The new lodge is called Hunter Downs, and it sits alongside Terrace Downs Golf Course Resort, ranked one of the three top golf complexes in New Zealand. It overlooks the Number 3 tee, where the Mount Hutt ski area serves as a stunning backdrop. Christchurch International airport is only an hour's drive away.
The lodge was built by Shane and Vanessa Johnston of Four Seasons Safaris New Zealand. Guests at Hunter Downs can enjoy a variety of activities, including golf at a championship 18-hole course, jet boating, snow skiing, ice skating, hiking, horseback riding, hot air ballooning, 4wd tours and tennis. There is also a health and beauty spa on site, a games room and a full-service restaurant, café and bar. Shopping and other activities are a short drive away in Christchurch.
As for the accommodations, Hunter Downs is definitely an outdoorsman's lodge. It's a double-storey building, employing cedar and river stone to great effect. The front door handles are two huge red deer antlers, and the interior is a mix of comfort and class. There are several mounted alpine big game and trout specimens, tasteful art and outdoors sculptures and plenty of hunting and angling memorabilia. The lodge offers four private luxury suites, each with a modern ensuite, including beds for children, an upstairs balcony bar, large lounge and spacious dining area. Vanessa Johnston is in charge of the kitchen, hospitality and activity needs of the clients, particularly the non-hunters.
From Hunter Downs,........(continued)
