Wonderland Makarora Lodge

2.5 star property

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Photo gallery for Wonderland Makarora Lodge

Exterior
Land view from property
Ecotours
Iron/ironing board, bed sheets
Front of property

Reviews

7.8 out of 10
Good

Popular amenities

  • Pool
  • Pet friendly
  • Parking included
  • Breakfast available
  • Laundry

Explore the area

View in a map
5944 Haast Pass-Makarora Road, Makarora, 9382
  • Place, Blue Pools
    ‪16 min drive‬
  • Place, Fantail Falls
    ‪17 min drive‬
  • Place, Peter Fraser Park
    ‪39 min drive‬

Room options

Economy Cabin with Private Kitchenette and Communal Bathroom

8.0 out of 10
Very good
(1 review)
  • Mountain view
  • 291 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 Double Bed and 2 Twin Beds

Standard Studio Chalet with Private Kitchenette and Cooking Facilities

  • Mountain view
  • 377 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 Queen Bed and 1 Twin Bed

Superior Two Room Chalet with Private Bathroom and Tea/Coffee making, Toaster & Microwave

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional
(3 reviews)
  • Mountain view
  • 560 sq ft
  • 2 bedrooms
  • Sleeps 5
  • 3 Twin Beds and 1 Queen Bed

4 Bed Dorm with Shared Kitchen and Bathroom

  • Mountain view
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 1
  • 1 Twin Bed

Economy Cabin with Shared Facilities

7.4 out of 10
Good
(3 reviews)
  • Mountain view
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 Twin Bed and 1 Queen Bed

Standard Winged Chalet with Private Bathroom and Cooking Facilities

  • Mountain view
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 5
  • 1 Queen Bed and 4 Twin Beds

Standard Double Chalet with Private Kitchenette and Bathroom

  • Mountain view
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 6
  • 1 Queen Bed and 4 Twin Beds

Superior Studio Chalet with Bathroom

9.0 out of 10
Wonderful
(2 reviews)
  • Garden view
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

Studio Chalet with Outdoor Bathtubs, Bathroom and Cooking Facilities

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)
  • Mountain view
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 Queen Bed and 1 Twin Bed

About the neighborhood

Makarora

Wonderland Makarora Lodge places you 8.4 mi (13.5 km) from Lake Wānaka. This 3-room lodge welcomes guests with conveniences like free self parking, a seasonal outdoor pool, and laundry facilities.

What's nearby

  • Blue Pools - 16 min drive - 7.3 miles
  • Fantail Falls - 17 min drive - 17.1 miles
  • Peter Fraser Park - 39 min drive - 38.0 miles
  • beach near Beacon Point - 57 min drive - 51.3 miles

Restaurants

  • ‪Makarora country cafe - ‬3 min drive

About this property

Wonderland Makarora Lodge

At Wonderland Makarora Lodge, guests have access to free WiFi in public areas, a seasonal outdoor pool, and laundry facilities. If you decide to drive, there's free parking. Front-desk staff can assist with tours/tickets and luggage storage. Additional amenities include a banquet hall, a garden, and a picnic area.
Recreational amenities at the lodge include a seasonal outdoor pool.

The recreational activities listed below are available either on site or nearby; fees may apply.

Similar properties

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Free uncovered self parking on site
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking available
  • Onsite parking includes off-street options

Things to do

  • Helicopter/airplane tours
  • Playground
  • Seasonal outdoor pool

Family friendly

  • Fenced pool
  • Laundry facilities
  • Playground
  • Pool gate
  • Seasonal outdoor pool

Conveniences

  • Laundry facilities
  • Limited-hour front desk
  • Luggage storage

Guest services

  • Change of bedsheets (on request)
  • Change of towels on request
  • Housekeeping (on request)
  • Tour and ticket assistance

Outdoors

  • Garden
  • In a national park
  • In the mountains
  • On the riverwalk
  • Picnic area

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • No elevator (single-level property)
  • Wheelchair accessible (may have limitations)
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking

More

  • At least 80% lighting from LEDs
  • Banquet hall
  • Built in 1956
  • Comprehensive recycling policy
  • Designated smoking areas
  • Humane treatment of captive wild animals
  • No plastic coffee stirrers
  • No plastic drinking straws
  • No plastic water bottles
  • Reusable cups
  • Reusable tableware

