About Kokako Lodge
Kokako Lodge is a unique outdoor education camp in the northern Hunua Ranges south of Auckland. Rather than a typical theatre or stadium, it’s an 82-bed camp and conference centre set amid native forest at the foothills of Hunua Ranges Regional Park (www.newzealand.com ). The lodge is operated by a not-for-profit trust focused on youth development, so visits often mix accommodation with instructor-led activities. In practice, it’s privately hired by one group at a time, making it ideal for school camps, church retreats, leadership courses or team-building events (www.newzealand.com ) (hello-newzealand.com ). Signature features include the nearby 20-metre Hunua Falls waterfall, a ropes-course and adventure gear, and a strong conservation ethos: the lodge even helps with the regional kokako (native bird) recovery programme (hello-newzealand.com ). In short, Kokako Lodge is notable for its bush setting, education mission and community focus. Groups who love nature, environmental education or rugged team activity teams prize it, and it’s been officially opened by Prime Minister Helen Clark in 2000, underlining its regional importance (hello-newzealand.com ).
The lodge’s name comes from the North Island kokako (a rare native bird), reflecting its conservation goals. It is “Adventure Mark” safety certified and run by professional outdoor instructors (www.kokakolodge.org.nz ). The facility provides basic but sturdy bunks, dining and social spaces, and a modern commercial kitchen. While the accommodations are modest (“basic, clean, serviceable cabins” as one review noted (thefamilycompany.co.nz )), visitors appreciate the friendly staff and wide range of outdoor activities on offer (thefamilycompany.co.nz ) (thefamilycompany.co.nz ). The peaceful bush setting and waterfalls make it memorable – one guest called it “a once-in-a-lifetime experience” set against beautiful nature (thefamilycompany.co.nz ). Kokako Lodge plays an important role in Auckland’s culture by promoting health, confidence and environmental awareness in youth (especially Māori, Pasifika and other priority students) (www.kokakolodge.org.nz ) (hello-newzealand.com ).
Events and Programming
Kokako Lodge isn’t a concert hall, but it is a fully programmed camp. Booked groups at Kokako Lodge typically run multi-day indoor-outdoor programmes. Schools use it for Year 7–13 camps and leadership weeks, universities for field trips, churches for holiday or youth retreats, and businesses for team-building days. Each day is filled with 3–4 scheduled sessions of outdoor challenges, run by trained instructors (www.kokakolodge.org.nz ). Activities can include high-ropes and climbing (a 10 m climbing wall and other rope elements), archery, raft-building with bamboo and tyres, bushcraft/survival skills, orienteering, a glow-worm night walk on a dedicated trail, and various team-problem games (www.kokakolodge.org.nz ) (www.kokakolodge.org.nz ). There’s even a fun “Great Pancake Race” charade for drama/culinary teamwork (www.kokakolodge.org.nz ). Instructors are available at about one per 10 participants, typically at NZ$350+GST per day (www.kokakolodge.org.nz ). Larger groups often combine instructor-run sessions with self-led options like volleyball courts, table tennis, day hikes or the Burma Trail (a blindfold trust exercise) (www.kokakolodge.org.nz ) (www.kokakolodge.org.nz ).
Since 2020 some lodges have offered themed camps (summer adventure camps, spring girls’ camps, holiday programmes, etc.). Kokako Lodge traditionally hosts seasonal school camps during term breaks (e.g. April/Easter, July and October vacations) and full-group retreats at other times. Weekly schedules rotate by group needs – for instance, one testimonial recalled how a Year 13 leadership camp worked over 3 days to earn NCEA credits. Repeat events include annual youth conferences and church youth events; in every case Kokako Lodge is hired as a private venue, not selling individual tickets. In practice, visitors should check directly with Kokako Lodge (via phone or their booking form) for any advertised open-camp events. The only “event listing” turned up was a group “Spring Camp 2020” that was canceled. In short, programs here are custom for each group rather than public performances, with typical fees on the order of a few tens of dollars per person per day (www.newzealand.com ) (www.kokakolodge.org.nz ).
