General Information
What time is check-in and check-out?
Check-in is from 2.00 pm and check-out is 10am. If you need an early departure or late check-out, please arrange this at Reception.
Is the lodge open year-round?
Wilderness Lodge Lake Moeraki operates from October to May, closing for the winter months (June – September).
Dining & Bar
What meals are included?
Rates include breakfast and dinner in the Riverside Restaurant. Picnic or restaurant lunches are available at an additional charge.
Meal times:
Breakfast: 7.30 am – 9.30 am
Lunch: 12.00 pm – 2.00 pm (by arrangement)
Dinner: 7.00 pm – 9.00 pm
Do you cater for dietary needs?
Absolutely—please advise us in advance of any special requirements so our chefs can prepare accordingly.
Can we bring our own alcohol?
Sorry, BYO is not permitted. Our bar offers a wide selection of New Zealand wines, craft beers and local spirits.
Rooms & Facilities
Do rooms have TVs?
No—our focus is on connecting with nature. Rooms are equipped with phones for internal and external calls.
Is there a guest laundry?
Yes. Complimentary washing machines, dryers and detergent are provided near Rooms 1–4.
A boot and coat drying room is next door.
Do you have air conditioning or heating?
Rooms are cosy and well-insulated with heating for cooler months.
Is there daily housekeeping?
Yes, if requested. Please use the signs provided in your rooms.
Is smoking allowed?
No, we are a non-smoking lodge. You may smoke outside away from entrances and windows.
Do you have Wi-Fi?
Yes, we have complimentary Wi-Fi. The password is located in your guest arrival folder.
Activities & Nature Experiences
What can I do at Lake Moeraki?
Join our guided rainforest walks, kayak on the lake and river, fish for brown trout, or take a trip to see the rare tawaki (Fiordland crested penguin). You can also relax in the guest lounge and watch the river flow by.
Do we need to book activities?
We offer one complimentary activity in the evening before dinner; longer excursions can be booked at Reception.
Is kayaking safe for beginners?
Yes—our stable minnow kayaks are ideal for first-timers. Life jackets are required and provided.
Can we fish at Lake Moeraki?
Yes, brown trout fishing is excellent but a valid license is required. Equipment hire is available at the lodge.
When is penguin season?
From August to late November, you can often see tawaki penguins nesting along the nearby beaches.
Sustainability & Environment
Do you generate your own power?
Yes. We are 100% off-grid and generate all our own power.
Can I drink the tap water?
Yes—our water is triple filtered (sand, micro and UV) and safe to drink.
Do you recycle?
We operate a comprehensive waste management programme—food waste feeds our pigs, organic waste is composted and glass, paper, and plastics are recycled.
How can guests help with conservation?
Use the recycling centre in the laundry, limit towel and linen use, and respect wildlife during walks. Your stay supports penguin protection and forest restoration.
Wildlife & Local Tips
What should I know about sandflies?
They’re common near beaches and rivers. Wear long sleeves, light colours, and use repellent to avoid bites.
Are there dangerous animals?
No—New Zealand has no dangerous wildlife or snakes.
Can I drink the lake water?
No, please use tap water instead for safety reasons.
Weather & Getting Here
What’s the weather like?
Rain is common but it creates the lush rainforest. Average rainfall is around 4 metres annually, often overnight so you can still enjoy plenty of sunshine.
How do I get there?
We are a 30-minute drive north of Haast or 90 minutes south of Fox Glacier on State Highway 6. Free parking is available on site.
Emergencies
Who do I contact in an emergency?
Dial 1-111 for emergency services or 0 for lodge assistance. Nearest medical care: Haast Police (03 750 0850), Wanaka Medical Centre (03 443 0710).
