Eleven Cedar Lodge Pre-Arrival Guide

ELEVEN CEDAR LODGE

PRE-ARRIVAL PLANNING GUIDE

WELCOME

We are thrilled that you have chosen Eleven® and Cedar Lodge for your upcoming trip! The lodge’s 30+ year history of heli-fishing, access to endless adventures, and its breathtaking setting in the Makarora Valley make for an experience that is truly unlike any other!

At the lodge, our wonderful staff and guides are looking forward to meeting you and introducing you to a renowned array of new experiences. When you’re not out exploring the South Island’s natural splendors, you can hang out, relax, eat and drink in your home away from home.

We strive to create memories that you, your family, and your friends can share for a lifetime. We believe that the connections and relationships that our guests foster among themselves, with our guides and crew, and with the surrounding natural environments are the most valuable intangibles in the world.

- The Experience Team

ABOUT THE PROPERTY

LODGING OVERVIEW CEDAR LODGE

Cedar Lodge lies along the banks of the Makarora River and is bound by the majestic Mount Aspiring National Park. Established in 1979, the lodge includes four guest rooms, a lounge, and a dining area. Rooms are double occupancy with two twins or a king bed with all the modern conveniences including in-room Wi-Fi.

Built with the stunning New Zealand landscape in mind, our rooms are designed to complement the serene natural surroundings of the South Island. All four en suites feature furnishings that are carefully curated to build on the beauty of the landscape and create a tangible feel of the outdoors within the interior surroundings.

We invite you to relax in the comfort of our lodge and spend your days fly fishing and adventuring through the most pristine areas of the South Island. In this peaceful setting in the heart of New Zealand, you’ll eat delicious farm-to-table inspired meals, sleep like a baby, and enjoy true Kiwi hospitality.

PROPERTY DETAILS

• 5-acre property grounds along the Makarora River

• Max capacity: 8 people

• Suitable for anglers of all ability levels

• 4 double occupancy rooms with king or double beds and en suite bathrooms

• South Island views from every room

• Helicopter fly out angling and heli-assisted hiking

• Helicopter concession to Mt. Aspiring National Park

A DAY IN THE LIFE RELAX AND ENJOY

One of the best things about your stay at Cedar Lodge is that it is customized to meet your needs. Anglers and non-anglers alike will find their share of adventure amidst the gin clear rivers and towering peaks surrounding Cedar Lodge.

Begin each morning with a chef-prepared breakfast made with local ingredients from the fruitful hills of the Central Otago region. After breakfast, set out to explore this stunning corner of the South Island. Anglers will hop on the heli to reach a remote glacial river to cast for wild trophy trout. Adventure enthusiasts can take their pick of hiking, canyonering, mountain biking, or even bungee jumping in the nearby adrenaline hubs of Queenstown and Wanaka. If a more relaxing day is your style, vineyards and wineries stretch as far as the eye can see. Whatever your activity, our team will be prepared with lunch, snacks, and beverages to keep you fueled.

After the day’s activities, it’s time to return to the comfort of the lodge for some R&R. Simply relax on the beautiful property or pick up the golf clubs and hit some balls. For dinner, enjoy South Island lamb paired with a beautiful New Zealand wine in true kiwi style.

ADVENTURE OVERVIEW

ANGLING

New Zealand trout are wild. Both rainbow and brown trout reside in the pristine waters near Cedar Lodge. Here, it’s not unusual to see both species occupying the same pool or run. Almost all of Cedar’s fishing requires the angler and fishing guide to stalk the fish, locate their target, carefully prepare for the presentation of the fly, and anxiously anticipate the strike. Cedar Lodge’s fly out helicopter concession to Mt. Aspiring National Park affords anglers total mobility to access remote waters where the lack of other fishermen permits unencumbered angling and numerous fishing options.

While New Zealand trout are not easy to catch and can be quite spooky, long casts are not the norm. Most casts are made between 25 to 45 feet. Our fly fishing guides will carefully position and coach anglers so that they can make an optimal presentation. While a 10+ lb trophy trout is a rarity, guests will fish for trout that are consistently in the 3 to 6 lb range. And from time to time, some are fortunate enough to land the “big one.”