Typical activities: archery, trek on a “Burma Trail” loop (sometimes blindfolded), bushcraft/survival skills, building and racing bamboo rafts, low-rope team challenges, orienteering, team puzzles and communication games, and guided hikes in the kauri forest (www.kokakolodge.org.nz ) (www.kokakolodge.org.nz ).Adventure courses: a 10 m high-ropes climbing wall, cargo nets, beam walks and other elements for group teamwork and confidence building (www.kokakolodge.org.nz ).Evening events: a glow-worm walk on a special night trail and campfire-style gatherings in the Stuart Room (with guitars and drums available (www.kokakolodge.org.nz )) or around the outdoor fire pits.Group focus: Kokako Lodge programmes emphasize life skills, leadership and environmental learning. Instructors tailor challenges to goals like confidence, communication and fun.
Tickets and Booking
Instead of box-office tickets, visitors book Kokako Lodge by arranging group stays. Interested groups should contact the lodge directly – there’s no public online ticket platform. You can request a quote by emailing or phoning Kokako Lodge (www.kokakolodge.org.nz ). Once a program is agreed, the lodge issues an invoice: typically a 50% deposit (of the quoted total) is required to secure the dates, with the balance due after the visit (www.kokakolodge.org.nz ). There is no formal “ticket” or reservation software; bookings are handled personally. School groups often plan months in advance.
As for cost, there is a day-rate per participant rather than individual “ticket prices.” For example, their public listing suggests roughly NZ$30 per person per night (plus extra costs for instructors or equipment) (www.newzealand.com ). Weekend or holiday rates may be higher and depend on group size. All prices are quoted per person per day; the lodge does not charge for any overnight stay beyond the first night (arriving Friday night and staying through Sunday would count as two charged days) (www.kokakolodge.org.nz ) (www.kokakolodge.org.nz ). For planning, groups should factor in accommodation, activity fees and any meals/catering. Instructors cost about $350+GST per day each (www.kokakolodge.org.nz ). Overall, Kokako Lodge remains relatively affordable for schools – they even emphasize being “affordable for AIMHI schools” in their mission (www.kokakolodge.org.nz ) – but exact fees vary, so always get a quote well ahead of time.
Accommodation and Layout
The lodge buildings are simple, communal style. There are seven bunkroom cabins in total, sleeping 82 people (www.kokakolodge.org.nz ). Specifically, three cabins hold 12 bunks each, three have 14, and a smaller cabin has 4. Each bunkroom is a single large dorm space with mattress bunks and basic lighting. Cabin assignment is usually by gender or group. A staff music/meeting hall (the “Stuart Room”) and the main dining hall (with kitchen) are adjacent to the bunk areas. Two bathroom blocks serve the bunkrooms: one male and one female. Each block has four toilets and four hot-water showers (the men’s block also has a urinal). In addition, there is a separate disabled-friendly bathroom (one toilet and shower) for wheelchair access (www.kokakolodge.org.nz ) (www.kokakolodge.org.nz ). These facilities are near the bunkrooms and dining area. The lodge provides all soap, toilet paper and towels for these blocks (www.kokakolodge.org.nz ).
The ground-level layout means almost everything is on one floor. The “Stuart Room” doubles as a recreation and meeting space and contains a projector, 75″ smart TV and sound system with microphones. It even has musical instruments (piano, guitars, drums) and a ping-pong table (www.kokakolodge.org.nz ) – useful for downtime or indoor group activities. The dining hall is a large open area next to a fully equipped commercial kitchen (with walk-in fridge, freezer, ovens, hobs, dishwashers, and lots of cookware and crockery for self-catering) (www.kokakolodge.org.nz ). Outside, there’s a covered courtyard and deck space with two gas BBQs (bring or request the lodge maintain fuel) (www.kokakolodge.org.nz ). Because whole groups hire the lodge exclusively, there are no fixed “seats” or reserved spots: seating is whatever the dining tables provide, and outdoor lawns/courts are free for games. Acoustically it’s mostly quiet forest (the lodge has no noise curfew, so groups often play music or sing until late without disturbing neighbours (www.kokakolodge.org.nz )). Visitors should note the cabin walls are wooden and not soundproof – one guest remarked the walls are “thin” (thefamilycompany.co.nz ) – so it’s communal living. Heating is built into the dining hall and Stuart Room (heat pumps), but individual bunk cabins have no heaters. (Feedback says bunks warm up once occupied.)
