Lochmara Lodge

Nestled on the shores of stunning Queen Charlotte Sound, Lochmara Lodge has combined conservation and art plus a good dollop of indulgence to give this business a winning edge.

The Lodge won the DOC Conservation in Action Award at the 2010 Tourism Industry Awards, recognition of the innovation behind its Wildlife Recovery Centre which is funded by art sold at the Lodge and day visitor entry fees.

The centre works together with the Department of Conservation to breed native species like kakariki for eventual release to predator free areas. It also has a rehabilitation facility for injured native wildlife.

Owners Shayne Olsen and Louise Bright say it is very satisfying knowing that their conservation work is making a difference. Not only is the centre good for the environment, it’s also another attraction that draws increasing numbers of visitors to the Lodge and gives them a competitive advantage.

Louise and Shayne established a backpackers at Lochmara 13 years ago. Three years ago they started to turn their long-held dream into a reality, transforming the backpackers into a restaurant, lodge with 14 chalets, wildlife recovery centre and arts centre. Paths now wind through 4.5 hectares of native bush, past an art studio, sculptures, hammock haven, and wildlife refuges for kakariki, weka, weta, gecko.

The lodge is 15 minutes by boat from Picton, or two hours walk along the Queen Charlotte Track from Mistletoe Bay.

“When they get here people see all the different aspects of Lochmara. We’re not just accommodation and a lovely restaurant, we’re a total experience,” says Louise.

The lodge attracts families and couples as well as independent travellers. Many Marlborough residents also make a regular beeline to the lodge in their boats to enjoy the restaurant.

The introduction of day trip packages has opened up a market for visitors who are short of time but who want a destination, not just lunch, says Louise. The Lodge’s new Bath House features in the Friendtastic Day trip, which includes lunch, a massage and an hour long soak in luxurious twin tubs overlooking the beautiful bay.

www.lochmaralodge.co.nz