Nowhere else in the world can large, wild, rainbow and brown trout be caught on a dry fly in such a pristine environment. With so many varying beats of water to explore there is something for everyone at Cedar Lodge. If your rock hopping days are behind you, the South Island’s wide-open river valleys offer easy walks and comfortable fishing. For the fit angler, rugged beats are on the menu as well. Using our helicopter we’ll find the best option for fishing success each day. Our pilots and guides collaborate each morning to find the best water for the day.

ELEVEN ANGLING GUIDES

Our New Zealand fly fishing guides are experts. They focus on instruction when needed and have the knowledge and experience to give you the best chance to catch New Zealand trophy trout. Though the fishing here can be challenging, Cedar’s guides put you in the best position to optimize your chances every day.

ADVENTURE

NEW ZEALAND TROUT

Cedar Lodge offers prime access to some of the world’s most striking outdoor areas. The surrounding rivers and mountains provide the ultimate landscape for adventure, and our team will arrange your activities entirely to your interests. From wine tours and sightseeing trips to a slate of high-octane activities, Cedar Lodge has something for everyone.

Hiking (or ‘tramping’ as the Kiwis call it) in the picturesque Mount Aspiring National Park is a local favorite. Our helicopter can provide unparalleled access to the most scenic trails on the South Island, where guests can summit peaks with sweeping views of the Southern Alps.

Those seeking more of an adrenaline rush can head over about two hours to Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand. Here, the adventurous can skydive, bungy jump, or paraglide in this beautiful, lakeside town.

FISHING IS CHALLENGING, BUT CEDAR’S EXPERT GUIDES WILL PUT YOU IN THE BEST POSITION TO CATCH FISH.

SUMMER ADVENTURES

For the ultimate in variety, Cedar Lodge offers guided angling experiences and a multitude of guided adventure experiences. Please connect with the Experience Team to book any of the below fishing-alternative adventure offerings.

HIKING

Experience the wildest, most remote peaks and rivers of New Zealand with a variety of private hiking and heli-hiking excursions. In these hard-to-reach landscapes, you can’t help but feel a sense of deep serenity as you venture along our scenic trails by foot.

• Wilderness Experience: Fly over Mount Aspiring National Park to the headwaters of the hanging Siberia Valley. There, you’ll hike for three hours to a jet boat pick up and zip down the Wilkin River back to the lodge.

• Jumboland Experience: Fly into the heart of the Southern Alps to the headwaters of the Wilkin Valley. Then, hike for six hours along a trail through the bush to a jet boat pickup and speed down the river back to the lodge.

• Makarora Valley Experience: Fly over mountain ridges and alpine lakes to the headwaters of Boundary Creek. Hike to the valley ridge with fantastic views over Lake Wanaka, then down to the road where your ride home awaits.

• Mckerrow Ridge: Spend the day on a leisurely ridgeline hike looking out over the stunning features of the Southern Alps. When you’re ready, your helicopter ride back to the lodge is just a radio call away.

MOUNTAIN BIKING

Feel the wind on your face as you cruise downhill through backcountry single track and along lakeside trails. We provide short drives, flights, and chairlift rides to many of the best trailheads for your convenience.

• Local Trails: Let our guide take you on some of the best local trails, chosen specifically for your experience level. Each trail is less than a 50-minute drive of the lodge. | Half Day or Full Day

• Heli-Accessed Trails: Fly into New Zealand’s gorgeous backcountry where intermediate riders can enjoy a day’s track ride. A boat waiting in the lake at the end of your trail will take you back. | Full-Day Tour

• Heli-Accessed Downhill: We’ll drive you down to the nearby town of Wanaka where you’ll take a helicopter to some of the best intermediate downhill riding available in the region. | 6 hours

• Wanaka Mountain Bike Parks: Wanaka has two mountain bike parks that offer amazing trails for intermediate riders. Access to the trailheads is easy with chairlift and pedal-powered options.

HORSE TREKKING

Watch the natural beauty of New Zealand unfold before your eyes as you explore the high country by horseback in this most primitive form of exploration that’s suitable for all experience levels.

• Central Otago High Country Trek: Drive down into the Central Otago region where you’ll begin a scenic horse trek into the high country. Instruction and safety equipment are available, making this a great choice for any skill level.

