Winter Wonderland
Winter Wonderland
Work has progressed on the lodge over the past few weeks while we have continued to keep an eye on the sky and the weather report. We would have loved to have had the building weather tight now that we are officially in Winter. The majority of the work lately has been fixing tens of thousands of screws, nails, bolts and bracing brackets to withstand the extreme winds that can hit this area (designed for well over 200km/h). With two thirds of the roof in place and some of the ply around the outside we are getting it close to being protected from the weather but not close enough. Last week there was a large snowfall right through the Mackenzie Basin and the South Island including the site of Lakestone Lodge. There was so much snow that we were able to get in a bit of snowboarding on the site which was a great distraction. The temperatures are continuing to drop with weather at Lake Pukaki last night recorded at -20 degrees. It has been an education for us that it gets that cold in New Zealand so we are pretty thankful we have designed the lodge to maximise the winter sun – believe it or not it still makes an appearance and a big difference to internal temperature. Along with 2 large fires, underfloor heating, extra thick insulation and the best double glazing combined with some quad glazing it should make the lodge roasty toasty in winter (and cool in summer). I look forward to this time next year when we can update this blog from inside the lodge.
In the meantime work continues outside as Colin Hunter our builder, Mike and Nikki head out into the cold to carry on with the build. The weather is still -7 and its midday.
What our other guests had to say
The minute the gate opened and we drove up the Lakestone driveway, we instantly felt the stresses of work disappear. We couldn’t have chosen a better place to start our holiday. Our room was breathtaking. The Lodge itself ticks all the boxes. But the thing that stands out here is the...
WelshRhiWanaka
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
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
We had an incredible stay at Lakestone Lodge for our elopement in October! We were blown away by the thoughtful touches and attention to detail throughout our entire stay. Stunning rooms and views! Delicious food! We couldn't have asked for a better location and experience. Thank you so...
eprankin
We had the most amazing experience at Lakestone Lodge. We can’t find fault with anything! We highly rate the food, service, hospitality, comfort and attention to detail! We are truly lucky to have had the chance to stay here!
Nalini G
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
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