Nestled above Paterson Inlet, Observation Rock Lodge offers privacy, panoramic sea views and a truly personal experience at New Zealand’s southernmost luxury lodge and B&B. Our guests enjoy gourmet breakfasts and dinners, exceptional service, native gardens alive with birdlife, and special treats such as the outdoor bath under the stars or bush sauna. Just minutes from Oban yet surrounded by peaceful forest, the lodge feels like your own secluded nature retreat — with sunrise, sunset, the stars and even the Southern Lights sometimes visible from your room.
All our rooms are facing towards sunset and the exact direction for a potential Aurora Australis Southern Lights – if we are lucky enough to have one you could see it from your bed.
Find Your Perfect Room
Room 1 – Thule View
A peaceful room with its own bathroom (close by but not ensuite) and deck — ideal for solo travellers or couples who enjoy comfort, sea and native bush views.
Room 2 – Inlet View
A generous room with sweeping views over Paterson Inlet, complete with a large private deck and an outdoor bath. Available as B&B or Lodging Deluxe.
Room 3 – Starlight Loft
Our newest and most elevated space, offering spectacular views, a private balcony and stunning sky panoramas — sunrise to sunset and even the Aurora Australis on clear nights. Available as B&B or Lodging Deluxe.
Planning Your Stay
Our rates are consistent throughout the season, with the Bed & Breakfast option available for all rooms and our Lodging Deluxe option for Inlet View and Starlight Loft. We generally recommend a stay of 3 or 4 nights to explore Stewart Island and fully enjoy the lodge – though shorter visits may be possible depending on availability.
We respond to every enquiry personally to make sure your visit is exactly what you’re looking for. Just send us a message or give us a call, and we’ll happily check availability, answer questions and help you choose the room and option that suits you best.
A Look Inside the Lodge
Travel blogger Rish visited us in winter and captured the lodge in a video tour. His walk-through shows the rooms, the views and the atmosphere of Observation Rock Lodge just as our guests experience it.
What You Can Look Forward To
The Setting
A peaceful nature retreat with sweeping views and abundant wildlife.
- Close to everything, but quiet and away from the busy bay
- Secluded atmosphere with no close neighbours
- Panoramic views over Paterson Inlet
- Private gardens blending into native forest
- Native birds visiting … kaka, tui, kereru, bellbird and fantail … and kiwi at times!
- Bird watchers and photographers paradise
- Nature as the best programme – views, wildlife and stars
- Dark sky sanctuary (no street lights close by)
The House
The Lodge features an elegant blend of European design, antique and nature style.
- Stunning high ceiling from native Rimu tumber
- Spacious guest lounge with floor-to-ceiling views
- Your host lives not in the same house but in the cottage next door
- Instead of pets you will find a prolific birdlife, trustful and coming very close
Guest Services and Amenities
Everything you need for a comfortable and seamless stay.
- Taxi pick-up and drop-off at ferry or flights
- Complimentary WiFi
- Tea and coffee facilities
- Luggage storage for early arrivals
- Books and magazines on local history and nature
- Personalised hosting and local tips
Cancellation Policy
As a small lodge with limited rooms and bookings made well in advance, we kindly ask for your understanding regarding our cancellation terms.
- More than 12 weeks before arrival: 90% refund
- 8–12 weeks before arrival: 50% refund
- Within 4 weeks of arrival: no refund
If we are able to re-book the cancelled dates, a full refund will be provided. We strongly recommend travel insurance to protect against unexpected changes to your plans.