Ika Lodge, Turangi New Zealand has re-launched following extensive upgrading. Located on the banks of the world famous Tongariro River in the North Island town of Turangi the boutique lodge offers superior suites, two bedroom apartments along with the addition of a private three bedroom bungalow.

Ika Lodge is only 30 minutes away from both Taupo and the ski fields of Mount Ruapehu and the world famous Tongariro Crossing. Activities include fishing, mineral hot pools, horse riding, white water rafting, skiing, water skiing, hiking, mountain biking, volcanic tours, bird watching, deer hunting, pig hunting and small game hunting to name a few.

Guest are welcomed by the Owners and Hosts Margaret and Kenneth Toon who have lived and worked in various countries around the world but have always called New Zealand "home" and in recent years have had a holiday home on the banks of the Tongariro River.

In early 2008 when the opportunity to purchase Ika Lodge arose they felt that it provided the ideal opportunity to combine their love of meeting people, fishing, good food and the natural beauty of the Central North Island and returned home.

Breakfast is served daily in the dining room or in summer in the garden courtyard and lunches can be arranged to take away on your days’ adventure fishing or exploring the wonderful surrounds of the central plateau. Dining in the evening is a must at Ika Lodge, a glass of wine in the lounge in front of the roaring fire is then followed by fare that is true to the freshest ingredients the region has to offer.

Kenneth commented "Our menus all have a New Zealand flavour utilising the best of the country's produce"

The big draw card has to be the world famous trout fishing, being right on the river and the world famous Tongariro Crossing trek. Kenneth is more than happy to provide guests with assistance to enjoy a day’s fishing on the river or nearby lakes. If you do catch the big one then the lodge can smoke it using their special recipe or cook it to your liking for dinner that evening straight from the river.

Lodge Suites and the River Apartment start from NZ$135 per night including breakfast for two guests sharing and the Bungalow starts from NZ$165 per night for two guests sharing and includes a welcome pantry basket.

For more information email ikalodge@ika.co.nz or visit the website www.ika.co.nz