FAQs
Can we leave luggage with you?
Yes, we have luggage storage that can only be accessed with a member of staff. Free of charge if staying at Kinloch, otherwise $1 per day.
Do you hire any gear for hiking?
No, we don’t, but we recommend Info & Track in Queenstown .
How long does it take to drive to Kinloch?
It’s 74kms from Queenstown and takes about 1-1.5hrs, depending on how many times you want to pull over and take photos!
What are the roads like?
The road from Queenstown to Glenorchy is one of the most beautiful drives in the world. The road is completely sealed to Glenorchy and around to the Dart River bridge. After the bridge the last 9kms are unsealed gravel but suitable for all vehicle types.
How do I get to Kinloch if I don’t have a car?
Between Oct-May there are regular scheduled buses from Queenstown to Glenorchy and Kinloch, a minimum of 2 are needed to run. Off season buses can be chartered. Bus companies that service the route are Glenorchy Journeys and Info & Track.
If coming from the airport one of the above companies may be able to pick you up, or you can take the public bus or taxi into Queenstown to meet the scheduled buses.
Queenstown Fishing operate boat charters between Glenorchy and Kinloch if you fancy a different way of getting here.
Please contact us for help arranging your transport.
What can I do if I don’t have a car in Kinloch?
There are so many options!
- Hire a bike and enjoy the local scenery – Glenorchy is 26kms away
- Glacier Burn hike starts 3kms from the lodge, an easy walk down the road and then a 3-4hr hike
- Lake Rere and the Greenstone/Caples tracks start 12kms from the lodge – we provide transport or you can bike there
- Use our track transport to explore the start of the Routeburn track
- Kayak on the lake with one of our tours during the warmer months
- Enjoy delicious food and drinks in our restaurant offering hearty meals as well as options for treats
- Explore the lakefront and beach area – you can even have a bonfire with the driftwood
- Hire a fishing rod and see if you can catch your dinner
- Relax and enjoy the hot tub with a view
- Watch movies in the TV room with free popcorn
- Find a new read in the book exchange
- Meet new people in the various common areas and play one of the board games available
If you’d like to do any of the local activities such as horse riding, zipling, scenic flights etc. we can arrange transport for you. See more about local adventures here.
If I want to bring my pet what are my options?
We love furry friends and they are welcome to spend time with you in the Wilderness rooms, however we ask that they kept out of our Heritage Lodge due to the age and shared natured of the building. They are welcome on the grounds and out the front of the restaurant. At night, if you’re staying in the Heritage Lodge, you can put them in your car or in a dog house if you have one you can bring.
What is provided in the rooms at Kinloch?
We provide all linens, towels, hot water bottles, blankets, a heater, ample plug sockets, bedside tables and lamps, and a chair or sofa. The bathrooms have hairdryers and toiletries.
Can I send you food parcels?
Yes, if you are doing lots of hiking, e.g. walking the Te Aroa, and you’d like to have a parcel waiting for you here you are very welcome to send one. Just make sure your name and arrival date are on the box and we’ll keep it safe for you. Our address is 862 Kinloch Road, Glenorchy, Otago, 9372.
Do I really have to book for dinner?
Yes as we need to plan carefully for dinner due to our remote location. Each evening meal is specially crafted and prepared that day with fresh ingredients. Please check the dining page to see what we’re offering nearer your stay as we change with the seasons and staffing levels.
Please note that during winter the restaurant may be closed by 6pm if we have no reservations.
What is the deal with Wifi?
It’s free!
How environmentally friendly are you?
We try very hard to reduce our impact on the beautiful environment around us. Click here to find out what we’re up to.
Can I camp at Kinloch?
There’s a DOC campground in front of the lodge, bookings are required, click here to book and find out more. There’s a long drop toilet and Lake Whakatipu is your water source.
If I camp, can I use the facilities?
Everyone is welcome in our restaurant to enjoy our offerings. The rest of the site is for the exclusive use of our in-house guests.
Can my friends whom are camping use the facilities?
They are welcome to join you in the restaurant but the rest of the site is for paying guests only.
What happens if I can’t make my reservation due to problems with the road to Glenorchy?
If the Glenorchy road is closed we will, where possible, offer safe alternative ways of getting here. These may include 4WD transfers from a given point or alternative times for arrival in the case of problems with the Glenorchy road. Where we are unable to offer an alternative, cancellations can be made without cost.
Is there a supermarket nearby?
We recommend shopping in Queenstown before coming up so you have a wide choice of goods. There are a couple of small general stores in Glenorchy and Countdown deliver to Glenorchy; we can arrange delivery from there to Kinloch.
Are there sandflies?
Like all the beautiful places on the West coast of the South Island we share our environment with sandflies. Please remember to bring your insect repellent with you, however if you don’t have any, we do also sell our favourite brands.
Our best advice during your stay is to:
- Cover yourselves in insect repellent first thing in the morning on any exposed skin – including fingers and toes! Our favourite brands include the natural Goodbye Sandfly, totally natural, and the non-toxic Skin Technology Picaradin.
- Wear light colours and cover any skin not treated with long sleeves, trousers and socks.
- Dine on lots of garlic and vegemite.
- If you are lucky enough, surround yourself with a band of penguins – much more delicious for sandflies than humans and terribly cute, though not normally found in the Wakatipu region.