Getting There and Parking
Location: Kokako Lodge is at 235 Falls Road in Hunua (Papakura area), Auckland. It’s around a 20-minute drive south of Papakura or Takanini towns, and about 40 minutes from Auckland Airport by car (www.newzealand.com ). Since it’s deep in the Hunua forest, the final approach is on a winding country road (Hunua Falls Road); look for signs or GPS coordinates. Allow at least an hour from central Auckland.
Parking: There is ample free parking on site. The property is designed for bus arrivals and large groups, so coaches and vans can pull up by the lodge buildings. There’s no parking fee, and paths are level, but guests should drive carefully on the rural road, which may have farm animals or cyclists. (“Exclusive hire” means lots of space to park your group’s vehicles (www.newzealand.com ).)
Public transport: There is no direct bus or train to Kokako Lodge. The nearest major transit point is Papakura Train Station (commuter rail from Auckland CBD). From Papakura you’d need a taxi or charter bus for the 15 km trip on rural roads. Alternatively, some buses run into Manukau/Papakura and you could walk or cycle in (though the final 5 km has no sidewalks). Guides like Rome2Rio note “no direct connection” by public transit – generally the answer is “car only” (www.rome2rio.com ).
Rideshare/Drop-off: Rideshare apps can drop you at the lodge entrance on Falls Road. If using a helicopter or floatplane for a real adventure, the lodge doesn’t have a helipad, so plan to land at Waikato River or Ardmore and drive. (In short: car or bus charter is the usual way.)
Inside the Venue
Stepping inside Kokako Lodge, expect a relaxed, rustic camp vibe with helpful staff. There is no public front desk – instead, arriving groups are met by lodge coordinators who handle check-in and orientation. Because the lodge is secluded, they ask everyone to register (for safety), note any medical needs, and get a brief safety talk. The atmosphere is very informal – typically staff in polos or outdoor gear, and guests in shorts, T-shirts and hiking boots. There is no strict dress code: practical outdoor clothing is best (for walk to falls or activities). Campers should label/snugen belongings per cabin.
Security: The site is secure and supervised, but it doesn’t have locked turnstiles or anything. In practice, instructors oversee all comings and goings. Personal valuables should be kept locked or on one’s person – this is a group living situation, so valuables are left at owner’s risk. The lodge itself does not have a safe-deposit box or cloakroom. If weather is bad, the big Stuart Room provides a dry indoor meeting area where meals or evening programs are held.
Food & Drink: There’s no cafeteria: groups either self-cater or hire external caterers. A large campus kitchen (with walk-in fridge/freezer) is available for guest use. Groups typically plan their own meals – one review praised the “generous” catering when provided by the lodge’s kitchen staff (thefamilycompany.co.nz ). Otherwise, many bring groceries and cook in the lodge kitchen. The lodge provides all plates, utensils, trays, coffee urns etc. Guests should bring cooking staples (tea towels, dish soap, detergent) – in fact the lodge asks groups to “please bring your own tea towels and dishwashing liquid” as their supply (www.kokakolodge.org.nz ). There are water-bottle refill stations and the tap water is drinkable (indeed very fresh), so no need to haul drinking water – just refill your bottle at the large drink station on site (www.kokakolodge.org.nz ).
Restrooms: As noted above, there are two main toilet/shower blocks (M/F) and one accessible room. All showers have instantaneous gas heaters and have plenty of hot water even in winter. The lodge supplies towels, soap and toilet paper for guest use (www.kokakolodge.org.nz ). Showers are private stalls, so you can change and shower as usual. The accessible toilet has space for a wheelchair.
Common Areas: The dining hall doubles as the main social space. Tables and chairs are arranged cafeteria-style. There is free Wi-Fi via Starlink throughout most buildings (www.kokakolodge.org.nz ), so teachers or leaders can run presentations or kids can video-call home. However, cell phone reception is patchy at the lodge – most networks don’t reach well down in the valley. Guests report that only spotty coverage (or 2G) is available, though the landline number in the dining hall can be given out for emergency calls. In fact, the lodge explicitly notes you can dial 111 (NZ emergency) from their landline if needed (www.kokakolodge.org.nz ).
