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Croquet
Croquet has always been a favorite pastime of the aristocracy in the British colonies and a game can still be enjoyed at Otahuna Lodge. At teatime, it is not uncommon to find guests out on the lawn with a glass of New Zealand wine in one hand and a croquet mallet in the other. Petanque is also available.
Cycling
Otahuna Lodge offers complimentary use of Marin mountain bikes fitted with road tyres which are ideal for biking around the estate and exploring dappled country lanes. Routes are available to suit a range of experience levels. A leisurely jaunt may take guests a few kilometres to a local café, while the Port Hills will challenge even the most experienced mountain bikers.
Gymnasium
The exercise room is located in the historic laundry rooms of the estate. The gym offers free weights, a stationary bicycle, an elliptical machine and a rowing machine. Maps are also available for jogging and walking through the local countryside.
Massage
After a busy day exploring Canterbury, guests may enjoy the benefits of luxury accommodation by indulging in a relaxing or therapeutic massage. Therapists provide a range of treatments, styles and pressures to accommodate a wide variety of preferences.
Swimming Pool
A dip in the swimming pool will provide cool relief from Canterbury’s warm summer breezes. The swimming pool is heated from October to the end of April and is maintained at a constant 25°C (78°F).
The outdoor spa pool is heated to 38°C (101F°) year round and is a magical spot from which to star-gaze or contemplate the hills.
Tennis
Otahuna has its own hard-surface tennis court and provides complimentary use of racquets and balls. Staff can book professional coaches to give lessons on-site.
Guided Garden Tour
Garden lovers and botanists will enjoy a complimentary guided tour of the estate’s garden. Every season offers an interesting variety in Otahuna’s gardens, from the daffodil paddocks in September through to the spectacular oranges and golds of autumn foliage in May and, even in winter, evergreen trees whose bright red berries attract rare New Zealand wood pigeons. Tours can also be arranged of other nearby award-winning gardens.
Horse Riding
Neighbours in the Otahuna valley specialise in riding using the principles of natural horsemanship, commonly referred to as “horse whispering”. There is a variety of excellent rides available, from short afternoon rides on the hills, to full-day adventures along spectacular stretches of the South Island’s coastline and mountainsides. Guests are collected right from Otahuna Lodge’s front door.