Mahu Whenua

The healed earth

Between lake, mountains, verdant valleys, forests and rivers, the Mahu Whenua ecolodge is a unique project in New Zealand. Bought in 2005 by a visionary private owner, the property was rehabilitated into an ecological sanctuary after many years of intensive farming. It is a wildly successful gamble involving the reintroduction of endemic species, the eradication of invasive animal and plant species, and the implementation of eco-responsible and sustainable practices across 55,000 hectares overlooking Lake Wanaka! Mahu Whenua is home to just 5 suites, each individually decorated in a chic country style that is both retro and contemporary, opening onto literally breathtaking views of nature! Summer and winter alike, you can recharge your batteries and appreciate the region's natural wonders on foot, by mountain bike, on horseback, by 4x4 or even by helicopter. After a day rich in experiences, you can relax in the ecolodge's various areas: unwinding with a book in the library, relaxing during a massage or meditating during an open-air yoga session. Mahu Whenua's cuisine will complete your stay with creative menus made from local produce, paired with award-winning wines from the region's vineyards.

STYLE

An intimate and exclusive ecolodge, designed in a sober, chic and comfortable country style

SITUATION

On the South Island, a 25-minute drive from Wanaka or a 10-minute helicopter ride from Queenstown

CAPACITY

5 suites including 1 family suite in a breathtaking natural setting

HIGHLIGHTS

Mahu Whenua is New Zealand's largest private conservation project, covering 55,000 hectares of wild land

THE EXPERIENCES

  • Relaxation by the outdoor pool, treatments and massages at the Spa, Yoga and Pilates classes
  • Water sports on the lake, fly fishing and rod fishing
  • Via ferrata & hiking, mountain biking or horse riding
  • Ski, snowboard or heliskiing in winter
  • Guided tour of the estate and discovery of the local ecosystem
  • Exploring national parks by 4x4 or helicopter
  • Vineyard tours and wine tastings
  • Mountain picnic
  • Private photography lessons

THE EXTRAORDINARY

The Mahu Whenua ecolodge offers the opportunity to hire the entire lodge exclusively for up to 12 people, a wonderful chance to get together with family or friends for a break surrounded by nature and in complete privacy. You will then have 55,000 hectares of private land entirely to yourselves to explore on foot, on horseback, on two wheels or from the air!

ETHICS

Mahu Whenua means «healing the land». Since acquiring the estate in 2005, the owner's goal has been to regenerate this land, which was long damaged by intensive farming. Whilst implementing new sustainable agricultural practices, Mahu Whenua has also embarked on a flora restoration and endemic bird conservation programme. Lodge guests are invited to take part in the life of this eco-sanctuary.