Entertainment and Extras: Besides the activities, the lodge has some extras to make downtime fun. The Stuart Room has a piano, guitars, an electric bass and drums – groups often have an “open mic” jam session in the evenings (www.kokakolodge.org.nz ). There’s also a TV and projector if you want group movie nights. Board games or cards can be brought for rainy days. For outdoor fun, besides the ropes course there are open lawns for soccer/volleyball and a close-by nature path.
Smoking and Alcohol: The lodge has no prohibition on alcohol or late noise (www.kokakolodge.org.nz ), but encourages guests to “act responsibly” and respect the environment. (Many school groups leave alcohol at home, but church retreats and adult groups sometimes enjoy beer or wine by the common room.) Cigarettes are generally not used inside, but as it’s outdoors people may smoke in designated areas or outside cabins. There are two gas BBQs on the back deck which any group can use – just notify the staff to check the gas bottles before grilling (www.kokakolodge.org.nz ). Open fires (campfires) are not standard practice – if you want a fire circle you’d need to arrange it.
Nearby Amenities
Food and Drink: Right across from the lodge is the famed Hunua Falls carpark and picnic area, where Hunua Falls Café & Bar operates a casual restaurant and coffee bar (open most days for lunch and dinner) (hunuacafe.co.nz ). It’s a popular spot for hot food, pizzas, burgers and coffee – very handy for arriving groups or a post-hike meal. Aside from that, shops and larger restaurants are a 15–20 minute drive north in Papakura. Papakura town centre has cafes, takeaways and pubs (e.g. Poulton’s or Parkway Tavern) and a supermarket (Pak’nSave). Clevedon Village (north-east via Papakura–Clevedon Road) also has a historic bakery/café and general store co-op for essentials.
Accommodation: If part of your group needs to stay offsite, nearby towns offer hotels and motels. Papakura has several (Cascades Park Hotel, Travelodge, Rydges Papakura, Ashford Motor Lodge) from about 2 km up the road. Drury (on SH1) and Ardmore also have lodgings. There are also campgrounds near the Wairoa River (by Hunua Bridge) but Kokako Lodge itself is set up as the camp, so offsite stays are usually for overflow.
Shopping: There is no convenience store adjacent to the lodge. All food and camp supplies should be brought in by your group. The nearest supermarkets are in Papakura (a short drive north on Hunua Falls Road via Papakura town). The lodge’s kitchen walk-in fridge is large, but don’t count on midday grocery deliveries – plan and pack food in advance.
Other Services: Mobile petrol stations or pharmacies are likewise only found in Papakura. The Hunua area is mostly rural/forest. There is a strong but quiet volunteer fire station nearby, and the overall emergency address is clearly 235 Falls Road, so 111 calls can locate the lodge if necessary. One useful tip: if you forget an item, the Hunua Village (at the main Hunua crossroads) has a general store and café in a rustic building – small snacks or basic groceries may be found there.
What Makes This Venue Special
Kokako Lodge’s character springs from its mix of wilderness and community focus. Being tucked into the largest native bush reserve in Auckland means the native forest and waterfall are daily company (www.kokakolodge.org.nz ). It’s not just any camp – it opened with Government fanfare (Helen Clark’s attendance) and has a mission beyond recreation. The lodge is owned and run by a local trust in partnership with Auckland Council, and its programs emphasize physical and mental whānau-wellness, teamwork and environmental stewardship. Visitors often mention the lodge’s sense of purpose (“improving the health and fitness of all tamariki and rangatahi” as their vision puts it (www.kokakolodge.org.nz )) and the aloha spirit of the staff. Many school testimonials say students gained confidence and academic motivation after camp here.
Architecturally, the camp structures themselves are simple – unadorned timber buildings and cabins – but they are built into the bush setting with decks or paths that open into the forest. Historic elements include native carved posts or waka (canoe) imagery inside dining areas, reflecting Māori culture. The 245 m² “music/lecture theatre” (Stuart Room) has a timber stage and artworks by local children. Over time the lodge has been updated (a new concrete ablution block and solar-powered skybridge were added in recent years), but it retains a rustic retreat feel.
Culturally, it’s special to communities in Auckland’s south and east. The lodge has an emphasis on serving under-resourced schools (‘AIMHI’ schools) and working with Māori and Pacific Island youth. It also actively participates in local conservation – lodge staff and volunteers regularly help do pest control and revegetation around Hunua Falls to protect endangered species (hello-newzealand.com ). In effect, coming to Kokako Lodge is a chance to experience Auckland’s heart of wilderness while contributing to a longstanding local kaupapa (project). As the lodge itself advertises: visiting helps “shape the leaders of tomorrow” and fund environmental care (hello-newzealand.com ).
