Waimarino Lodge - New Hotel in Queenstown, New Zealand

A Lakeside Haven Amidst Epic Landscapes

Waimarino’s elevated position frames uninterrupted views across the lake to Mt. Nicholas and the surrounding Southern Alps. Guests awaken to mirror-like waters reflecting morning light, the gentle rustle of native bush, and the distant call of alpine birds. Bob’s Cove serves as a private gateway to the grandeur of New Zealand’s mountains, with trails, cycling paths, and lakefront moments that invite guests to slow down, breathe, and absorb the pristine beauty of the region.

Architecture in Dialogue With Nature

Award-winning Design Base Architects designed the lodge to harmonize seamlessly with its surroundings. Low-slung structures, green roofs, and natural materials allow buildings to blend into native bushland, while expansive glass walls dissolve boundaries between indoors and outdoors. Interiors feature warm timber, stone, and soft textiles, creating tactile spaces where simplicity meets refinement, and every sightline is curated to capture lake and alpine panoramas.

Private Villas and Exclusive Residences

The lodge comprises five luxury villas, 15 premium villas, and a four-bedroom Owner’s Residence, each designed for absolute privacy and comfort. Villas include generous living areas, outdoor decks, hidden baths, and terraces that frame the lake and mountains. Floor-to-ceiling windows transform each view into a living work of art, while secluded outdoor spaces and private jacuzzis invite quiet reflection. The Owner’s Residence elevates the experience with multiple suite-style bedrooms, expansive communal areas, and a private pool overlooking the lake — perfect for families or groups seeking total exclusivity.

Fire, Terroir, and Culinary Storytelling

At the heart of Waimarino Lodge lies KA, a signature culinary concept that celebrates Central Otago terroir and fire-led cooking. Locally sourced ingredients, from garden vegetables to cold-smoked trout, are transformed through wood-fired grills and artisanal techniques. Meals may be enjoyed in the lakeside restaurant or taken to extraordinary settings: champagne breakfasts on alpine meadows, sunset canapés atop mountain peaks, or intimate dinners by the river. Curated wine pairings — from Central Otago Pinot Noir to mineral-rich Chablis — complement each dish, creating a sensory experience that is both grounded and expressive.

Wellness Amid Alpine Splendor

Wellbeing at Waimarino Lodge is woven into its landscape. A serene day spa features treatment rooms, a cutting-edge infrared sauna with panoramic lake and mountain views, and a fully equipped fitness and yoga studio. The 15-meter infinity pool appears to merge with the lake beyond, offering guests a contemplative retreat. Every wellness ritual, from spa treatments to mindful outdoor exercises, is designed to nurture body, mind, and spirit in harmony with the natural surroundings.

Curated Adventures and Immersive Journeys

Waimarino Lodge extends the alpine experience beyond its walls. Guests can explore Lake Wakatipu by private boat, cycle through native trails, or embark on heli-skiing and guided alpine hikes. Each adventure is bespoke, turning every day into a narrative of discovery, connection, and delight. Intimate experiences, such as private riverbank dinners or alpine picnics, transform ordinary moments into extraordinary memories.

A Sanctuary Where Time Slows

Waimarino Lodge is not just a destination — it is an immersive retreat where space, silence, and the rhythm of nature define luxury. Here, the lake reflects more than mountains; it mirrors a rare sense of calm, a curated lifestyle, and a profound connection to one of the world’s most breathtaking alpine landscapes.

We love Waimarino Lodge for:

– Opening in 2026 on the secluded shores of Lake Wakatipu, Bob’s Cove
– Five luxury villas, 15 premium villas, and a four-bedroom Owner’s Residence with panoramic views
– Architecture by Design Base Architects, seamlessly blending into nature
– KA restaurant, with fire-led, garden-to-table cuisine and curated wine pairings
– Bespoke adventures: heli-dining, alpine picnics, lake excursions, and guided hikes
– A private spa and infinity pool offering ultimate lakeside wellness and alpine immersion