• Cardrona Trek: This captivating adventure allows riders to traverse the breathtaking landscapes of the Southern Alps. From winding mountain trails to expansive high-country meadows, you’ll feel the thrill of exploration in a beautiful setting.

JET BOATING

Zip along the surface of shallow rivers with incredible speed and splashes. It’s a spectacular way to take in the scenery while getting your adrenaline fix.

CANYONEERING

Jumping, swimming, abseiling, plus helicopters and jet boats—this is canyoneering for the adventurous. Explore the depths of the rainforest’s sculpted rock passages and emerald pools with expert guides who will show you the ropes.

• Cross Creek | Nov 1–April 15: An experience for beginners with an adventurous side, this day includes all the elements of canyoneering and offers a great opportunity for newbies to get a thorough feel for the sport. | 6 hours

• Robinson Creek | Oct 15–April 8: This dramatic canyon is ideal for those with intermediate skill levels. You’ll get a real taste of wilderness canyoneering on this adventure, which emphasizes abseiling over jumping. | 8 hours

• Imp Grotto | Oct 1–April 30: Looking for stunning views while you play? Imp Grotto provides the perfect opportunity to jump, swim and abseil through a beautiful stone scape canyon. | 8 hours

• Wai-rata Heli Canyon | Oct 15–March 31: Welcome to your personal action movie. This trip combines helicopters, canyoneering, and jet boats; providing those with advanced skill levels a truly actionpacked day. | 8 hours

• Wilson Creek | Dec 1–April 5: This canyon is less about sliding and jumping and more about adventure and accomplishing your mission. Once you enter, there’s no exiting until the end. | 8 hours

GOLF

Play a quick nine holes with our on-property pitch, or take a short ride to one of the best-rated greens in the region, fortuitously located in Pinot Noir country for those in need of a post-game refreshment.

• Lodge Golf: Use our on-property pitch for a quick three holes. You can also pick up a lesson from our trainer to improve your swing. Equipment is available on site.

• Wanaka Golf: Take a 40-minute drive to the picturesque Wanaka Golf Course, a well laid out course with scenery so breathtaking, even a bad game is a good game.

• Cromwell Golf: An hour away is Cromwell Golf Course, laid out in interior links style with highly rated greens. This champions course is located in Pinot Noir country, perfect for a post-game tasting.

HELICOPTER SCENIC FLIGHTS

Waste no time getting to the good views. As soon as you lift up, you’ll be immersed deep in the Southern Alps and Mount Aspiring National Park with a high alpine landing that showcases the scale of the land around you.

• 50-Minute Flight: Experience nearly an hour of breathtaking views while flying deep into the Southern Alps. You’ll get up close to the majestic peaks for an unforgettable encounter.

• 30-Minute Flight: Get a unique perspective of the region’s stunning landscape in this 30-minute flight. Soar over hanging valleys and marvel at the network of rivers winding below you.

WINE TOURS

This is Pinot Noir country. The winery and vineyards near Cedar Lodge are world-renowned, and there are countless options for tastings. Our favorites? Rippon, Maude and any spots in the Gibbston Valley.

• West Coast Discovery: Experience the drive over the Southern Alps via Haast Pass to the rugged West Coast to get a glimpse of New Zealand’s vast wine-making landscape. Take breaks to explore small walks and waterfalls along the way.

• Local Wine Tours: Take a 40-minute drive to Wanaka where three excellent vineyards and tasting options are available for a relaxing day out.

• Regional Wine Tours: Take an hour drive from the lodge to the heart of Pinot Noir country where you’ll visit three of the region’s top vineyards for tastings.

WEST COAST ADVENTURES

This remarkable flight takes guests to otherwise inaccessible locations for a look at untouched New Zealand. Fly over Milford Sound, ancient glaciers, the fjord’s ice-carved cliffs, and wildlife in their natural habitat.

LAKE WANAKA ACTIVITIES

Navigate the crystal clear waters of Lake Wanaka with the Southern Alps as your backdrop. With kayaking and stand up paddle boarding on the menu, the activity choices are as active as you make them.

• Kayaking: Take a leisurely paddle along Lake Wanaka’s shoreline or pick up some speed riding New Zealand’s second largest river.

• Stand Up Paddle Boarding: Take in the natural beauty around you as you explore the flat waters of Lake Wanaka. Relax and enjoy the peace or pump up the pace for a full body workout.