Finally, the lodge’s name reminds New Zealanders of the kokako bird – a blue-wattled songbird whose habitat includes Hunua. The site is even a listed search area for reintroduced kokako. Many long-term visitors equate Kokako Lodge with the magic of encountering glow worms, pukeko (Australasian ‘swamp hens’), tui and other bush birdlife on an evening walk. In summary, Kokako Lodge isn’t just a place to sleep; it’s a place to learn and connect with Aotearoa’s bush ethos, something both bands and school groups have repeatedly noted over the years (thefamilycompany.co.nz ) (thefamilycompany.co.nz ).
Visitor Tips and Information
Arrival and Check-in: Plan to arrive by mid-afternoon on your first day so the staff can give an orientation. Although there’s no strict “front desk,” lodge coordinators will greet your group, issue cabin assignments, and run a quick safety briefing. If traveling late, inform them in advance. The lodge operates year-round (all months) (www.newzealand.com ), but staff hours are typically Monday–Thursday 9 am–3 pm for booking questions. Keep “[sports gear or equipment to activities ready for early start.”
What to Bring: Pack for an active outdoor camp. Essentials include warm layers, rain jacket, and comfortable walking shoes (it can be muddy or uneven). Bring a sleeping bag, pillow and bedding unless confirmed otherwise (some camps request sleeping bags). The lodge stocks blankets, but personal sleeping gear is usually prudent. Bath towels are provided, but swimmers/shorts for the Hunua Falls stream or hot shower time are useful. Insect repellent and sunscreen are a must – the bush has sandflies and strong sun on open breaks. A torch or headlamp is very helpful for evening toilet trips or the glow-worm night walk (you’ll need a dim light to see). Don’t forget any prescription medication, toiletries and personal first-aid (bandages, etc.). Although there’s Wi-Fi, it can get patchy – some guests bring portable batteries or download maps of tracks beforehand.
Food and Water: As noted, you should plan to bring most of your own food and drink. There are large fridges and cooking facilities, but grocery stores are far, so shop in Papakura the day before arrival. Hydration is easy – the lodge signage says “Yes, the water is very nice!” and you can freely use the water station (www.kokakolodge.org.nz ). Alcohol is permitted but expect to clean up and enforce responsible drinking. (No midnight pub nearby, so if your group wants a night out, arrange transport back from Papakura or Manukau.)
Clothing and Gear: Dress casually. There is no formal dress code – think “camp clothing.” A change of clothes for the final day is wise. Gym/rugby/soccer shoes are good for activities; old shoes may get wet on rafting/orienteering. If a high-ropes activity is booked, ensure hair is tied back and no loose jewellery. The lodge advises sturdy footwear for walking to the falls (a 5–10 minute walk downhill). If bringing devices, note local cell reception is patchy – but 111 emergency calls do work. The lodge does have a landline and Starlink Wi-Fi for basic Internet.
Accessibility: One shower/toilet block is specifically designed for disabled access (www.kokakolodge.org.nz ). The buildings and paths are mostly flat, but there may be small steps. The lodge notes cell phones get better reception about 1 km up the road, so someone with limited mobility can stay in the dining hall or car if needed. Overall, wheelchair users can manage cabins and the dining area, but double-check any individual needs (contact staff if uncertain).
Common Mistakes to Avoid: Don’t underestimate the travel time – allow plenty to reach the remote site (especially at rush hour). Arrive early to avoid stumbling in after dark. Many groups forget suncream or warm clothes and realize at sunset how cool it gets. Bring your own kitchen basics (as above) – one coach operator learned the hard way that stores are far. Another tip: keep valuables locked or on your person, as thin walls mean EVERYTHING in the cabin can be heard. Finally, respect the bush – don’t feed the waterfowl or stray animals, and carry out your rubbish (recycling bins are available but no landfill open flames!).
