of the windows having been done a few days earlier) and there was a huge sense of satisfaction at seeing them in place – it makes a dramatic difference to the building and is progress that you can see. Looking in from in front of the lodge now creates the illusion that we are surrounded by the mountains as they are reflected back in the windows.
While there are still a small number of windows and doors to go we are looking forward to being able to work inside unhindered by the external elements. I spent some of Friday inside painting the soffits with the sun streaming in through the glass which was much more pleasant than battling the elements outside on a bad day.
As well as the windows going in, the roof is now 90% finished apart from one exposed truss which has proven to be a bit of a challenge but that is on the cards for this week.
The roof has been a difficult one as the weather needs to be warm enough for there to be no frost on the roof but it can’t be raining as neither of these conditions are safe for the roofing team. Just to make things even more difficult it must also be perfectly still conditions so a few attempts were made before we managed to pick the right day to get things moving. The roof is a relatively steep one with a 40 degree pitch to allow room for attic space as well as be close to the ideal angle for solar panels to receive maximum sunlight in our location. Since we are planning on mounting 32 x250watt solar panels on the roof we definitely want to get the most out of them as they are what will provide the power for the lodge.
What our other guests had to say
Excellent dinner date at this exceptional lodge, panoramic views over Lake Pukaki and Aoraki Mt Cook. Our meal was Michelin Star standard and served by lovely locals. Ideal location for a romantic weekend or overnight stay. Couldn't fault our experience. The food certainly was a very...
Highlander65
From the moment we arrived till the follow up visit to pick up our bikes that had graciously been looked after while we shot up to Christchurch, the service and hospitality was amazing. Mike met us and with his staff quietly looked after our every need. Food was delicious and very well...
Craig L
This small lodge has excellent and very helpful staff. the rooms are good and the food is excellent. However the crowning glory for my wife and I was the magnificent view along the lake with Aoraki Mount Cook central to the view surrounded by other snow covered mountains in the Southern Alps.
Peterm2014123, Auckland Central, New Zealand
A group of tired cyclists arrive wet and cold. We are met by a very charming host, Mike, and shown to our lovely rooms, with beautiful views over turquoise Lake Pukaki. A rabbit runs by, pursued by a cat. There is tea and coffee, cupcakes, biscotti and fruit. Cocktails in the lounge are followed...
AucklandTraveller, Christchurch, New Zealand
We stayed for two nights at Lakestone Lodge on the Cosy Couples package. The location is stunning, room very comfortable with incredible views, the food was outstanding and the massage was one of the best I've ever had. Even though our stay was only for two nights, we felt the stresses of...
Debbie - NZ
A stay at Lakestone Lodge was our reward for the grind of 2020. The accommodation and food were superb, and the hosts were friendly, attentive and well informed. The star of the show is the location – the lodge discreetly tucked away on a ridge above the road, away from other travellers...
David G
Had a wonderful stay here, we were all well looked after from the moment we arrived. Hospitality is incredible, Izzy is lovely and warm natured. The private rooms look out onto Mt Cook and Lake Pukaki! Food is Devine. Thoroughly enjoyed our stay.
Colleen
We have stayed here a few times now, and it still exceeds expectations each time. The location of course is one of the most special places in all of NZ. The quality of the rooms and little design touches are special highlights. And then to top it all the welcoming and friendly service...
Andy R