Pohutukawa Lodge, Nelson

Nestled on the unspoiled shores of Pepin Island, Pohutukawa Lodge is a rare find: a true island escape that doesn’t ask you to leave convenience behind. Just a 20-minute drive from Nelson, the lodge is accessed via a scenic coastal road, no ferry, no boat, no fuss. Simply arrive, unlock the door, and let the island work its magic.

The entire main floor of the lodge is yours. Designed for groups of up to six, the space flows naturally from a well-equipped kitchen and dining room through to a generous living area, where two indoor fireplaces set the mood on cooler evenings. Step outside onto one of two private decks to breathe in the coastal air, fire up the BBQ as the sun dips behind the hills, or sink into the outdoor hot water bathtub beneath an open sky. This is island life at its most indulgent.

Three thoughtfully appointed bedrooms ensure every guest sleeps in comfort. The master bedroom features a king mattress, built-in closets, a skylight, and direct balcony access with sweeping ocean views, the kind you wake up to and simply don’t want to leave. The second bedroom offers a queen bed, a dresser, tall ceilings, and its own skylight, filling the room with natural light throughout the day. The third bedroom provides flexible sleeping arrangements, perfect for families or groups with varying needs.

Pohutukawa Lodge is fully equipped for a stay of any length. A full bathroom and a half bathroom serve the floor with ease, while the in-unit washer and dryer mean you can pack light and stay longer. A lockbox and key offer flexible, self-directed arrival, come when it suits you, settle in at your own pace.

Pepin Island is one of the Nelson region’s best-kept secrets, a place of quiet coves, native bush, and the kind of stillness that’s increasingly hard to find. Whether you’re here to explore the coastline, kayak the calm waters, walk the island tracks, or simply do nothing at all, the setting delivers on every level. And with Nelson’s restaurants, galleries, and the famous Abel Tasman National Park just a short drive away, you’ll never be far from the best the top of the South Island has to offer.

Pohutukawa Lodge is the perfect base for families, friend groups, and couples seeking a luxury coastal escape with genuine island character.