What Not to Bring: Kokako Lodge is very relaxed, but common sense applies. Expensive electronics are generally left at home – it’s a “leave-no-trace” spot. Weapons or drugs are obviously banned. Pets are not allowed due to wildlife protection. Smoking is tolerated outside cabins, but be cautious with cigarettes (put stubs out fully). Fireworks and drones are not advised without permission (the lodge often joins conservation code of practice).
Emergencies and Health: In case of injury or urgency, the lodge administrators have radio contact with emergency services. There is a first-aid kit and staff with outdoor first-aid training. Mobile 111 calls can be made from the lodge DECT phone. If medical facilities are needed, Papakura Hospital is 20 min away. Do bring personal medical details for any students and inform the staff of allergies (the kitchen stocks general first-aid like bandages). For those prone to motion sickness: the drive in/walk to the falls can be winding – some advise taking precautions (scenic but curvy road).
What is the capacity of Kokako Lodge?
Kokako Lodge sleeps up to 82 guests at a time. The sleeping cabins hold 82 bunks in total (www.kokakolodge.org.nz ), and groups always hire the whole lodge, so that many people is the maximum occupancy (plus any instructors). No extra guests beyond the bunks are permitted, so plan each trip for 82 or fewer people.
How do we book Kokako Lodge for our group?
Kokako Lodge doesn’t use public ticket sites. To book, contact the lodge directly (phone +64 9 292 4349 or email the office in the hours listed on their site) to request a quote. You will receive an itemized invoice once your dates are confirmed. Expect to pay a deposit (around 50% of the estimated cost) to secure your booking (www.kokakolodge.org.nz ). Final payment is then due after your stay. It’s best to reserve weeks or months in advance for popular periods (summer and school holidays).
How much does Kokako Lodge cost per person?
There isn’t a fixed “ticket price.” Instead, the lodge charges a daily rate per person. For an example, their public listing mentions about NZ$30.00 per person per night (www.newzealand.com ). Actual rates vary by season and group size (weekends and school holidays often cost more). Instructor-led activities and equipment rental are extra. Groups should ask for a detailed quote. Remember the rate is per day (entire day), and if you arrive the night before, that first overnight is usually free – you pay for full booked days only (www.kokakolodge.org.nz ).
Is there parking at Kokako Lodge?
Yes – plenty. The lodge has free onsite parking suitable for cars and full-size coaches. You will drive right up to the accommodation buildings. Since the lodge is hired exclusively by your group, you have lots of room to park and unload buses or vans (www.newzealand.com ). There is no extra fee for parking.
Can we take a bus or train to Kokako Lodge?
The lodge is in a remote area, so there is no direct public transit. If you are coming without a private car, ride a train to Papakura and then arrange a taxi (the lodge is 15–20 km further south). Alternatively, you could take a bus towards Manukau or Papakura and walk/cycle the last stretch through Hunua. Travel guides note “no direct connection” by bus to Hunua Ranges (www.rome2rio.com ), so planning private transport from Papakura is recommended.
What bathroom facilities and showers are available?
There are separate male and female toilet/shower blocks. Each of those has four toilets and four hot-water showers (the men’s block also has a urinal) (www.kokakolodge.org.nz ). Additionally, there is one unisex bathroom with a disabled-access toilet and shower. So you have ample facilities even for large groups. The lodge provides hand soap, toilet paper and towels for these bathrooms (www.kokakolodge.org.nz ). Showers are coin-free and heated by gas, so there’s plenty of hot water at peak times.
Is the lodge wheelchair accessible?
Kokako Lodge has some accessible features. The site includes a disabled-friendly toilet and shower room (www.kokakolodge.org.nz ). The main buildings, dining hall and a few cabins are all ground-level. However, the lodge pathways are gravel or dirt, so wheeling from cabins to the hall may have small bumps. Guests in wheelchairs or with mobility needs should bring an aide or check with the office first. In general, it’s much more accessible than a backcountry camp, but not fully level like a hotel.
Does Kokako Lodge have Wi-Fi?
Yes. The lodge has Starlink satellite Wi-Fi coverage in most buildings (www.kokakolodge.org.nz ). It’s free for guests, but speeds can be moderate (suitable for email, web research and light streaming). Do note that mobile phone reception is poor on site – most networks only get a signal up at the top of the nearby hill. The lodge provides a landline for emergencies and critical calls (including dialing 111 for emergency services) (www.kokakolodge.org.nz ).
