Our Kaupapa
Wharekawa Lodge is a relaxing, quaint and wonderfully sited accommodation facility located beside the Wharekawa Harbour, at Opoutere, just ten minutes north of Whangamata. Previously the Opoutere YHA, Wharekawa Lodge now provides accommodation over the summer holiday months (and other times with prior approval) while running as an adventure education facility for local schools during the remainder of the year. Our local, friendly custodians will ensure your stay is one to remember!
The space
The lodge is in a prime location with the most amazing views out over the harbour, the beach forest and the sand spit. The beautiful Opoutere Beach is a ten minute walk away through the pine forest – its 5km length perfect for uncrowded adventure including surfing, swimming, fishing and exploring.
Surrounded by mature native forest and majestic redwood trees the Wharekawa Lodge is a great spot for birdwatching. Home to a colony of kaka parrots, their unique whistles and squawks compete with the comical chatter from the resident grey herons. Another treat for guests is an after-dinner glow worm walk, just around the corner.
The site is steeped in local history having served as the grounds for the Opoutere Native School during the early 1900’s. The original teacher’s house still stands, now housing the kitchen, lounge and some of the bunk rooms.
A large open plan bunk room occupies what used to be the old school house, it has a log burner to keep visitors toasty in the cooler months.
Travellers come from around the world to stay at the Wharekawa Lodge and they often make repeat pilgrimages back to the area - you never know who you’ll be sharing the BBQ with!
Communal kitchen and bathroom facilities are kept spotless by the friendly custodians.
Come, relax and stay a few days at one of the jewels of Coromandel’s Paradise Coast.
