Is the spa included in the package?

Yes, guests receive a 45-minute session in either the spa or sauna as part of the package.

Can I customize the dinner menu?

The three-course dinner menu can accommodate dietary restrictions if informed in advance.

How far is the lodge from Taihape town?

River Valley Lodge is approximately a 10-minute drive from central Taihape.

Are pets allowed at the lodge?

Pets are not permitted to maintain guest comfort and lodge hygiene.

Is there Wi-Fi available on site?

Wi-Fi access is available in the lodge but may have limited speeds due to the rural setting.

What outdoor activities are nearby?

Guests can enjoy river fishing, horseback riding, and bush walks within a short distance from the lodge.

Weekend Lodging & Relaxation at River Valley Ventures | Lodging

Situated in the heart of the Manawatū-Whanganui region, River Valley Ventures offers a weekend retreat designed for adventurers who value comfort combined with access to rugged outdoor playgrounds. Located just outside of Taihape—a gateway town known for its rolling hills and native forest reserves—the River Valley Lodge sits amid natural serenity, offering a welcome contrast to the region’s more physically demanding activities.

River Valley Ventures’ Double Trouble package is a refined escape tailored for two. After a day traversing nearby trails or riding horseback along the riverbanks, guests return to a private ensuite room, where relaxation takes center stage. The lodge’s accommodation provides a perfect balance of rustic charm and modern amenities, ensuring a comfortable night’s sleep without sacrificing style.

A highlight of this experience is the three-course dinner featuring locally sourced ingredients paired with a glass of wine or craft beer. Whether it’s a romantic evening or a restful pause in an active itinerary, the meal serves as a satisfying conclusion to an adventurous day. Morning brings the chance to savor a leisurely breakfast chosen from an ample menu before heading back into the outdoors.

What truly distinguishes River Valley Ventures is its spa and sauna offerings, rare amenities in this part of New Zealand’s backcountry. These facilities invite guests to unwind deeply—muscles relaxed, mind clear—before reengaging with the region’s distinctive landscapes, including volcanic rock formations and native bush teeming with birdlife.

For visitors keen to blend outdoor pursuits with comfort, River Valley Ventures bridges that gap with authenticity. It’s a gateway to the rugged charm of Taihape’s wilderness, delivered with a hospitality standard that encourages return visits. Whether seeking adventure or downtime, this lodge provides a thoughtful base in one of New Zealand’s lesser-known but compelling destinations.