Here at Waoku Lodge, we have some exciting news to share with you: we’ve recently been awarded Qualmark’s five-star Boutique and Lodge category with the rating, “Exceptional – among the best available in New Zealand.”

We’re thrilled to be recognised as one of New Zealand’s best lodges! In order to maintain our leading edge, we’re constantly upgrading the property and services offered to guests, and we’re delighted that all our hard work has paid off.

Over the past year, we’ve seen a huge increase in visitors, particularly from overseas, and we’ve expanded our team expanded in response, with Hinemoa Rossi the newest local to join the front of house team.

We would like to take this opportunity to thank our fantastic team of hard working staff, all our brilliant suppliers and of course our valued guests who make it all worthwhile.

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Friends and family gathered for a outdoor ceremony followed by sun-drenched dining on the front lawn, a Good George bar and later, dancing under the stars. Take a peek.

Stealing off for sunset photos just after dinner and spending a few precious moments with just each other were some of the highlights of their day. They also loved our apartments and along with their families spent two nights soaking up the relaxing vibe of Whale Bay.

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The little west coast surf town of Raglan is a magical place marked by dramatic black beaches, endless ocean vistas and sensational sunsets. Against this stunning backdrop, outdoor adventures, local art and cool boutiques vie for attention. The secret’s out: a weekend getaway in Raglan is an enticing prospect at any time of year.

For adventure lovers
Raglan is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts, graced with world-class surfing spots, gentle harbour waters and numerous walking trails and tracks. Book in for a surf lesson, paddle the harbour by kayak or paddleboard or pull on your hiking boots to explore at your own pace.

For art lovers
Raglan overflows with artistic talent, from painters and potters, to photographers, weavers, sculpters, jewellery makers and more. A wonderful way to discover Raglan’s art scene is to visit over Anniversary Weekend for the annual Raglan Arts Weekend. Outside of this weekend, many artists are happy to welcome you to their studios on request. Pick up a copy of the Raglan Art Trail Guide from the i-Site in town for address and contact details. There are also plenty of galleries scattered around the town, which are well worth a wander.

For shoppers
Browse Raglan’s main street and you’ll find all-natural health and beauty products, carefully curated women and men’s designer clothing and vintage goodness jostling for your attention. Shopping in Raglan is a truly eclectic experience. If you love markets, make sure you time your visit to coincide with the monthly Raglan Creative Market, held on the second Sunday of every month at the Raglan Old School Arts Centre.

Fancy a weekend getaway in Raglan? We’re ideally located to help you make the most of everything Raglan has to offer. Take a peek at our luxurious apartments (featuring private spas and soothing bush and ocean views) and start planning your next weekend escape. To check availability and make a booking, head here.

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You never have to look far to find romantic inspiration in Raglan – beautiful beaches and big ocean views create a backdrop so picturesque it could put a spell on even the hardest of hearts.

But hands down the most swoon-worthy time of year to visit is autumn, when the summer crowds have melted away and the sunsets take shimmering curtain calls. So if you’re looking to up your courting game, right about now would be the perfect time to book a visit. Here’s how to add extra fizzle to your stay.

Magical beach walks
Meander hand-in-hand along the black sands of Ngarunui Beach. At this time of year, late afternoon is the loveliest time to aim for – you’ll get the last of the day’s sunshine and still have ample time to find a secluded spot for the sunset show. Bonus points for taking along a blanket and a bottle of bubbles!

Heavenly horse riding
Pounding hooves equals pounding hearts. Surf & Turf Horse Riding offer beach rides, sunset rides and full moon night rides. Head to their website for full booking details.

Out on the town
If you’re the kind of couple who prefer a night on the tiles to a quiet night in, Raglan town has options. Pre-dinner drinks are best enjoyed on the deck of the Harbourview Hotel, while hot spots for tasty dining include The Shack and Orca Restaurant and Bar. If you’re visiting on a weekend, bands regularly perform at the Yot Club, the Harbourview Hotel and the Raglan Club. Raglan 23 has a regularly-updated gigs page.

Hunker down in style
Of course, what you might really be craving is a few days of pampering and luxury right in your apartment. Luckily, spa soaks, ocean-gazing and delicious food delivered direct to your door is always on the menu at Waoku Lodge. Check availability here.

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It gets stormy here on the West Coast. When the weather gods are at work, gale force winds, giant swells and pounding surf combine to produce a show more awe-inspiring than anything Hollywood can conjure up.

Raglan is at its most atmospheric in winter. So why not take a break from routine and escape to Waoku Lodge for a few days of windswept beach walks and storm-tossed ocean views? Nothing quite beats the exhilaration of battling it out with the elements before retreating to one of our cosy apartments, where you can watch the weather from a warm window seat or the bubbling sanctuary of the spa pool.

And if you pick the “wrong” days and turn up during a spell of fine weather, you get to experience empty beaches, bluebird days and starry night skies. Wild weather or warm – you just can’t lose. Check availability here.

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