Taking inspiration from the place where alternative and rock ’n’ roll lifestyles meet, the new owners of a 1980s motel have created a laidback retreat. Its 78 rooms have been overhauled by architect Allistar Cox to create a range of accommodation, from four-star suites to private dorms complete with bunk beds. Each rooms has a kitchenette, while beds are swathed in pure merino blankets topped with cushions fashioned from recycled kilims. Curtains created from Italian-made wool army blankets cover picture windows, although most guests will pull them right back; the views over Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables are nothing short of, well, remarkable. With a focus on nature and sustainability, there is also a yoga studio, wholefoods restaurant utilising produce foraged from the region and the biodynamic vegetable garden, a bar serving natural wine from independent local vineyards and a conversation pit where storytelling nights are held.
