Solandra Lodge

We’ve been busy little beavers recently having felled all of the poplars close to the lodge and house. This certainly caused a fair bit of internal debate between Carol and I because they were magnificent trees. The decision really came down to safety. Poplars are nicknamed “Widow makers” due to their shallow roots and propensity for falling over, so, given the height of ours and proximity to the lodge and house, they had to go.
We’ve now had the excavator through to remove all of the roots and generally clean up that whole area, it’s all looking like a bit of a wasteland at the moment but a planting program will fix that in due course.

Well, we’ve finally completed our first set of merchandise using our shebikeshebikes brand and based around the Otago Central Rail Trail. Currently they’re for sale at Bits and Bobs in Omakau or you can purchase them from us direct. For more information see the Merchandise page at http://shebikeshebikes.co.nz/otago-central-rail-trail/t-shirts/

We’re happy to announce that renovations to the lodge are complete and we’ve had guests try out our new facilities, including hosting a small group planning conference over three days.

The renovations have included

- a refit of the downstairs bathroom to include a massive tiled corner bath with shower, tiled floor, underfloor heating

- upstairs we’ve created a massive 60 sqm open plan studio area that includes a king bed, toilet, lounge area, kitchenette, data projector and home theatre surround sound sound system, aircon and all fully repainted and recarpeted.  This is a fabulous area for entertainment, conferencing or just lying back and reading a great book while taking in the view.

Spring is here and with it comes the lambs. The boys have been given some orphaned lambs to raise and they’re doing a great job of feeding them milk, even Ryley our 18 mth old is into it. If you’ve seen a lamb feed from a bottle before then you’ll know that they’re really vigourous feeders, so Ryley lookings like a construction worker on the end of a jack hammer as he holds onto the feeding bottle. If you’re coming to say this summer then we’ll have some tame lambs for your children to feed, pet and run around with.

Given that rabbits are considered a Central Otago pest I couldn’t believe it when Carol turned up with the cutest ginger rabbit given to her by a local. So, it looks like I’ll be building a hutch this weekend. Should be fun!

We’re right in the middle of renovating some parts of the lodge. The downstairs bathroom has been completely redone with big triangular two person bath with shower, new wall and floor tiles and underfloor heating. The upstairs of the lodge is now being renovated with the addition of a toilet, kitchen sink, new paint job, ceiling mounted data projector, carpet and wooden flooring. All of the building and plumbing is in place and Ash the decorator is hard at work with the finishing work. We can’t wait to show you the photo’s.

Many people consider the Central Otago Rail trail as an autumn activity because that’s how it was first marketed. However, due to the continental climate of Central Otago there is much to see or experience in all of the seasons (yes, even the winter). What can you expect.

Spring

It’s here as a write this. The trees are in blossom and the colour green is returning to the landscape. You’ll see lambs everywhere and kids just love them.  You’ll feel like you’ve got the trail all to yourself and nature.

Summer

There is “lots” of sun and the wonderful dry heat of the Central Otago day followed by the cool of the evening that seems to stretch on forever it seems as you watch the sun finally set around 10pm. What better way could their be to appreciate some fine wine and evening conversation.  It’s a great time to ride the trail if you’re a sun worshipper and you enjoy the mellow light of a long evening.

Autumn

The rich golden hues take over the landscape as the yawns towards winter. Crisp mornings are followed by warm days make for a refreshing contrast.

Winter

Something special for the hardy, you’ll be rewarded with the clean white of the winter-scape and the spectacle of the hoar-frost. Its as if diamonds where dangling from the trees. You’ll need to be prepared but it’s worth it even if you only do a part of the trail.

The winter games are being hosted in New Zealand between the 22nd and 30th of August. Events are being held in Wanaka, Queenstown and Naseby and accommodation is sure to be tight. If you’re looking for accommodation in Naseby / Ranfurly for the Curling or Natural Luge and can’t find any then Solandra Lodge is definitely and option, we’re only 30 minutes away by car.

For more details about the Winter Games NZ see http://www.wintergamesnz.com