MUSEUM AND CULTURAL TOURS

In a country rich with history and natural beauty, there’s plenty of culture to immerse yourself in. Spend an afternoon wandering a museum, browsing local goods at a lavender farm, or admiring historic architecture from the town’s gin distillery.

• National Transport and Toy Museum: Welcome to a collector’s paradise. What began as a private personal collection now includes over 650 vehicles, 20 aircrafts, 60,000 toys, and thousands more fun and unexpected items.

• Lavender Farm: Experience all-encompassing aromatherapy at the nearby lavender farm. There, vibrant purple hillsides serve as the backdrop to a shop selling locally sourced and crafted honey, oil, and soaps.

• Cardrona Hotel and Gin Distillery: A charming historical landmark is just up the road at Cardrona Hotel. Admire the rose covered vines crawling up the exterior as you sip a gin cocktail from the distillery across the street.

FOOD & DRINK

FOOD

New Zealand’s weather and green rolling hills offer an ideal climate for growing fruits and vegetables, as well as raising livestock. Fruits such as apricots, peaches, nectarines, and of course, kiwifruit, ripen on the vine, while sheep graze in the pasture next door. As an island nation, New Zealand takes full advantage of the fact that it is surrounded by the Pacific Ocean, and fresh seafood such as oysters, crayfish (lobster), and tuna, is plentiful. This bounty of local produce and seafood inspires the nation’s cuisine. Local favorites include roast lamb, fish and chips, and savory meat pies. And don’t miss out on a Hangi! This dish comprised of slow cooked meat and vegetables has been a Maori tradition on New Zealand for thousands of years. For dessert, try hokey pokey ice cream - New Zealand’s favorite ice cream flavor.

DRINK

Wine is perhaps the beverage that New Zealand is best known for, as the country boasts several world-renowned wine regions including Marlborough, Hawke’s Bay, and Central Otago. New Zealand produces wine of all types, but is most famous for its Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir. At Cedar Lodge, our in-house dinners are paired with a local wine each night.

In addition to making delicious wine, New Zealanders also love beer. The country is home to over 150 breweries, including a wide range of craft ales. Pilsners are the most popular in this area, and many craft breweries are located in nearby Wanaka. We have a wide selection of New Zealand beer at Cedar Lodge with your name on it.

WEATHER AND HOW TO PACK

GEOGRAPHY AND CLIMATE

New Zealand is known as the Land of the Long White Cloud for good reason, and travelers should be prepared for any and all weather types. Summertime on the South Island means long sunny days with the potential for rain. Thanks to a very minimal amount of air pollution, the UV rays are quite a bit stronger here than in other countries. The average temperatures are very pleasant, ranging from about 10°C (50°F) to 21.1°C (70°F) and rarely exceeding 30°C (86°F).

The best approach in terms of clothing is to use a layering system. Think synthetic, sweat-wicking, sun-protecting long sleeves, an insulating fleece or puffy midlayer, and a wind and rain repellant outer layer. Because mornings and evenings can be chilly, long pants and quick access to these layers are a must. Just as importantly, don’t forget your swimsuit!

Robust footwear and functional accessories go a long way in New Zealand. We recommend comfortable shoes, hiking shoes/boots, shoes for wet wading, ball caps, sun buffs, fingerless gloves, and a light backpack. The highestquality polarized sunglasses are mandatory, and durable, waterproof luggage is encouraged. Finally, make sure to throw in your personal items: SPF 50+ sunscreen, insect repellent, toiletry kit, prescription medicine, reading glasses, cell phone and charger.

SUGGESTED PACKING LIST

The following is a travel checklist to use as a guideline while preparing for your trip. Please speak with your Experience Team about additional packing questions.

TRAVEL LIST

Passport and copy of passport

Wallet with cash and card

Prescriptions and medication

Cell phone and charger

International adapter

Camera and charger

Batteries for devices

Personal toiletries

CLOTHING & GEAR LIST

Lightweight, packable rain jacket and rain pantsGore-tex recommended

Wide brimmed sun hat and baseball cap for sun protection

Quick-dry, long-sleeved shirts and pants

Sun-protective long-sleeved shirt or hoody

Fleece and/or puffy vest and jacket

Gloves - ski gloves and thin gloves

Underwear

Socks - thin hiking socks and warmer, thicker socks

Comfy clothes for the lodge

Warm layers for chilly summer nights

Bathing suit

Athletic shoes

Comfy shoes for the lodge - sandals, clogs, slip-ons

Sun mask or buff*

Sunscreen 50+ SPF*

Insect repellent*

Lip balm*

Small day pack*

*Provided by Eleven, but guests are welcome to bring their own, should they prefer.

