Surprising Global Travel Stories at Paramata Lodge near Hokitika.
Welcome to Paramata Lodge, a luxurious haven nestled in the heart of Westland, New Zealand. Just a short drive from Hokitika and Ross, our lodge is more than just a place to stay—it’s a place to be inspired and connected through the shared experience of travel, even as you create a new special travel memory.
A Place Filled with Stories
Paramata Lodge is beautiful and comfortable but also packed with secret stories: artworks and historic relics, particularly from Nepal. The connection with Nepal started with your host Kathy’s father, who befriended a Nepalese Colombo Plan student living nearby. This friendship blossomed, bridging the gap between New Zealand and Nepal, and sowing the seeds for a lifelong bond between Kathy’s family and their friends in Nepal.
A Unique Bond with Nepal
Chandra, the initial Nepalese friend, sent his second son, Sachin, to New Zealand to study hospitality at the local Polytechnic. During his stay, Sachin lived with Kathy, who also worked at the Polytech. This period not only strengthened their familial bond but also marked the beginning of a cultural exchange that would leave a lasting impression on Paramata Lodge. Sachin went on to study helicopter engineering in the USA and married a Nepalese woman, bringing his own story full circle.
Artworks that Tell a Tale
As you explore Paramata Lodge, you’ll find Tibetan handmade rugs in two of our guest rooms, and a traditional Hindu God, Vishnu in brass presiding over the fireplace mantle in the lounge. These treasures, along with a finely carved wooden doorbell and other Kathmandu temple-style artworks, were gifted by Sachin and his family, who belong to the Newar caste, traditionally known for their intricate wood carvings and their contributions to culture, art and literature. These exquisite pieces perfectly complement resident artist Neil’s New Zealand contemporary style wooden artworks and garden sculptures, creating a harmonious blend of cultures and artistry.
A Journey Through the Mountains
Kathy’s connection to Nepal is deeply personal. She first visited Nepal in 1974, embarking on an overland journey from Australia that saw her spending three months exploring the mountainous terrain of Pokhara before continuing her travels through Europe. The Nepal of those days was a different place, yet the kindness and generosity of the Nepalese people left an enduring mark on her heart.
Sharing Stories by the Fireside
The mountains, the scenery, and the lovely people of Nepal are celebrated in the artworks that adorn Paramata Lodge. These ornaments often inspire stories from our guests, who share their travel adventures by the fireside. Kathy listens eagerly, fostering a warm and welcoming environment where experiences and memories are shared and cherished.
At Paramata Lodge, we invite you to become part of this ongoing story. Come, share your adventures, and create new memories in a place where the beauty of the surroundings is matched only by the richness of the stories they inspire. We look forward to welcoming you to our little corner of the world, where every stay is a journey in itself.
