Tirohanga Nui is an architecturally designed Luxury Lodge located in Oamaru, Otago, New Zealand.
About Tirohanga Nui Lodge - Oamaru's Premier Luxury Retreat
Tirohanga Nui is an architecturally designed luxury lodge located in Oamaru, Canterbury, New Zealand, offering unparalleled elevated views and sophisticated hospitality.
Tirohanga Nui Lodge is a beautifully crafted, architecturally designed luxury accommodation overlooking the historic township of Oamaru, with breathtaking elevated views of the Pacific Ocean and surrounding Canterbury rolling hills. Blending modern architectural elegance with New Zealand's natural beauty, our lodge is appointed to the highest standard, offering a refined yet welcoming retreat for discerning travelers.
This is a place to slow down, breathe deeply, and savour the moment — whether you're here to relax and unwind, gather with colleagues for a corporate retreat, or celebrate life's special occasions. With its serene hilltop setting and sophisticated charm, Tirohanga Nui Lodge serves as the perfect venue for intimate weddings, executive business retreats, romantic getaways, or memorable celebrations with those who matter most.
Architectural Excellence in Oamaru
Our lodge showcases award-winning design by Virginia Barlow Architecture, seamlessly integrating with Oamaru's unique landscape. The building utilizes premium local materials and features custom design elements inspired by the surrounding Kakanui Mountain Ranges. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame the spectacular 270-degree views, while expansive outdoor decking areas on both eastern and western sides maximize the connection to our stunning natural environment.
Key Design Features:
- 270-degree panoramic views of harbour, ocean, and mountains
- Sustainable building practices using local materials
- Indoor-outdoor living with extensive decking areas
- Custom architectural elements inspired by local landscapes
- Premium appointments throughout all living spaces
Location & Surroundings
Perfectly positioned on South Hill in Oamaru, our luxury lodge offers:
- 5 minutes to Oamaru's famous Victorian Precinct
- 10 minutes to the Blue Penguin Colony viewing areas
- 25 minutes to the mystical Moeraki Boulders
- Easy access to Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail
- Close proximity to Waitaki Valley wine region
- Central location for exploring Canterbury's attractions
Perfect for Special Occasions
Intimate Weddings & Elopements
Our stunning location provides the perfect backdrop for intimate wedding ceremonies and celebrations. Exchange vows with the Pacific Ocean stretching to the horizon, surrounded by the natural beauty of Canterbury's coastline.
Corporate Retreats & Executive Accommodation
Ideal for business leaders seeking luxury accommodation during Oamaru conferences or strategic planning retreats. Our sophisticated environment and premium amenities create the perfect setting for productive meetings and team building.
Romantic Getaways & Celebrations
Whether celebrating anniversaries, honeymoons, or special milestones, our lodge offers the privacy and luxury that make every moment memorable.
My Journey
For many years, I dreamed of living in a home that overlooked the beautiful Oamaru Harbour. Today, that dream is a reality with my architecturally designed home, perched to take in breathtaking 270-degree views — from the Oamaru Lookout Bush Reserve to the east, the harbour to the north, and the snow-capped Kakanui Mountains to the west.
The angled balustrade, in the architectural design, is representative of bringing the mountains to the ocean. In Maori culture, the mountains and the ocean are deeply significant spiritual and cultural symbols. This connects the whakapapa (genealogy) of the people.
Tirohanga Nui is the embodiment of that dream. Its name is a tribute to my mokopuna (grandchildren). Tirohanga means “panoramic views” and Nui means “great” — together, Tirohanga Nui speaks to the expansive outlook and the deep love I hold for my whānau. The three suites are names after the bird that symbolises their individual personalities.
My journey here has been shaped by a diverse background — from tertiary studies in Business, to many fulfilling years in dairy farming, and a lifelong commitment to personal growth. These experiences have influenced everything about Tirohanga Nui: a warm, welcoming, and luxurious space where guests can relax, unwind, and feel cared for.
Tirohanga Nui reflects my values: kindness, generosity, a love for people, fine food and wine, and celebrating the very best of local products and sights. Whether you're here to explore, to celebrate, or simply to rest, I hope you find something truly special in this place.
Zoey, my friendly chocolate Cavoodle, and I look forward to welcoming you to our home and sharing the magic of Tirohanga Nui with you.
Experience Authentic New Zealand Hospitality
At Tirohanga Nui Lodge, we believe that luxury is found not just in beautiful surroundings and premium amenities, but in the warmth of genuine connections and the joy of shared experiences. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat, celebrating a milestone, or conducting business in Oamaru, we're here to ensure your stay becomes a treasured memory.
Discover a place where architectural sophistication meets heartfelt hospitality, where breathtaking views inspire meaningful moments, and where every guest is welcomed as whānau (family).
Contact us today to begin planning your luxury Oamaru experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Tirohanga Nui Lodge unique in Oamaru? Our combination of award-winning architecture, 270-degree views, personal hosting by Maree, and commitment to showcasing local Oamaru culture creates an unmatched luxury experience.
How far is the lodge from Oamaru's main attractions? We're perfectly positioned just 5 minutes from the Victorian Precinct, 10 minutes from penguin viewing, and within easy reach of all major Waitaki region attractions.
What type of groups does the lodge accommodate? We specialize in intimate groups seeking luxury experiences - couples, small families, executive teams, wedding parties, and friends celebrating special occasions.
Can you arrange local experiences and activities? Absolutely! Maree's extensive local knowledge and connections allow us to curate personalized experiences showcasing the best of Oamaru and Canterbury.
What dining options are available? Our fully equipped gourmet kitchen allows for self-catering, and we can arrange private chef services featuring local Waitaki Valley produce and wines.