LUXSKI
Whare Kea Lodge and Chalet
Wanaka, New Zealand

Whare Kea Lodge and Chalet

Near Cardrona Alpine Resort6 roomsDistance to lifts not available to lifts
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Set on the shores of Lake Wanaka, Whare Kea Lodge and Chalet blends contemporary luxury with breathtaking alpine scenery. The lodge features elegant suites, gourmet cuisine, and personalized service, while the exclusive mountain chalet offers a secluded retreat for adventure and relaxation. Guests enjoy tailored experiences, from heli-skiing to lake activities, all in a tranquil, architecturally stunning setting.

Quick Facts

Amenities

  • Helipad
  • Direct lake access
  • Concierge service
  • Fully equipped kitchen
  • Private chef available
  • Billiards and games room
  • Piano and guitar for guest use
  • Outdoor hot tub
  • Large dining and lounge areas with guest bar and open fireplace
  • Outdoor seating areas
  • Outdoor chimenea
  • Gas BBQ
  • Ski storage and drying facilities
  • Ensuite bathrooms with under-floor heating
  • Walk-in showers

Dining Experience

• Private Chef Dining at Whare Kea Lodge – Gourmet, bespoke menus crafted by private chefs using fresh, locally sourced New Zealand ingredients, served in the elegant lodge dining room or alfresco with panoramic lake and mountain views. • Heli-Accessed Alpine Picnics and Chalet Dinners – Signature experience featuring chef-prepared cuisine at the remote Whare Kea Chalet on the Buchanan mountain range, accessible by helicopter for an unforgettable alpine dining adventure. • Curated Wine Pairings – Extensive selection of fine New Zealand wines expertly paired with each meal, enhancing the flavors of the region’s seasonal produce. • Seamless Access to Wanaka’s Culinary Scene – Personalized recommendations and arrangements for acclaimed local venues such as Kika (modern sharing plates), Bistro Gentil (French-inspired lakeside dining), and the historic Cardrona Hotel for après ski drinks and hearty fare.

Après Ski

Whare Kea Lodge and Chalet offers an exclusive alpine dining experience with gourmet meals prepared by private chefs, focusing on fresh, locally sourced New Zealand produce and fine wines. Guests enjoy bespoke menus in the elegant lodge dining room or alfresco on the terrace overlooking Lake Wanaka and the Southern Alps. The lodge’s signature experience includes heli-accessed mountain picnics and private dinners at the remote Whare Kea Chalet on the Buchanan mountain range, where guests can savor chef-prepared cuisine in a dramatic alpine setting. While the lodge itself is secluded, Wanaka’s vibrant dining scene is a short drive away, featuring acclaimed venues such as Kika for modern sharing plates, Bistro Gentil for French-inspired fare with lake views, and the lively Cardrona Hotel for classic après ski drinks and hearty pub meals. For a unique après ski experience, visit the Gin and Raspberry Bar for cocktails with panoramic lake vistas or enjoy local craft beers at Rhyme and Reason Brewery. Whare Kea Lodge’s personalized service ensures seamless access to both refined in-house dining and the best of Wanaka’s culinary and social offerings.

Spa & Wellness

This hotel does not have any spa or wellness facilities.

Ski Resort Guide

Staying at Whare Kea Lodge and Chalet in Wanaka, New Zealand, positions you perfectly for an exceptional ski holiday in the heart of the Southern Alps. This exclusive lakeside retreat offers easy access to some of the country’s most celebrated ski resorts, each with its own distinctive character and world-class amenities. - Treble Cone: Just a 30-minute drive from the lodge, Treble Cone is renowned for its expansive terrain, long runs, and breathtaking views over Lake Wanaka. It’s a favorite among advanced skiers and snowboarders, offering challenging off-piste areas and the largest skiable area in the South Island. Signature activities include heli-skiing and guided backcountry tours. The best time to visit is July to September, when snow conditions are at their peak. Insider tip: Arrive early to enjoy untouched morning powder and savor a coffee at the mountain café with panoramic vistas. - Cardrona Alpine Resort: Approximately 40 minutes from Whare Kea, Cardrona is ideal for families and mixed-ability groups. The resort features wide, groomed trails, excellent terrain parks, and a dedicated beginners’ area. Cardrona is also known for its vibrant après-ski scene, with on-mountain dining and regular live music events. For a unique experience, try night skiing or book a private lesson for personalized instruction. The season typically runs from mid-June to mid-October. - Snow Farm: For guests seeking a different alpine adventure, Snow Farm offers New Zealand’s premier cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails, just 35 minutes from Wanaka. Enjoy guided snowshoe hikes, dog sledding, and cozy overnight stays in backcountry huts. This is a wonderful option for families or those looking to explore the winter landscape at a gentler pace. Après-ski, Wanaka’s vibrant town center awaits with award-winning restaurants, boutique wineries, and local art galleries. Don’t miss a lakeside stroll at sunset or a private wine tasting featuring Central Otago pinot noir. International guests will appreciate the seamless transport options and English-speaking staff, while families benefit from excellent ski schools and childcare services. Advanced skiers should consider booking heli-skiing excursions for access to untouched powder and dramatic alpine scenery. Whare Kea Lodge and Chalet offers a refined base for exploring Wanaka’s premier ski destinations, ensuring a memorable and luxurious alpine escape tailored to your interests.

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