Search hotels in Kakapotahi

Everything!!! Staff, food, and accommodations. We loved the cozy living room with spectacular views! It was very fun to dine with the hosts while enjoying a home cooked meal. Kathy and Neil were so kind, helpful, and warm. Would recommend to any family or friend.

Lovely location

quiet and relaxing, great for couples

While helicopters and airplanes offer incredible views of the Fox and Franz Josef glaciers, they don’t lend themselves to a relaxing afternoon or evening. To enjoy some tranquility, we chose the charming town of Harihari as our base for two nights. Nestled on the edge of a scenic reserve and roughly halfway between the glaciers and Hokitika Gorge, it was an ideal location. The Westholm Lodge exceeded our expectations. This quiet, warm, and comfortable retreat is surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens, providing a serene escape from the tourist crowds. Our room was spacious and thoughtfully designed, featuring a wonderfully comfortable bed and what might be the best bathroom and shower in all of New Zealand—luxurious and inviting. Breakfast at the lodge was a delight. The continental spread included Stacey's homemade yogurt, made with fresh milk from a local dairy, along with freshly baked pastries and bread that were both fragrant and delicious. It was clear everything was prepared with care and love. For travelers who might be too tired after a day of hiking, biking, or driving, Stacey offers the option of a homemade dinner with a day’s advance notice for a small additional fee. We were fortunate to enjoy her lasagna and venison pie, both of which were absolutely delicious. Wine and beer are also available, adding a lovely touch to the meal. Stacey's hospitality shone in her thoughtful recommendations for local activities. She suggested places to visit near the glaciers and Hokitika Gorge and even told us about a nearby glow worm walk in Harihari—a magical and unexpected highlight of our trip. One of the joys of staying at Westholm Lodge was meeting fellow travelers. During our stay, we chatted with friendly bicyclists from England and a retired couple from Vienna, Austria. These connections added a personal and memorable dimension to our experience.