Lodge nestled in stunning Ruapehu region

Ahuru Lodge sits on a large landscaped site above the trout-filled Tokiahuru Stream.

Tenders are being sought for an upmarket boutique lodge near Ohakune which was established on a private country estate close to Tongariro National Park in 2009.

Michael Pleciak of Bayleys Auckland and Frank Broadbent of Bayleys Ruapehu are handling the mortgagee sale of the purpose-built lodge with tenders closing on September 9 for the land and buildings only. Lodge chattels can be tendered for separately in conjunction with an offer for the property, or, the successful tenderer could negotiate these post-sale.

Designed by Havelock North architect Simon Clarkson, the lodge building comprises 598sq m of floor area set on a generous 1.08 ha landscaped site running down to the trout-filled Tokiahuru Stream. Expansive views from the majority of the lodge's large windows take in Mt Ruapehu and native bush land.

"This was built as a well-crafted, high-end lodge facility to cater for both the domestic and off-shore tourist market. It is well-positioned to capture the wedding and honeymoon market, the adventure tourism and skiing markets and corporate or special occasion functions," says Pleciak.

"A new owner could choose to continue operating the lodge, or equally, it would make a stunning private residence. Plus, when you consider the location and the facilities it offers, the property could also have real appeal for several families or friends who annually ski at Mt Ruapehu to combine resources and purchase their own luxurious ski retreat.

"The buildings have been empathetically-designed to complement the landscape and the lodge fits well with its environment. It is stylish yet understated and allows Mt Ruapehu to be the star of the show."

The lodge is configured to offer four luxurious guest suites, each with a lounge area, sunny private deck and ensuite. The bathrooms feature double-ended baths, massage showers, and under-floor heated tiles.

Communal facilities include a loggia (outdoor lounge enclosed on three sides) with impressive macrocarpa-lined ceiling, and a gallery room - both with open fireplaces; a library snug also with open fire, a New Zealand cedar-lined sauna room and a mineral spa tub.

A commercially-fitted entertainer's kitchen has been set up to cater for lodge guests and like the rest of the lodge, has stunning views. Owners/managers accommodation is in keeping with the quality and standards of the lodge and there is an attached double garage-workshop.

"The quality of the build and the opportunities that this property offers elevates it in the current market. The end-use options are varied; we expect wide-ranging interest in the property given these options including those looking for a high-spec private home," says Pleciak.

A recent media report stated that the number of Australian ski tourists to New Zealand rose by 30,000 in 2008 to 100,000, and the industry expects this to rise to at least 115,000 this season. Air New Zealand's direct Sydney-Rotorua flight is also expected to boost the appeal of Mt Ruapehu and the Ohakune region.

"Having dual World Heritage status, Tongariro National Park, which is the country's oldest National Park, and its environs are increasingly becoming a year-round destination given the recreational benefits the area offers," says Frank Broadbent of Bayleys Ruapehu. "The current restoration of the Ohakune Old Coach Road trail and its incorporation with the new Mountain-to-the-Sea Cycleway being promoted by the Government links a number of pieces of New Zealand's rail heritage, and takes people through a spectacular part of the park.

"The Old Coach Road trail is a cobbled road between Ohakune and Horopito which was in use 100 years ago to transport passengers by coach between the two railheads. When fully restored it will be one of New Zealand's premier tourist cycleways, and walks traversing native bush, old railway viaducts and tunnels will enhance the area's appeal for visitors and tourists."

Fishing, hunting, kayaking, and off-roading are pursuits that are progressively drawing people to the wider Ohakune area.