Hāwea Hotel

How does the idea of enjoying your morning coffee from a private balcony, with uninterrupted views of mountains encircling one of the country’s largest lakes, sound in your head? Perhaps a first-rate afternoon meal in a sunny garden bar, well-deserved after a morning of biking, walking, boating, or reading your book in bed? Whatever your inclination, Hāwea Hotel has something for you.

Above the trees, the pointed gable forms of Hāwea Hotel are the first sign of life you see upon crossing the bridge over to Hāwea village. Proudly perched on the hillside, gatekeeper to the community, it’s a quintessential Kiwi pub - on paper. Sure, it’s a real, old pub that has been looking after the locals since 1925. But what sets Hāwea Hotel apart is its seriously great service and exceptional eatery. (The decent selection of beverages and vistas from the lakeside restaurant don’t hurt either.) With a traditional yet contemporary menu that changes more frequently than the seasons and honours local ingredients, it’s a place you’ll want to come back to and share with others

Hāwea Hotel’s location, relative to the lake and walking and biking trails, is unbeatable. Whether you’ve climbed to a nearby summit or part of one, this warm and welcoming ‘pub’ is the perfect place to end your outing. Take in the spectacular view and share a bowl of chips, or feast on something more.

From barefoot kids leaving their bikes strewn about to hunters returning from the West Coast, relaxing fire-side in the bar with a swappa bottle, Hāwea Hotel is the first hello and the last goodbye to people coming through this slice of real Aotearoa New Zealand.

Always warm and welcoming, Hāwea Hotel embodies the area’s community spirit. Where’s your next weekend getaway going to be?