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Food and drink

  • Kitchen island

More

  • Heating
  • Iron/ironing board on request
  • Water-efficient toilets

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 3:00 PM; Check-in end time: 5:00 PM
Late check-in subject to availability
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

The front desk is open daily from 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Guests must contact the property in advance for check-in instructions; front desk staffed during limited hours
To make arrangements for check-in please contact the property at least 48 hours before arrival using the information on the booking confirmation
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Access methods

Front desk (limited hours)

Pets

  • This property welcomes pets for free
  • Dogs and cats only
  • 1 total pets
  • Restrictions apply
  • For more information, guests can reach out to the property at the number on the booking confirmation
  • Service animals exempt from fees

Property payment types

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
This property accepts credit cards, debit cards, and cash
Cashless transactions are available
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a smoke detector
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room
  • Check-in: 3:00 PM
  • Check-out: 10:00 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 18
The front desk is available during limited hours. Driving? This property offers free parking.

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
  • This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children. If you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • This property accepts credit cards, debit cards, and cash.
  • Onsite safety features include a fire extinguisher and a smoke detector.
  • Cashless payment methods are available for all transactions.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • The seasonal pool is open from November to April.
  • Pool access available from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
  • There are no elevators.
  • No cribs or infant beds are available.
  • No rollaway or extra beds are available.

National rating

Property class, provided by our rating system, is based on property type, amenities, and services.

Property is also known as

Wonderland Makarora
Wonderland Makarora Lodge
Wonderland Makarora Lodge Lodge
Wonderland Makarora Lodge Makarora
Wonderland Makarora Lodge Lodge Makarora

Frequently asked questions

Is free cancellation available at Wonderland Makarora Lodge?

Wonderland Makarora Lodge offers free cancellation on select room rates. For more details, look at the cancellation policy on our site.

What's there to do near Wonderland Makarora Lodge?

This lodge is located in Makarora within a short 1-minute walk of Te Wahipounamu. You'll also find Blue Pools nearby.

Will I be able to park at Wonderland Makarora Lodge?

Yes, uncovered self parking is offered for free at the lodge. Wheelchair-accessible parking is also available for guests.

Does Wonderland Makarora Lodge include a casino on the premises?

No, Wonderland Makarora Lodge doesn't have a casino.

Will I find an indoor pool at Wonderland Makarora Lodge?

No, this lodge doesn't have an indoor pool; however, there is an outdoor pool. Guests have access between 8:00 AM and 10:00 PM and the seasonal pool is normally open from November until April.

What amenities will couples enjoy at Wonderland Makarora Lodge?

Couples staying at this lodge will appreciate amenities like a seasonal outdoor pool plus some guestrooms include a mountain view and a rainfall showerhead.

Does Wonderland Makarora Lodge have a hot tub?

No, there isn't a spa tub at this lodge.

Does Wonderland Makarora Lodge have a restaurant with a breakfast menu?

No, Wonderland Makarora Lodge doesn't have a restaurant that serves breakfast.

Does Wonderland Makarora Lodge allow pets to stay for free?

Yes, cats and dogs can stay for free at Wonderland Makarora Lodge.

Does Wonderland Makarora Lodge have connecting rooms available?

No, there aren't connecting guestrooms at this lodge.

Can I book a room with a balcony at Wonderland Makarora Lodge?

Yes, every guestroom at Wonderland Makarora Lodge comes with a porch/lanai and some offer garden and mountain views.

Wonderland Makarora Lodge Reviews

Reviews

7.8

Good

Rating 10 - Excellent. 92 out of 266 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 94 out of 266 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 46 out of 266 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 21 out of 266 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 13 out of 266 reviews

8.0/10

Cleanliness

8.2/10

Staff & service

7.2/10

Amenities

7.2/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

8/10 Good

Jim

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
The staff were lovely. We had to move lodges because of a lighting problem and that did get confusing but all turned out fine in the end.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2026

6/10 Okay

Gail

Traveled with partner
Disliked: Amenities
This is an old establishment build in the 60s and 70s. The A frame is a quaint style but it is really just a room and bathroom, nothing special and the windows were unscreened, so I have sooo many sandfly bites. But the two worst things were the saggy old bed that caused back aches and the price. I can't recommend it at $260 NZD - that is not indicitive of what you will get.
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2026

