Ducks and Drakes - Ngā Motu / Sugar Loaf Islands Conservation Park

Ducks and Drakes is a guesthouse near Ngā Motu / Sugar Loaf Islands Conservation Park.

Location
Ngā Motu / Sugar Loaf Islands Conservation Park, Southern North Island, New Zealand, Australasia
Type
boutique_lodge
Coordinates
-39.058945, 174.080870
Price range
luxury
Phone
+64 6 758 0404
Email
[email protected]
Website
https://www.ducksanddrakes.co.nz
Activities
Spa
Amenities
Spa, Wi-Fi, Bar, Lounge, Library, Gym

PlnrScore: 30/100

Best Time to Visit Ducks and Drakes

The best months to visit Ducks and Drakes are January, February, November, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Good, temperature 18.84°C, rainfall 141.7mm, sunshine 11.9 hrs, humidity 77.7%
  • February: Good, temperature 18.72°C, rainfall 177.8mm, sunshine 10.9 hrs, humidity 78.7%
  • March: Poor, temperature 17.13°C, rainfall 185.6mm, sunshine 9.9 hrs, humidity 77%
  • April: Poor, temperature 15.94°C, rainfall 190.9mm, sunshine 8.9 hrs, humidity 79.8%
  • May: Poor, temperature 14°C, rainfall 299.8mm, sunshine 7.3 hrs, humidity 80.7%
  • June: Poor, temperature 12.78°C, rainfall 280.4mm, sunshine 6.7 hrs, humidity 79.9%
  • July: Poor, temperature 11.74°C, rainfall 281.3mm, sunshine 6.9 hrs, humidity 79.5%
  • August: Poor, temperature 11.51°C, rainfall 334.9mm, sunshine 7.8 hrs, humidity 79.8%
  • September: Poor, temperature 12.47°C, rainfall 248.6mm, sunshine 9.1 hrs, humidity 78.8%
  • October: Poor, temperature 13.86°C, rainfall 224mm, sunshine 9.4 hrs, humidity 80.9%
  • November: Good, temperature 15.65°C, rainfall 291.2mm, sunshine 10.5 hrs, humidity 80.7%
  • December: Good, temperature 17.57°C, rainfall 292.7mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 82%

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best way to experience the Ngā Motu / Sugar Loaf Islands from Ducks and Drakes?

We absolutely love taking one of the lodge's private boat charters for a morning exploring the islands. You can get incredibly close to the fur seal colonies and spot little blue penguins returning to shore. It's a truly intimate wildlife encounter that feels worlds away from the crowds.

Beyond the islands, what other unique activities does Ducks and Drakes offer?

While the islands are the star, we highly recommend indulging in the lodge's spa facilities after a day of exploring. Their signature massage uses local botanicals and is pure bliss. It’s the perfect way to unwind and soak in the serene coastal atmosphere.

What kind of dining experience can we expect at Ducks and Drakes?

The dining at Ducks and Drakes is exceptional, focusing on fresh, local New Zealand produce. We savored incredible seafood caught that very day, paired with exquisite regional wines. Expect refined, intimate dinners that feel both luxurious and deeply connected to the place.

When is the ideal time of year to visit Ducks and Drakes and the Sugar Loaf Islands?

We find the shoulder seasons, spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May), offer the most pleasant weather for exploring. The wildlife is active year-round, but these months provide comfortable temperatures for boat trips and enjoying the lodge's beautiful grounds without the peak summer crowds.

Given it's a luxury lodge, what should we budget for a stay at Ducks and Drakes?

Ducks and Drakes is definitely a luxury escape, so expect prices reflecting that exclusivity. We'd suggest budgeting upwards of $800-$1000 NZD per night, which typically includes gourmet meals and some activities. It’s an investment, but the unparalleled service and location make it entirely worthwhile.

Other Safari Lodges in Ngā Motu / Sugar Loaf Islands Conservation Park

Parks in Southern North Island

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for New Zealand

Travel advisory for New Zealand