The Green Project

The Cottages are set in one of New Zealand’s most iconic locations - on stunning Lake Hayes. When we originally bought the property, the foreshore was overgrown with invasive crack willow which was impacting the health of the lake.

We have worked in close consultation and under agreement with The Department of Conservation over the last five years, and have fully funded the removal of vast areas of invasive crack willow along the edge of Lake Hayes.

The willow removal has recreated the original wetland and provided the raupo and other native plants the space to grow back along the water's edge.

In addition, we have also personally planted over 3,000 native plants to re-establish the native wetlands including carex, toi toi, flax, cabbage trees and tussocks.

It's such a pleasure to see the native birdlife return - Australasian crested grebes are nesting and successfully breeding; herons and kotare (kingfishers) are regularly spotted and even the extremely rare and shy marsh crake and royal spoonbill have been spotted for the first time in many years.

This area remains a work in progress and will continue to improve over time as we ensure that the crack willow does not return, and as we continue to plant more natives.

Our goal is to create a very special ecological wetland zone that all guests at The Cottages and users of the Lake Hayes trail can enjoy.

What our guests had to say

Exceptionally beautiful stay. Stunning cottage and location, with very thoughtful and generous hosts. We loved the local art that was showcased too - a vibrant and unique collection.

Michelle

Luxurious accommodation overlooking Lake Hayes We had a delightful five stay at the cottages. They are very well appointed with two equally comfortably bedrooms. A great kitchen if you want to cook and a cosy living area with a potbelly which gave out incredible heat. Amazing views over Lake Hayes.

JennyW3623

Amazing Gorgeous spot! Better than any hotel I've stayed at. The whole experience was really easy, the check in was seamless, the cottages are beautiful, every detail has been thought of. We can't wait to come back!

theyseemerollin

Awesome family holiday My family had a wonderful long weekend at the The Cottages. We loved the attention to detail and the special touches that were provided by Kirsty and Justin. The location is great and the views are stunning (including from the by the fire in the Pinot Pit). I...

hannahbJ3188BF

Perfection Words can’t describe how perfect our 3 nights were in the “Moke” cottage. From the breathtaking views, to the amazing interior and exterior design of the cottage. Hands down the most perfect accommodation we’ve ever stayed in. We’ll be back again...

Shaun A

Everything was perfect! We stayed here for 4 nights and it was amazing! Beautiful part of the area but still close to Queenstown, Arrowtown and the local wineries. The Lake Hayes walking path is right out the front of the cottages. There is an open fire, underfloor heating, divine throw rugs...

Kerry

Great base to explore We had a great stay in the very well designed cottages, that provided privacy and space. The location meant everything was super easy - direct access to the lake and loop track walk, a close drive to the most beautiful parts and restaurants of the Arrowtown and Queenstown...

Rich T

A Wonderful stay We had high expectations of the cottages from word of mouth recommendations and they did not disappoint. Very tastefully furnished, high quality everything throughout and fantastic attention to detail, a very luxurious stay and one we highly recommend.

Benna McC

Outstanding The location of Lake Hayes sells itself, but the accommodation was absolutely perfect in every way. Fastidiously clean, beautifully appointed from the linen, to the furnishings, and kitchen amenities, could not have asked for more. The personal outdoor hot tub facing the lake is...

Eve H

Delightful stay Great stay at the cottages at lake Hayes. Each of the cottages are tastefully done, great big sliding windows capturing the best views. Warm, lots of light, spacious bedrooms with ensuites. Perfect for family visits or friends. So close to Amisfield, Akarua, arrowtown and...

Woods295