Fleewinter

Ratanui Lodge is a hidden gem in Pohara at the quieter, northern end of Abel Tasman National Park. The Lodge is just a hop over the road to the beach and a 10-minute drive along the coast to the fringes of the National Park.

There are 10 rooms, each with their own individual, but classical style. One is a luxury room with a giant king-sized bed, an additional seating area and a bathroom with twin sinks and a large walk-in shower. The other rooms are slightly smaller (but still an excellent size); have king, queen or twin beds and either a walk-in shower or shower over a bath. All rooms are on the ground floor.

At the heart of the lodge is the dining room, lounge with fireplace and breakfast room. Continental breakfast is included in the room price and served round a large communal table each morning. Guests are usually returning from or heading into Abel Tasman National Park so this is a good opportunity to share tips and experiences. If you can’t function without your bacon and eggs in the morning a cooked option is available at an extra charge.

Each evening, a set three-course meal is served in the dining room. This changes on a nightly basis and is always raved about by guests. Local wines from the Nelson area and beer brewed in Golden Bay complement the delicious locally sourced food. In the summer, linger outside with a cocktail in the late afternoon sun or, in chillier months; curl up next to the fire.

Plan on staying a few days here, this is a destination not a stopover. Pete and Steve are full of knowledge on what to do in the local area but highlights are definitely a full day trip (or longer) into Abel Tasman National Park, either on foot or by kayak.