Our History

The original Lodge was built in 1991 by a group of local people from the Golden Bay area. They were enthusiastic to offer something special and unique to visitors coming to the region to explore the National Park. At that time, it was largely undiscovered as a tourist region.

From its humble beginnings, Awaroa Lodge has always been unique. The first building opened was a simple shed from which tea and fresh scones were served to hungry trampers walking the track.

The area was farmland with a few sheep and cows when the original lodge buildings were erected in 1991.

The furniture was all handcrafted and built  on site using natural materials.

In 2005, the lodge was extended to include the Harakeke room which is used for conferences and wedding receptions, 12 new superior suites and the restaurant couryard area. Designed by well known architect, Ian Athfield, he was thoroughly committed to environmental principals to ensure that the land was disturbed as little as possible and all building materials were carefully handled with little or no waste.

Since 2004, work has begun on restoring the wetland area alongside the lodge. Wetlands are nurseries for native species and important for bio diversity. The wetland area was originally swampy land choked with weeds. Now it has been cleared to allow the plant and animal life to thrive and prosper.