Are meals included or provided by Kokako Lodge?
No, meals are not included automatically. The lodge comes with a fully equipped commercial kitchen (big ovens, fridges, sink, utensils) for groups to use. Groups usually bring their own food or hire a catering service to prepare meals there. The lodge does NOT sell food on site, so you should shop in advance. (One review mentioned the lodge’s kitchen staff are “wonderful” when provided, so it’s possible to arrange hired meals too (thefamilycompany.co.nz ).) Bring groceries or ask the lodge for recommended caterers if you want a catering package.
Can I book an instructor-led program, and how much do instructors cost?
Yes, Kokako Lodge can provide trained instructors for your chosen activities. Their guideline is one instructor per ~10 participants, each costing about NZ$350+GST per day (www.kokakolodge.org.nz ). Activities range from high ropes to archery or raft-building. You pay the full instructor fee for each booked day. If you prefer, some activities (orienteering, team games, volleyball, etc.) can be run self-led with your own leaders. Either way, discuss with the lodge in advance which activities you want and the number of instructors needed.
Is alcohol allowed at Kokako Lodge?
Yes – there is no general ban on alcohol as long as guests are responsible (www.kokakolodge.org.nz ). Many adult groups bring beer or wine for evening gatherings, and the lodge even has a cafe/bar at the falls on site (Hunua Cafe & Bar) for locals. Since Kokako Lodge is private hire, your group can moderate its own drinking. Just keep the noise down and ensure everyone’s safety during activities.
Can we have a campfire or use BBQs?
The lodge has two gas BBQs on the rear deck available for guests, complete with patio heaters (www.kokakolodge.org.nz ). You may use these for outdoor cooking after clearing permission with staff. There are no permanent fire pits for campfires (wood smoke rules often apply in forest areas), so if you want an open fire, check with the staff first. In practice, most groups rely on BBQs or indoor dining. Also note you should bring your own charcoal or gas (they will check the tanks), and fully extinguish any coals.
What should we pack and prepare for our stay?
Pack for outdoor adventure and camp living. Must-bring items include warm clothing (especially for cool nights), own sleeping gear (sleeping bag, pillow), and comfortable shoes for hiking. Remember insect repellent, sunscreen, and a flashlight or headlamp (needed for the glowworm trail and night trips to the loo). The lodge provides bed linens or rugs but bring personal items like toiletries. You should bring all your food or arrange catering, and any activity-specific gear (towels, water bottles, etc.). A summary: warm layers, raincoat, insect spray, torch, any meds, and personal shower/shaving kit.
Is the water at Kokako Lodge safe to drink?
Yes. The lodge’s tap water is fresh from the local catchment and is safe to drink. In fact, the facilities include a large drink-station/water fountain where you can refill bottles. Visitors have commented that “we have very nice water” on site (www.kokakolodge.org.nz ). So feel free to bring water bottles and top them up at any sink or tap.
Are pets allowed at Kokako Lodge?
No. Pets are not permitted. Kokako Lodge is in a wildlife sanctuary and also houses many touring groups; for safety and conservation these restrictions apply. (Service animals might be negotiable if arranged in advance, but check with the lodge.) Otherwise, leave dogs/cats at home so that the native birds and other fauna are not disturbed.
What is the cancellation or refund policy?
Cancellation Terms aren’t posted publicly, so you should clarify with the office when booking. In general, there will be a deposit (often 50%) due at booking (www.kokakolodge.org.nz ). If you cancel well in advance, the lodge usually applies this towards another date, but late cancellations could forfeit your deposit. Allowable changes and refunds should be agreed upon up front. As a tip, book as early as possible and consider travel insurance if needed, since weather or group issues could force changes.
What sorts of wildlife or sights will we see?
The natural setting is a highlight. Expect to see native birds like tui, kererū (wood pigeons), kaka and even wild kiwi at dawn. The lodge is working to bring back kokako too. In the evenings you can spot glow worms along the special trail. Plant life includes large kauri and podocarps (rimu, totara). And of course the 20 m Hunua Falls – it’s right there next door, so groups often enjoy a short hike to view or swim in the pools fed by the falls. Nearby tracks in the Hunua forest offer waterfalls, a dam, fern glens and more. So it really feels like you’re in the bush.
