"Promise only what you can deliver, and deliver more than you promise"
Welcome to Ipipiri Lodge, a boutique luxury lodge that has been specifically built with our guests in mind, and also great as a holiday destination.
How Ipipiri Lodge got its name (click on the link to find out more)
Nestled in Northland's stunning Bay of Islands, Ipipiri Lodge is a 10 min drive from the bustling Kerikeri township, the historic Stone Store, the magical Rainbow Falls and only 30 min from Paihia where you can catch the ferry over to historic Russell.
Ipipiri Lodge offers three stylish luxury suites catering for up to six guests. Each suite features quality fixtures and fittings, with views of the surrounding rural farm land and has been designated a name significant to an area within the Bay of Islands. Each suite has its own patio with outdoor furniture so it is a perfect place to relax and sit and enjoy a cup of the local tea, coffee or wine.
The house and bedrooms have been tastefully decorated based on a New Zealand theme using local goods and products throughout (where appropriate).
A guest lounge is provided for the use of the Internet, and a small library of New Zealand and local books. A great place to sit and take some time out to find out more about the history of the area.
A generous continental or cooked breakfast is available for guests in the dining room which is the perfect way to begin your day in the Bay of Islands. An evening meal is also can be provided with adequate notice. Local produce and goods will be used (seasonal of course) as much as possible including the tea, coffee, vegetables, and our own free range eggs (just to give you an idea of what is available).
So come to the tropical north and join in with us, your hosts: Elaine and Graham Belben, to sit, relax and watch the world go by.
Our Greeting Sculpture - the guardian of Ipipiri Lodge
The Whale's Tail/Fish hook sculpture greets all family, friends and guests to Ipipiri Lodge. This magnificant emblem stands at two metres high and was made for us in Kaitaia.
The ocean has always been a dominant force for the Maori people who travelled huge distances in their long canoes (waka) and lived on the bounty of the tropical waters. They had great respect for the creatures within especially dolphins and whales, therefore the sculpture has several meanings within it
Whales are a symbol of protection. This symbol of protection encompasses the friendship and companionship words cannot express of the complex relationship between these mammals and Maori.
Hei Matau (fish hooks) symbolise provision and prosperity, strenght, prosperity, abundance, fertility and a great respect for the sea. It is also said to provide safe journey over water. The fish hook is also the emblem of the South Island. Hei-Matua are also symbols of power and authority which are held in great reverence by the Maori people.
They were used as a practical tool for fishing and were often decorated as a sign of respect for the creatures of the sea. If worn as a neck adornment then the wearer was provided with companionship, support in times of need, love and food if the wearer is a hunter or fisherman.
In the eye of the fish hook is the New Zealand Paua which is unique to New Zealand - it is the most colourful shell in the world and is a species of Abalone (Haliotis Iris). Paua are primarily caught for their meat, which is a traditional delicacy of the Maori. There is a strict quota system in place to sustain the management of paua fishery. Every shell is different in colour and the colours change when viewed from different angles, and it is this iridescence that make paua shell magical!
We have chosen this magniciant emblem to be the guardian of our house as it holds many meanings to us through Elaine's family tree (whakapapa), a career on the water in the navy for both of us, our Maori connections through- family and friends, and for the closeness of the water in the Bay of Islands. It is also the beginning a new life and new challenge where we are trying to focus on New Zealand connections, products and goods as much as possible to provide you with the best.
Address: 216 Ness Road, Waipapa, Kerikeri, Bay Of Islands
Phone: +64 9 407 4159 Mobile: +64 272 124 159 Freephone: +64 800 407 4159 Email: info@ipipirilodge.co.nz