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Queen Charlotte 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 and we have fishing rods and bait available for your use. We encourage people to practice conservation fishing - only taking enough fish for their dinner that night – the rest can be put back to live another day. There are rules about sizes and numbers of fish that can be caught and we are very firm about our guests adhering to them. Fishing is good off the nearby wharves or from the row boat.
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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