This was our first time to Stewart Island so we weren’t sure what to expect, especially the weather. With regard to the weather it couldn’t have been much better. There was the inevitable wind but apart from that it was fine and moderately warm. At the Lodge the outside seating was sheltered from the wind but still allowed an almost uninterrupted view of Oban and the bay. Our room was spacious and the ensuite had everything would expec with regard to toiletries etc. Breakfast was on a self service continental basis but all laid out ready to choose whatever one felt inclined to partake of. The communal dining area and the lounge area all had good views, there was a shuttle service from the ferry terminal to/from the lodge. The staff connected with the lodge all had the time to chat, were very courteous and welcoming.

We travelled as 3 couples - each wanting our own room. So the lodge provided the best option as we had three rooms next to one another - and all identical. The space inside is great, complete with a walk in wardrobe (with space for luggage and a mini fridge and coffee making facilities) and then a good sized bathroom with bath and good sized shower. What's great about the lodge is the rooms have plenty of space and right outside the rooms is a long communal deck with spectacular views over Half Moon Bay and a couple of large outdoor tables. When staying here many years ago, when it was operated more as a lodge, we were offered canapes and pre-dinner drinks but these days with Real Journey's owning the lodge, this service is not offered. However the lounge area is available to all and there is a kitchen that guests can use. We availed ourselves of the facilities and made our own pre-dinner cocktails! There were plenty of glasses and other kitchen items for what we needed. In the mornings we had a continental Breakfast that our host Danny set up. It comprised a range of cereals, fruit, bagels (including gluten free ones along with gluten free bread), cheese etc. Also a range of three juices and plunger coffees and a range of teas.
The location of the lodge is great - a steep but not so long road to climb up and down when going into the town but that was fine. What we did find a little odd was that we were told our rooms would not be serviced "due to Covid?! Having stayed at loads of NZ accommodation over the past few months, this is the first time I have come across a lodge saying this - in a country where we have no community transmission. I think this is a cop out - and really doesn't reflect well on Real Journey's if they using this as an excuse for possibly a lack of staff to service rooms.

Our host at the lodge was Danny, and he greeted us when we arrived and told us about the lodge and our rooms. He was obviously new and a little nervous but lovely. We did also meet Lisa when we arrived - who most of the reviews mention here, but she was at the end of her shift - but she did ensure we had all the info we needed. We certainly did get the impression that many staff are "over it" -- an unrelenting throng of visitors to the island with no let up since NZ closed its borders and everyone headed to Stewart Island!

I would stay at Stewart Island Lodge again - great location and views!