QUEEN CHAROLOTTE TRACK
Mahana is situated on the Queen Charlotte Track beside Punga Cove Resort, half way between Ship Cove and
Portage Bay/Torea Bay. Our lodge is a tranquil resting place on a beautiful sandy beach. Fast walkers
can walk from Ship Cove to Mahana in one day (27 km), those who like a slower pace can choose to spend a
night in one of the lodges at the Head of Endeavour Inlet and walk on to Mahana on the second day. For
more information about the Queen Charlotte Track and suggested itineraries
click here.
WALKING
Mahana makes a good base for day walking the Queen Charlotte Track. There are two very good day walks
from here along the Track which give you an overall experience of the Track. One leads from Mahana to a
look out point with stunning views – Eatwells Lookout – and takes about 4 hours return. The other goes
in the opposite direction along the Track. You can go to the Head of Endeavour Inlet (3 – 4 hours) and
catch a boat back across the Inlet to Mahana.
MOUNT STOKE WALK
Mt Stoke is the highest mountain in the area and the view from the top is absolutely amazing. However,
it is often in the clouds so check the weather before undertaking this climb. The track starts about 6
km along the road from Mahana and follows a route (signs on trees) rather than a formed track. From the
start of the walk it will take you about three hours to reach the top. If you are staying at Mahana and
do not have a car we will probably be able to take you to the start of the track by car. We will
certainly give you directions and advice.
KAYAKING
In calm weather, the clear waters of Endeavour Inlet are wonderful to explore in a kayak. You will find
secluded coves and beaches, hundreds of water birds, eagle rays, and many shell fish and star fish. You
can go out for an hour or two, or you can just have a quick paddle around the coast. We have kayaks and
a row boat for the use of our guests – free of charge. We supply life jackets and will also give you
basic advice and safety instructions.
FISHING
There are many fishes in the waters around Mahana. Currently there is a ban on taking Blue Cod which is
by far the most common fish. This is a conservation measure and will remain in place for four years
(until 2012). However, there are other good eating species of fish available although they are more
difficult to catch. If you have a particular interest in fishing, please let us know and we will
endeavour to help you.
GARDENS
Mahana Lodge and Homestead are set in 40ha of native forest and established gardens. You are free to
explore these gardens, but pride of place is our extensive spray free fruit and vegetable gardens. Every
afternoon we invite those guests who are interested to help John harvest the produce for that evenings
home cooked dinners. At the same time, you can meet our beautiful free range hens who are supplying the
breakfast eggs.
BEACHCOMBING
There are many treasures - shell fish, crabs, unusual stones and shells, strange shaped driftwood etc –
which are to be found on the beach and around the rocks at low tide.
SWIMMING
Don’t forget to pack your bathers. The beach at Mahana is sandy and safe – and it is never crowded.
GLOW WORMS
There is a magical glow worm grotto at Mahana only about 20 metres from the Lodge. Take a walk after
dark, follow the path and find yourself gazing at a myriad of “stars” twinkling at you across the
stream. We have information on the fascinating life cycle of the glow worm available at the Lodge.
RESTING
This is one of the most worthwhile activities at Mahana. We like to think of it as “feeding the soul”.
We have an extensive range of books, games and puzzles for you to enjoy. Spend the afternoon in a
hammock with a good book, or lie back in one of our loungers on the beach listening to the waves and the
birds. Or if it is wet, sit by the log fire in our comfortable lounge looking out over Endeavour Inlet
and watch the storm clouds and the rain stirring up the water.
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