Things to do / Activities

Whilst lots of our guests come to fly fish at Owen River Lodge, there is an endless supply of “non-fishing” things to do around the immediate property, the local area and the greater Nelson / Marlborough region.

You can relax in the knowledge that we absolutely caters for non-fishing guests. The ambiance, décor and understated elegance of the accommodation and facilities, and the total focus of the team at Owen River Lodge, ensure that all our guests have a sensational time.

In and Around the Lodge

Jacuzzi / Spa Pool

Owen River Lodge has a dedicated massage room and right next door is a stunning outdoor Jacuzzi / spa, tucked away in a private space, overlooking the Owen River. The Jacuzzi is a soothing 39 degrees Celsius/102 degrees Fahrenheit and is on & hot 24 hours a day… guests are welcome to use the Jacuzzi at any time that it suits them, after a tramp, after a day’s fishing, or just prior to retiring for the evening, looking for the southern cross in the beautiful night sky. The Jacuzzi seats four comfortably and has different seating positions, to ensure you can find a massaging jet to sooth all of those sore muscles, from your shoulders to your toes.

Massage

If you would like a relaxing day around the lodge, a massage can be booked the night before, for the following day, or for your return from your activities for the day. Our massage room is located beside the Jacuzzi and is private, air conditioned and close enough to the river to hear the sound of the water flowing over the rocks.

We have two very experienced, local masseuses who can offer relaxing or deep tissue one-hour massages. A half hour facial can also be booked and we use the beautiful local Nelson Honey Royal Nectar beauty products which is a combination of Manuka Honey and Bee Venom and a soothing blend of natural waxes and oils that boosts natural collagen production and smooths out skin imperfections. These products are also available to purchase through our small lodge shop.

Mountain Biking

Right outside the lodge, there’s a wonderful country laneway that meanders along the Owen River almost all the way to Mount Owen. It’s a perfect way to spend a sunny afternoon. The lodge has several modern mountain bikes for our guests to use free of charge.

Walking and Hiking

New Zealand’s ‘Great Walks’ are world-renowned. However, you don’t need to go to the Milford track in order to appreciate what New Zealand has to offer. Mount Owen towers above the surrounding landscape at the end of the Owen Valley. There are two walking tracks in and around the mountain.

Farm Tours

Our neighbors are wonderful “typical” Kiwi farmers. They are delightfully down-to-earth, friendly sheep and beef farmers. If your timing is right, you may even get to see the sheep being shorn. We can always arrange a “Tiki Tour” (Kiwi for"Let’s check out the farm”).

Relaxation

A very viable alternative - kick back and relax. With over two acres of gardens, there are oodles of places to relax in the lodge grounds.

Walking the Dog

Indi is always keen to take guests for a walk.

Swimming in the River

The lodge sits on the bank of the Owen River. There are several swimming holes for you to enjoy a dip in the river – why not take Indi with you!

In and Around Murchison

Rafting and Kayaking

The Murchison region is a world-renowned centre of white water rafting and kayaking. There are several rafting and kayaking companies operating in Murchison. We’d be pleased to arrange a half day to a full day rafting trip – from relaxed to adrenalin-packed.

Golf

The Murchison golf course is a pretty, 9-hole course situated on the banks of the Buller River, on the outskirts of Murchison. Ask any of the team for more details. We can also arrange club hire.

Walks in and around Murchison

There are several well-maintained walking tracks in and around Murchison. Further afield, there are some sensational, well-marked walking trails around Lake Rotoiti, located within a 20 minute drive of the lodge.

Buller Gorge Swing Bridge

Walk New Zealand’s longest swing bridge or catch the flying–fox across the Buller River, located down at the Buller Gorge.

Jet Boating

Thinking of a slightly bigger adrenalin rush? Experience the most exhilarating jet boat trip in New Zealand. Jet boats operate down at the Buller Gorge near the Swing Bridge.

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In and Around Nelson and Marlborough

Nelson (90 minute drive) is the sunniest place in New Zealand. It’s a vibrant town full of art galleries, museums, crafts people, restaurants, shopping, vineyards and a plethora of things to do and see.

Nelson is also home to the Regional Museum. It opened in 2007 and is well worth a visit.

The World of Wearable Art & Classic Car Museum is a must see for followers of fashion. Be sure to check it out.Nelson has some fabulous restaurants – why not spoil yourself and enjoy lunch by the sea.

Arts and Culture

New Zealand’s unique blend of Maori and Western culture has given rise to a fresh Pacific identity that breathes vibrancy. What is Kiwi culture? It’s about being innovative and independent, and celebrating diversity. There are more than 300 full–time artists and craftspeople throughout the Nelson region. They include ceramic artists, sculptors, glassblowers, painters, designers, woodworkers, jewellers and textile artists. We can arrange a tour of the regions galleries, artists and craftspeople.

Vineyard Touring

Spend a day touring the vineyards of Nelson/Moutere Hills or Marlborough. The lodge is located approximately 100 kilometres (60 miles) from either the Nelson/Moutere Hills or Marlborough vineyards. And, with an estimated 24 million vines growing in Marlborough alone, there’s plenty to see!

Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre

Just five minutes out of Blenheim and about 75 minutes drive from the lodge, this heritage aircraft museum is located at the Omaka Aerodrome. It currently houses one of the world’s largest collections of World War 1 aircraft and memorabilia, including those owned by acclaimed film director, Sir Peter Jackson.

Māori cultural experiences

Experience a traditional Māori welcome, sample Māori food and learn more about local Māori history and culture on a guided tour of the Omaka Marae near Blenheim. We can arrange this for you – just ask.

Chauffeur Drive

Don’t plan on having a car, or don’t particularly want to drive? Fear not we can arrange a driver to show you around the region.

Contact us

Dec 21 2021

Owen River was a welcome break from Covid at the end of 2021. My previous experience’ on the water’, was three days, so l was looking forward to fishing in the Upper South… Read more

Peter & Leanne : Auckland New Zealand: TripAdvisor

Apr 29 2021

My wife and I spent three wonderful nights at ORL and could not have been happier. The weather was challenging, but that’s fishing, and on the day we had with our guide Stefano,… Read more

Tony & Jay Auckland NZ : TripAdvisor

Awards & acknowledgements

Owen River Lodge NZ: “Fly fishing at its very best”

Ph: +64 3 523 9075 Address: Owen Valley East Road, Murchison, Nelson, South Island, New Zealand

Email: fish@elevenangling.com