Akaroa Luxury Lodge

Birdsong Lodge 

(previously Akaroa Luxury Lodge)

Pippy McCurdy: 
 http://www.unusualstays.com/
http://www.stumbleuponcroatiaslovenia.com/

On the road to Akaroa take a right hand turn at Little River and wind your way up a road that is just long enough to make you think you must be lost. At about this time you will probably come across the entrance to Birdsong Lodge. Tucked out of site down a driveway, the Lodge is surrounded by tall trees close to a rushing mountain stream. 

More of a well appointed home than a holiday house Birdsong Lodge is charming, and in some parts luxurious. The marble bathroom is impressive,  as is the well kitted out kitchen. However it is the roaring fire in the enormous fire place which makes that first impression the most memorable. With its mirrors, its candelabra  and its leadlight sidelights, on a cold winters evening it is just the welcome you might hope for. 

Pull up the leather arm chairs, settle in wtih the basket of goodies provided,  open the wine ... Not surprising if you forget all about those noble plans to cook a meal.

The snow from the day before had just cleared that afternoon - but should it have chosen to snow again that night ... well being snowed in for a day or two might not have been such a chore!

But there is more to Birdsong Lodge than just a  little bit of luxury, because Birdsong Lodge has a Tree House! - Or more accurately, it has a Tree Stump House. The House is essentially additional accommodation to the main lodge with its two bunk beds and very little else, but it is oh so cute! 

Perched on a large stump like you have stumbled onto the set of the movie 'Up', this is one of only two Tree Houses that I am aware of in New Zealand which you can rent for a night. 

So it might not be actually suspended up in the tree tops, as are some of its more international counterparts, but one might wonder whether a truly suspended tree house is really such a good idea in our land of howling winds and grim winters. The higgledy piggledy steps leading up to the Tree House are in keeping, but they are certainly a challenge. But its worth it. 

Unique and unexpected, this little touch of whimsy makes Birdsong Lodge more than just another fancy stopover. This is definitely worth a visit.

Websites: http://www.unusualstays.com/
http://www.stumbleuponcroatiaslovenia.com/

La Crique Greytown

La Crique - Greytown

Pippy McCurdy
 http://www.unusualstays.com/
http://www.stumbleuponcroatiaslovenia.com/


Greytown is a shining example of how to make your town into something special! Interestingly enough (and this is not the only time this has happened) it is because Greytown was once passed over that its character and architecture has survived -  (think Melbourne). Early in its history it suffered the indignity of being by-passed by the rail service - an initial body-blow to its growth.  Once also it  was to be the fruit-bowl of the Wairarapa -  but not to be.

But did it languish and become that place where everyone passes  through but no-one wants to stop? No. Instead it has become the premium destination of the Wairarapa. Now it is a town of niche market charm built on a base of wine and olives.  How did this happen?

Possibly it was due to the vision of a positive thinking mayor. It is not so long ago that John Garrity  took the approach that he may not have the funds to assist new businesses and entrepreneurs but he was not going to stand in their way. The first outdoor seated cafe was laughed at! But its owner pressed on and hurrah! The council did not create obstacles to beat down this visionary owner and force him to give up his vision. Let's face it - this has happened in so many other towns in New Zealand.

So now Greytown thrives. Small creative businesses are attracted to this town and as a result it has become a charming and popular destination. In partnership with an appealing town, Wairarapa excels at creating events which bring people to the area.

Martinborough Fair and Wings Over Wairarapa are just twosuch events. And now there is a third. Eclipse Stonehenge (picture above) was a recent outstanding success and must surely become a regular event.










La De Dah is an overnight stay in Greytown which has picked up on the French connections of the area. Located in a period villa it has charm, style and eclectic appeal. La Crique is a  single bedroom apartment  - one of twooptions at La De Dah.








 With its tiled floors, decorative furnishings and French country charm it is every bit 'un maison de la campagne'. Delicious provisions for a light breakfast come as part of the package. Reasonably priced and and absolutely charming, this is such a pleasant alternative to a standard motel!