Try “family spa near Zermatt” or “boutique hotel with Michelin dining”

Whare Kea Lodge and Chalet — 5-star luxury ski hotel in Wanaka, New Zealand, New Zealand near Cardrona Alpine Resort
Wanaka, New Zealand

Whare Kea Lodge and Chalet

Near Cardrona Alpine Resort6 rooms40 kilometers to lifts
13
SnowSure™
Limited
Last Snow
May 10
24h
0cm
7 Days
0cm
Season
47cm
Full Snow Report
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Set on the shores of Lake Wanaka, Whare Kea Lodge and Chalet blends contemporary luxury with breathtaking alpine scenery. The lodge features elegant suites, gourmet cuisine, and personalized service, while the exclusive mountain chalet offers a secluded retreat for adventure and relaxation. Guests enjoy tailored experiences, from heli-skiing to lake activities, all in a tranquil, architecturally stunning setting.

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Quick Facts

Rooms6
Distance to Lifts40 kilometers
Distance to Airport63 km
WebsiteVisit Site
Instagram@whare.kea

What We Love:

Whare Kea Lodge and Chalet offers contemporary luxury and personalized service on the shores of Lake Wanaka, with breathtaking alpine views and exclusive access to world-class skiing and adventure.

Guest Experience

Experience the ultimate in lakeside luxury at Whare Kea Lodge and Chalet, where contemporary design meets the dramatic beauty of Lake Wanaka and the Southern Alps. Savor gourmet, chef-prepared meals with locally sourced ingredients, whether dining in the elegant lodge, alfresco on the terrace, or during a private heli-accessed mountain picnic at the exclusive Whare Kea Chalet. Spacious suites and the private chalet offer super king beds, deep baths with panoramic views, and private balconies or decks, ensuring comfort and tranquility after days spent skiing, hiking, or exploring the region’s renowned wineries. Personalized concierge service, direct lake access, and unique amenities like a helipad, outdoor hot tub, and games room make this retreat ideal for discerning travelers, special celebrations, and unforgettable alpine adventures.

Amenities

HelipadDirect lake accessConcierge serviceFully equipped kitchenPrivate chef availableBilliards and games roomPiano and guitar for guest useOutdoor hot tubLarge dining and lounge areas with guest bar and open fireplaceOutdoor seating areasOutdoor chimeneaGas BBQSki storage and drying facilitiesEnsuite bathrooms with under-floor heatingWalk-in showers

Dining Experience

• Private Chef Dining at Whare Kea Lodge – Gourmet, bespoke menus crafted by private chefs using fresh, locally sourced New Zealand ingredients, served in the elegant lodge dining room or alfresco with panoramic lake and mountain views.

• Heli-Accessed Alpine Picnics and Chalet Dinners – Signature experience featuring chef-prepared cuisine at the remote Whare Kea Chalet on the Buchanan mountain range, accessible by helicopter for an unforgettable alpine dining adventure.

• Curated Wine Pairings – Extensive selection of fine New Zealand wines expertly paired with each meal, enhancing the flavors of the region’s seasonal produce.

• Seamless Access to Wanaka’s Culinary Scene – Personalized recommendations and arrangements for acclaimed local venues such as Kika (modern sharing plates), Bistro Gentil (French-inspired lakeside dining), and the historic Cardrona Hotel for après ski drinks and hearty fare.

Après Ski

Whare Kea Lodge and Chalet offers an exclusive alpine dining experience with gourmet meals prepared by private chefs, focusing on fresh, locally sourced New Zealand produce and fine wines. Guests enjoy bespoke menus in the elegant lodge dining room or alfresco on the terrace overlooking Lake Wanaka and the Southern Alps. The lodge’s signature experience includes heli-accessed mountain picnics and private dinners at the remote Whare Kea Chalet on the Buchanan mountain range, where guests can savor chef-prepared cuisine in a dramatic alpine setting. While the lodge itself is secluded, Wanaka’s vibrant dining scene is a short drive away, featuring acclaimed venues such as Kika for modern sharing plates, Bistro Gentil for French-inspired fare with lake views, and the lively Cardrona Hotel for classic après ski drinks and hearty pub meals. For a unique après ski experience, visit the Gin and Raspberry Bar for cocktails with panoramic lake vistas or enjoy local craft beers at Rhyme and Reason Brewery. Whare Kea Lodge’s personalized service ensures seamless access to both refined in-house dining and the best of Wanaka’s culinary and social offerings.

Design & Architecture

Expansive glass walls and open-plan living spaces frame panoramic lake and alpine vistas, while natural timber and stone elements create a seamless connection to the surrounding landscape. The interiors balance understated contemporary elegance with bespoke furnishings, featuring deep soaking tubs positioned for optimal views, sculptural fireplaces, and private decks that blur the boundary between indoor comfort and the dramatic outdoors.

Staying at Whare Kea Lodge and Chalet in Wanaka, New Zealand, positions you perfectly for an exceptional ski holiday in the heart of the Southern Alps. This exclusive lakeside retreat offers easy access to some of the country’s most celebrated ski resorts, each with its own distinctive character and world-class amenities. - Treble Cone: Just a 30-minute drive from the lodge, Treble Cone is renowned for its expansive terrain, long runs, and breathtaking views over Lake Wanaka. It’s a favorite among advanced skiers and snowboarders, offering challenging off-piste areas and the largest skiable area in the South Island. Signature activities include heli-skiing and guided backcountry tours. The best time to visit is July to September, when snow conditions are at their peak. Insider tip: Arrive early to enjoy untouched morning powder and savor a coffee at the mountain café with panoramic vistas. - Cardrona Alpine Resort: Approximately 40 minutes from Whare Kea, Cardrona is ideal for families and mixed-ability groups. The resort features wide, groomed trails, excellent terrain parks, and a dedicated beginners’ area. Cardrona is also known for its vibrant après-ski scene, with on-mountain dining and regular live music events. For a unique experience, try night skiing or book a private lesson for personalized instruction. The season typically runs from mid-June to mid-October. - Snow Farm: For guests seeking a different alpine adventure, Snow Farm offers New Zealand’s premier cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails, just 35 minutes from Wanaka. Enjoy guided snowshoe hikes, dog sledding, and cozy overnight stays in backcountry huts. This is a wonderful option for families or those looking to explore the winter landscape at a gentler pace. Après-ski, Wanaka’s vibrant town center awaits with award-winning restaurants, boutique wineries, and local art galleries. Don’t miss a lakeside stroll at sunset or a private wine tasting featuring Central Otago pinot noir. International guests will appreciate the seamless transport options and English-speaking staff, while families benefit from excellent ski schools and childcare services. Advanced skiers should consider booking heli-skiing excursions for access to untouched powder and dramatic alpine scenery. Whare Kea Lodge and Chalet offers a refined base for exploring Wanaka’s premier ski destinations, ensuring a memorable and luxurious alpine escape tailored to your interests.

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