The beauty of this place starts with its name -- Mahana is a Maori word that means warmth, shelter, and hospitality. And that is exactly what you get here from the lovely owners John and Anne -- a warm welcome in a homey atmosphere.
The homestay is located in Endeavour Inlet, Marlborough Sounds, and is a superb place to stop while walking the famous Queen Charlotte Track. If you're not walking it, you can either drive (the roads aren't very comfortable though) or, the better option, take a water taxi from Picton and get yourself marooned in this magical spot where you will hear only cicadas, tui, and bell birds -- maybe the odd kiwi call at night.
Mahana Lodge is situated above and behind the actual homestay (a pretty 1890s house with a quiet verandah where the evening meals are served), up a short path and has wonderful views over the Inlet. There is a cosy lounge with bay windows making the most of the views, a well equipped though a tad small kitchen and two verandahs. Games and books cater for your needs in the evening or cooler weather, while inviting hammocks and loungers in the garden make for excellent relaxing on warm days. At night there is a glow worm grotto to be explored, just a few yards behind the house.
The rooms are spacious (where other hostels would put in six beds or more, Mahana has four), clean and simply but tastefully decorated. There are chairs and a sideboard for people to put their stuff and each bed has its own reading light. Apart from four-shares there are several private rooms to be had. The showers are clean and inviting (handheld showers with good water pressure -- getting the right temperature is easy too), as are the toilets (soap provided at the wash basins).
Although there is a good communal kitchen, you might like to opt for a home-cooked, two course meal (vegetarian option available) on the verandah for a small price -- the deal is you wash your own dishes afterwards. There is also the possibility of ordering breakfast and lunch packs. All in all, this is a fabulous place to stay -- it made our journey to New Zealand a few happy memories richer.
-- Exclusive Hostelz.com Review
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