Poronui - Luxury wilderness lodge
Poronui evokes an enormous sense of history from being a favored fishing and hunting ground for ancient Maori tribes through to guests today. Crystal clear mountain water tumbles through forests of towering beech trees and native ferns and then winds its way through alpine meadows of wild grasses on the valley floor. In the summer months, as mayflies settle on the water's surface, fishing becomes religion at Poronui.
The property has almost 25 miles of water with the Taharua and Mohaka Rivers. In the mountains adjacent to Poronui are vast estates of privately owned Maori land. They are privileged to have the access and concession to much of this resource.
Without doubt the exclusivity and remoteness of these rivers and streams makes them some of the most prized fly fishing waters in the world. Float trips with their licensed rafting guides and fly-outs with helicopters based right at Poronui makes for easy access.
The main lodge and guest suites have evolved from a rustic fishing camp into one of the world's finest fishing destinations -- a purpose built facility designed to the needs of the most discerning international angler.
Poronui captures the spirit of leisurely informality that characterizes rural New Zealand and the new lodge retains the same warmth and intimate hospitality for which our staff have developed such an enviable reputation over the last decade.
The lodge kitchen is renowned for its outstanding game food and local fare. You may also discover that our special streamside lunches right out in the wilderness are the best picnic you have ever had.
Poronui is close to New Zealand's largest grape-growing region in the Hawke's Bay and boasts one of the country's finest underground cellars featuring an extensive collection of award-winning wines. They store a staggering number of bottles covering most recognized vintages and their regular tastings are a highlight of any visit.
What was once a high country sheep and cattle estate has now developed into a world-class recreational retreat and discerning travelers can expect to find facilities to match. Their health spa includes a fitness gym, steam and sauna rooms, and massage facilities.
A must while at Poronui is to stay at their Safari Camp -- sophisticated rustic-luxe camping right on the Mohaka River. Fall asleep under a canvas roof without forgoing such luxuries as hot showers and crisp cotton sheets. For the angler seeking the absolute outdoor experience, we suggest a night at one of our streamside wilderness camps. While the angler seeking a different kind of experience should include Blake House, the private, stately and luxurious owner's cottage.
At Poronui you can make your stay as challenging or as relaxing as you like. The property is a glorious playground for outdoor pursuits. From the equestrian and mountain bike center you can ride more than a 100 miles of private roads and tracks through rugged pioneer country. Or bush walk through native beech forests and fields of wildflowers full of native flora and fauna. Expect to see red stags, sika, rusa, fallow buck, sambar, mountain goats, wild boar and Arapawa rams as you explore the property. Poronui also boats an Olympic standard sporting clays course and archery or target shooting.
