Welcome to Whakahoro

Located in the Ruapehu District on the banks of the Whanganui and Retaruke Rivers, and surrounded by Whanganui National park, Retaruke Station is an outdoor enthusiasts playground!

At Blue Duck Lodge, Pinecones Lodge  and Whio Lodge you are only steps away from countless activities and surrounded by the natural beauty of the Whakahoro Valley. Both lodges offer guests up-market accommodation in a secluded bush setting.

The Blue Duck Lodge Group is involved in several conservation projects, Blue Duck preservation and historical building restoration. Please go to our links page to find out more.

Blue Duck Lodge Group’s priority is to work with stakeholders in preserving the area's natural beauty while while educating guests about Blue Duck, local native species and the history of the Whakahoro Valley.

In 2008 Blue Duck Lodges was the winner of two categories of the Ballance Farm Environmental Awards, Habitat Improvement and Innovation Categories.

In 2007 Dan Steele (Host) was presented with a Conservation Award from the Department of Conservation. 

Photos by John Shorland ptnoah@xtra.co.nz or Dan Steele.