Lodge and Property
Sustainability
We are committed to sustainably managing our lodge and property while enabling a safe and healthy environment for all those who visit.
Healthy Soil & Flavourful Nutrition
At Motueka River Lodge we believe that truly flavorful food starts with healthy, rich soils. Our focus on cultivating a biodiverse microbiome in our soils translates to healthier plants and ultimately a healthier you. The human microbiome, essential for our cellular, gut, and brain function, benefits from food grown with soil health in mind. Learn more about the connection between soil and human health through resources like the "Kiss the Ground" and “Common Ground” Netflix movies and regenerative agriculture movements that are critical to transforming our planetary greenhouse gas challenge.
We are obsessed with high organic matter healthy soils across our flower and vegetable gardens, vineyard and fruit trees. Only organic natural and safe fertilizers, compost and mulch are used in how we manage the entire 16 hectare property and grow healthful food that is prepared for our guests. Our winegrower and winemaker Abel team do an amazing job at maintaining the Chardonnay vines, maximizing yields and collectively harvesting in April. We are excited to have our own Ngātīmoti label coming to the lodge for guests to enjoy soon.
Fly Fishing & Guides
Enjoy single or multi-day fly fishing experiences with our professional guides. Our river frontage on the Motueka River offers easy access to gentle rivers or tackle the more challenging backcountry streams. Book early to secure the best guides
Helicopter Tours
Experience the region from above by helicopter. Custom tours include stops at Awaroa Resort for lunch, walking the coastline path, or guided kayaking. Explore Golden Bay's Te Waikoropupu Springs or visit Marlborough’s wine region.
Tours start from the Lodge or Motueka Airport. Ask about our promotional package deals with local providers Helicopters Nelson.
Bike & E-Bike Tours
Explore the region’s trails by bike, tailored for your needs we will work with our partner biking companies. Customize a guided or self-guided day tour with stops at wineries, breweries, galleries, and rural villages. The property bounds the Great Taste Trail which offers easy, scenic routes perfect for all abilities, whether on muscle-bikes or e-bikes.
Abel Tasan
National Park
Join a private chartered boat for a bespoke cruise through Abel Tasman National Park. Discover its pristine beauty. We work with local providers with sail boats, catamarans or powered boats to tailor your comfortable sailing adventure. Choose between a scheduled day tour or an exclusive private charter to explore the unspoilt islands, tranquil bays, marine wildlife and golden sandy beaches. Enjoy sailing, hiking the Coastal Track, or relaxing onboard. You can also engage in wildlife photography or kayaking. If short on time, opt for a helicopter return, enjoying stunning scenery back to the lodge.
Vineyard Wine Tasting
Discover top wines and vineyards in the sunny Nelson Tasman region. Enjoy cellar door tastings at Neudorf Vineyard, Gravity Cellars, and Moutere Hills. Let us help plan a personalized wine tour based on your preferences.
Sea Kayak &
Walking Tours
Experience the best of the region’s marine nature and wildlife by sea kayak and walking tours enabled by local partner companies. Choose from a wide range of options in departure location, length of tours and routes.
Regional Arts
& Culture
Explore Nelson's vibrant arts scene, including works by Katie Gold, Michael Macmillan, Craig Potton, and more. Visit local markets to find unique crafts and products. Let us plan your arts and cultural excursions based on your interests.
Contact us to plan your perfect adventure and ensure you don’t miss out!