Furneaux Lodge has reopened to visitors after an extensive six-month renovation, resuming its status as a popular destination for boaties and Queen Charlotte Track hikers.
The unveiling at the end of October showed off a newly renovated Howden House at the centre of the Endeavour Inlet property, in what owner Marlborough Tour Company describes as "a landmark project representing a significant investment."
The refurbishment of the main lodge building includes enhanced dining areas, guest facilities, a new commercial kitchen and contemporary interior design.
Built in 1903 by Scottish biscuit maker Patrick Grieve Howden as a family holiday home, the lodge has continued to play a role in creating holiday memories for generations, says Marlborough Tour Company managing director Barbara Burkhart.
With its old-style charm a key draw for visitors, Jen Armstrong, chief operating officer, says retaining classic features was important.
"We didn't want to lose the character that makes Furneaux Lodge so special. From the architraves and ceiling roses to the panelled walls and verandah fretwork, a lot of care went into preserving the details.
"In many cases, restoring or recreating these features required additional time and investment, but we believed those details were worth it".
Cade Gric, assets, compliance and projects manager, says local suppliers, contractors and craftspeople, such as Robinson Construction, were at the heart of the project and embraced the logistical challenges of its remoteness.
"Delivering a project of this magnitude in a remote location, within such a tight six-month timeframe, is an incredible achievement in itself."
Open day attendees welcomed the "big changes."
Paul Pentecost, who stayed at the lodge when he hiked the Queen Charlotte track "many years ago" says "they've done a good job. It's a big change."
He speaks fondly of old memories made in the bar and says he is impressed by the new timber work.
Sally Gardener, who visited in previous summers, says she always appreciated the lodge's classic character but is happy to see advancements.
"I think it's a great look. I always liked its sort of rustic charm and cosiness. They've kept a bit of that but it is mostly really modern now.
She adds that it's a positive sign of adaptability and embracing the future.
"I think it's quite important for businesses to show they're open to change."