6/10 Okay

Colette

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Difficult to find chalet in the dark as öate check in. A map would have been useful ehere keys picked up to know general vicinity rather than sneaking up to doors with a small light, perhaps?
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2026

4/10 Poor

LAKSHMI

Stayed 1 night in Jan 2026

6/10 Okay

Evan

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness
Kitchen sink exterior drain was blocked, then the interior one blocked as well. No fish slice in kitchen (though we were able to borrow one from the cafe for the night). Also, there were 3 of us, but there were only 2 towels, and 2 bathrobes. Baths were very slow to fill (had to supplement with hot water from inside), and needed constant monitoring as califont would shut off every few minutes. Also, there were no towel rails (or even hooks) in the bathroom.
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2026

6/10 Okay

Danielle

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness
Disliked: Amenities, property conditions & facilities
The room needs major updating. It was clean but that’s it. With very little money these “chalets” could be transformed into gorgeous comfortable accommodation. The reception, cafe / shop is very sparse in any products. Seeing there’s nowhere to buy supplies anywhere close by they really should have the shelves stocked fully. Staff were kind.
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2026

6/10 Okay

Michelle

Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2026

8/10 Good

Matt

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Friendly staff, quiet location, close to the toilets, clean.
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2026

10/10 Excellent

Narelle

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Clean chalet in a lovely location
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2026

4/10 Poor

William

Stayed 1 night in Jan 2026

8/10 Good

Lori

Stayed 1 night in Jan 2026

6/10 Okay

Janet

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Disliked: Property conditions & facilities
Easy parking. Staff lovely. Room although dated was very clean. The toilet and shower blocks were very basic and a bit worn. Substantial meal at the restaurant, good quality burger. Nice coffee. Very quiet, peaceful environment.
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025

10/10 Excellent

Seana

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
We loved it! Our A-frame "Big Blue" was perfect for our family of four - great space, very comfortable beds and useful kitchenette. Nice walking trails on the property and exceptionally nice staff at the front desk. Charming place! Thank you for a great experience.
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025

8/10 Good

Bin

Traveled with family and small children, Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Convenient location for a much needed break during a self driving tour around the South Island. The surround environment, particularly the trails are amazing. You can walk in a rain forest while enjoying the views of ice covered mountains. You may also experience hailing or snowing in the middle of summer.
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025

10/10 Excellent

Matthew

Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025

10/10 Excellent

Alice

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Spotless, lovely site - the privacy of the lodge within a woodland setting was wonderful
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025

6/10 Okay

Victor

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
We had no knives! One of the dining chairs was badly stained
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

8/10 Good

Shauna

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
It was clean. Staff friendly. Yummy Makarora burgers and chips for dinner
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

belinda

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Exceptional staff, beautiful gardens , plenty of parking, great food , fire and beers on tap.
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

8/10 Good

Christina M

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Disliked: Property conditions & facilities
This was a pit stop for us, we got in late, but were given good instructions to find our hut. Fortunately we stopped for a feed before arriving as the kitchen facilities were not what I was expecting.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Fiona

Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

2/10 Terrible

Sahil

Disliked: Staff & service, property conditions & facilities
The motel was closed upon arrival! Tried calling the motel and did not hear back. The signage said Motel closed no one around.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Beth

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The chalets are so cute and comfortable, and they had the heater running before I checked in so I could be toasty and warm in winter. It's a little rustic but charming and has a view of beautiful stars at night
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

4/10 Poor

SR

Disliked: Property conditions & facilities, room comfort
a single elment bar heater from the 70's is, one inneficient, and the windows and doors had no wind blocking tape, to seal, i had to grab my bedding to stay warm, when it was not even below zero, wifi, only in the communal kitchen, WHY? if everyone has to tether their pc's to their phones then all are loosing in speed, i have paid less for where i am now, than what i had at Makarora (kitchenette, ensuite, an actual bar fridge) a modern motel, not some "A" frame dinosaur that needs a serious upgrade from "it's" 1970's design, having one single AC power outlet. i will not be stopping there again
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

John

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Had a great stay here for one night, Kiwi hospitality at it's best plus Brazilian flair. I was let in despite turning up before check in time and there was a heater already on in the room. I'll be back!
Stayed 1 night in May 2025