Southern Urewera

A picturesque area steeped in cultural and geological history.

Surrounded by lush farmlands and forestry, Kohutapu Lodge overlooks the pristine Lake Aniwhenua - teeming with Rainbow and Brown trout.

Kohutapu Lodge is an intimate haven and perfect stopover point for setting off early to navigate the winding scenic route to Lake Waikaremoana (approximately 2.5 hours), is only 45 minutes to Whakatane for White Island and Whale Island tours. Venture 1 hour to Rotorua - the tourist mecca of the New Zealand - or 1 hour to Taupo, with plenty to see and do in between! An idyllic spot to base yourself for exploring the beautiful Eastern Bay of Plenty.

A private jetty stretches out into the lake, from where you can go kayaking, or explore the lake further by dinghy. Other water sports, including fishing, are available by arrangement. With fabulous lakeside location there’s plenty to keep you entertained! Great trout fishing right on your doorstep, hunting for deer and wild pigs, game shooting, bush walking in the Whirinaki, tramping in Te Urewera, mountain biking in Minginui, kayaking, rafting or jet boating the Rangitaiki . . . or perhaps even just relaxing!

Accommodation options range from self-contained cottages to lodge cabins, powered and tent sites – there is something for everyone here!

For many people, Kohutapu Lodge will remain a relaxing stay or holiday spot in a beautiful unspoilt location – however – if you wish to delve a little deeper and connect even further with your hosts, you will certainly be able to do just that.

We are delighted to share with you our stories, our culture, our kai (food) and the warmth of our manaakitanga (hospitality). The Toe Toe whanau (family) belong to the Ngati Manawa Tribe, and their whakapapa (family tree) stretches back to these lands 400 years before the Great Migration, to the first inhabitants of this rohe (land within the tribal boundaries). Many of their stories have been handed down generation to generation and are waiting to be shared especially with you, along with plenty of interactive cultural activities and traditional kai (food) experiences.