WALKING

Mahana makes a good base for day walking the Queen Charlotte Track. There are two very good day walks from here along the Track which give you an overall experience of the Track. One leads from Mahana to a look out point with stunning views – Eatwells Lookout – and takes about 4 hours return. The other goes in the opposite direction along the Track. You can go to the Head of Endeavour Inlet (3 – 4 hours) and catch a boat back across the Inlet to Mahana.

MT STOKE WALK

Mt Stoke is the highest mountain in the area and the view from the top is absolutely amazing. However, it is often in the clouds so check the weather before undertaking this climb. The track starts about 6 km along the road from Mahana and follows a route (signs on trees) rather than a formed track. From the start of the walk it will take you about three hours to reach the top. If you are staying at Mahana and do not have a car we will probably be able to take you to the start of the track by car. We will certainly give you directions and advice.

KAYAKING

In calm weather, the clear waters of Endeavour Inlet are wonderful to explore in a kayak. You will find secluded coves and beaches, hundreds of water

 
birds, eagle rays, and many shell fish and star fish. You can go out for an hour or two, or you can just have a quick paddle around the coast. We have kayaks and a row boat for the use of our guests – free of charge. We supply life jackets and will also give you basic advice and safety instructions.

FISHING

There are many fishes in the waters around Mahana. Currently there is a ban on taking Blue Cod which is by far the most common fish. This is a conservation measure and will remain in place for four years (until 2012). However, there are other good eating species of fish available although they are more difficult to catch. If you have a particular interest in fishing, please let us know and we will endeavour to help you.

GARDENS

Mahana Lodge and Homestead are set in 40ha of native forest and established gardens. You are free to explore these gardens, but pride of place is our extensive spray free fruit and vegetable garden. Every afternoon we invite those guests who are interested to help John harvest the produce for that evening's home cooked dinners. At the same time, you can meet our beautiful free range hens who are supplying the breakfast eggs.

BEACHCOMBING

There are many treasures - shell fish, crabs, unusual stones and shells, strange shaped driftwood etc – which are to be found on the beach and around the rocks at low tide.

SWIMMING

Don’t forget to pack your bathers. The beach at Mahana is sandy and safe – and it is never crowded.

GLOWORMS

There is a magical glow worm grotto at Mahana only about 20 metres from the Lodge. Take a walk after dark, follow the path and find yourself gazing at a myriad of “stars” twinkling at you across the stream. We have information on the fascinating life cycle of the glow worm available at the Lodge.

RESTING

This is one of the most worthwhile activities at Mahana. We like to think of it as “feeding the soul”. We have an extensive range of books, games and puzzles for you to enjoy. Spend the afternoon in a hammock with a good book, or lie back in one of our loungers on the beach listening to the waves and the birds. Or if it is wet, sit by the log fire in our comfortable lounge looking out over Endeavour Inlet and watch the storm clouds and the rain stirring up the water.
MarlboroughNet Web Design & Internet Promotion
© 2012 Mahana Lodge