The architecturally stunning wilderness lodge sets the bar high for New Zealand stays.

For lovers of remote, nature-based luxury, it doesn’t get much better than The Lindis Lodge. One of the country’s best stays, it was awarded two Michelin Keys in October last year. The luxury lodge that’s positioned in northern Otago joins a select few properties across New Zealand to receive the prestigious guide’s second-highest honour, acknowledging exceptional stays.

Nestled in the heart of an alpine valley on the edge of a dark sky reserve, for discerning travellers with an appetite for adventure and gourmet offerings, The Lindis Lodge blends outdoors and indoors perfectly.

But what’s it like to stay at the Lindis Group’s flagship property? I checked in to find out.

Location

A 2-hour drive north from Queenstown on New Zealand’s South Island, The Lindis Lodge remotely rests within northern Otago’s Ahuriri Valley. To get here, my chauffeur has driven through stunning scenery including Lindis Pass – the winding high country highway after which the lodge is named.

Turning off the main road at a ‘secret marker’, we intrepidly follow an unsealed track for a further 15 kilometres. With the lodge also sitting on Ben Avon Station, we pass many merino sheep before arriving at the lodge’s front gates.

Calling ahead, my driver informs staff of our arrival so that as soon as I step from the car, I’m greeted by the manager herself. With my bags promptly whisked away, I’m handed a glass of champagne and invited inside for a check-in that feels effortless.

Style and character

With its award-winning design by Wellington-based firm, Architecture Workshop, The Lindis Lodge blends seamlessly into the landscape, with its rolling rooftop copying colours and contours of the countryside.

Stepping inside, the lodge’s Great Hall is elegant, modern and warm, with Spotted Gum wood panelling, Bluestone masonry, and bespoke furniture and art. With a wave-like ceiling connecting the main dining and lounge areas, I feel like I’m at an art gallery, staring at a landscape painting with the way floor-to-ceiling windows frame the stillness of the valley below.

Rooms and suites

Modern elegance continues across The Lindis Lodge’s five Suites located within the main lodge, and three stand-alone glass Pods.

While the two Master Suites and three Lodge Suites both come with super king beds, ensuites with bathtubs, and indoor and outdoor seating areas. The Master Suites are more generous, offering multiple vantage points over the valley.

I’m staying in one of the new glass pods. Cleverly positioned within walking distance of the main lodge yet hidden from view, I discover these secluded glass structures offer the ultimate immersive experience, with uninterrupted views to snow-capped peaks during the day and starry skies at night. The pod’s complete privacy is something I also enjoy, with a luxurious sunset soak in my very own outdoor hot tub.

All accommodation types come with a complimentary mini bar stocked with drinks and local produce, plus wi-fi and streaming services.

Facilities

Within the Great Hall, there’s shared access to the main dining area, lounge spaces, an intimate bar, and games lounge where there’s a pool table, board games, and television.

While the lodge’s outdoor trails provide plenty of exercise, there’s also a fully equipped gym on site. The outdoor hot tub will ease muscle tension afterwards – as will the lodge’s spa where massage treatments can be booked at an additional cost.

Activities

Alpine activities are a highlight at The Lindis Lodge. For the ultra-luxurious kind – such as heli-hiking in the Southern Alps, or a private ski trip to Mount Cook – Beyond the Valley excursions can be arranged, while experiences like hill walking, fly fishing, horse trekking and archery are right on the lodge’s doorstep.

I choose the 4WD Valley Tour with activities manager, Andrew Cousins, who explains the history and ecology of the glacier-formed valley. Spotting wildlife as we go, we venture over golden tussock ground and visit areas including beech forest, wetlands and a naturally formed ‘amphitheatre’ carved into the side of clay cliffs.

Feeling inspired after learning that battle scenes from the 2020 movie, Mulan, were also filmed here, I spend the rest of my second morning learning archery skills with Andrew. Call it beginner’s luck, but my Mongolian arrow lands a perfect bullseye on my very last attempt.

In the afternoon I saddle up at The Lindis Lodge’s stables and enjoy a guided horse trek along the base of the hillside to private dining venue, the ‘Black Diamond’, for Champagne and a cheese platter.

Bordering the Aoraki Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve, The Lindis Lodge also offers expert star gazing sessions at night.

Dining

Awarded Luxury Lodge Chefs of the Year at Cuisine Good Food Awards 2025,

The Lindis Lodge’s executive chef, Daniel Fraser and head chef, Guillaume Laurent have been recognised for their authentic dining experiences that reflect the local landscape.

It’s an accolade that’s proven perfectly on my first evening. Arriving at the start of winter, I’m just in time for a preview of Dining in the Dark – a dimly lit degustation that’s part of the lodge’s Under the Stars winter package and inspired by the valley’s night sky.

Starting with mulled wine by the fire, we move by torchlight to our table by the window where the stars are the main attraction. Paired with premium New Zealand wines – including those from The Lindis Group’s vineyards, Clos Ostler and Paroa Bay – refined dishes like Fjordland Crayfish, and Beef Cheeks Raviolo, are followed by desserts such as a contemporary take on s’mores.

On my second night I return for another menu championing local farmers and fishers – where dishes like paua and prawn dumplings are matched with albariño, and Canter Valley duck breast is paired with pinot noir.

Guests can also book immersive private dining experiences like Alpine Picnics, the Black Diamond BBQ Lunch, or High-Country Caviar & Champagne.

Accessibility

The Lindis Lodge can accommodate guests with mobility requirements, with the most suitable accommodation being suites within the main lodge.

Reservations and lodge teams work with guests with special needs prior to arrival to tailor transfers, accommodation, dining and activities, though the lodge’s remote alpine setting and architectural layout should be taken into consideration.

Is The Lindis Lodge family-friendly?

Families with children over the ages of 12 are welcome. The entire property can also be booked exclusively to include children of all ages. Suites are best for families, with rollaway beds available at an additional nightly cost.

Who is the Lindis Lodge best for?

Remote and romantic, The Lindis Lodge is perfect for couples or those celebrating a special occasion.

Address: 1490 Birchwood Road, Ahuriri Valley, New Zealand

Check in: 3pm. Check out: 11am

How to get there

With the option to self-drive, parking is available. The Lindis Lodge can also arrange private transfers from Queenstown including luxury vehicle or helicopter.

Price: Nightly rates for 2-person occupancy start at $3,190 NZD for pods, $4,030 NZD for Lodge Suites, and $4,550 NZD for Master Suites. Rates include pre-dinner drinks and canapes, multi-course dinner, breakfast, lunch, turndown service, mini-bar and on-property walking trails.