FISHING LIST

Polarized sunglasses and croakies

Comfortable wading/walking boots*

Fly rods: 5/6 weight rod*

Fly reels and spools*

Leaders*: 10-14ft 4x & 5x

Tippet*: 3x & 4x

Pliers, hemostats, and snips*

Dry flies*: size 10-14 terrestrials and common dry flies

Nymphs*: size 10-18 brown stoneflies, beaded/ nonbeaded pheasant tails, and green & sand caddis

Streamers*: size 6-12 common streamer patterns

Guide lanyard

Optical cloth and cleaner

Chest pack or fanny pack

*All of this equipment is available from the lodge as part of your stay or for purchase through the lodge retail. Guests are also welcome to bring their own gear and equiment, should you wish.

WHAT ELEVEN PROVIDES

• All fishing gear including rods, reels, lines, flies, leaders/tippets, waders, wading shoes, and waterproof dry bag

• Light backpack for hiking and other excursions

• Water bottle

• Hat

• Buff

• Sunscreen and insect repellent

• Premium bath amenities

• Laundry service

NEED TO KNOW

CURRENCY EXCHANGE

The New Zealand dollar (NZD) is the official currency of New Zealand. Check the exchange rate for your local currency before you depart for your trip.

CASH AND CREDIT CARDS

Though credit cards are widely accepted throughout New Zealand, it is always a good practice to carry some of the local currency.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Most travelers will need to obtain a NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) visa before they travel. You can request the NZeTA online at this website (https:// nzeta.immigration.govt.nz/). You will need a valid passport to enter New Zealand. We recommend that all travelers make copies of their passports and keep them separately. Please inquire with the Experience Team if you have any questions about entry requirements to New Zealand.

LOCAL LANGUAGE

New Zealand has three official languages: English, Māori, and New Zealand sign language. English is the most widely spoken language in New Zealand.

LOCAL TIMEZONE

New Zealand runs on New Zealand Standard Time, which is (GMT+12). There is only one time zone in New Zealand.

ELECTRICAL CURRENT

Throughout New Zealand, the power sockets are type I. The standard voltage is 230 V and the standard frequency is 50 Hz. U.S. guests will require a voltage converter for 110 volt devices. You will also need an adaptor for U.S. and European plugs. Please bring both converters and adaptors for devices not already equipped. Most laptop computers and cell phones have chargers with converters, so for those you only need the adaptor.

FISHING LICENSE

Each guest will be required to hold a non-resident full season license. You can purchase this prior to arrival at www.fishandgame.org.nz or we can arrange this at the lodge on arrival. You will be fishing the Otago area while fishing with us. This license will allow you to fish anywhere in NZ except for the Taupo Region. This license will be used to purchase the daily designated waters license that is required to fish some of the fisheries we use from the lodge. At a cost of $40 per person per day. This will be completed by the lodge team on a daily basis, once the daily itinerary is confirmed. You will be charged any fees incurred at the end of your stay.

GRATUITIES AND TIPPING

Tipping the Eleven staff, guides, and representatives is always optional, but if you decide you would like to, here are a few standard courtesies. All guide and hospitality tips should be paid to the Lodge Manager or Experience Manager. It will be divided appropriately between the various parties.

General Tipping Guidelines: Tipping in New Zealand is truly merit based, and is not usually expected or obligated. If you would like to leave a tip at a restaurant, a few dollars or 10% of the final bill should suffice.

RECOMMENDED TRAVEL INSIGHTS

AIR TRAVEL

SPECIAL REQUESTS

Please be sure to fill out the guest information form, which you have received separately via email, and other correspondence. Most importantly we need to know if you have any food allergies, physical limitations, or medical needs that the Lodge Manager and staff should know about ahead of your arrival. If you need another copy of the questionnaire or would prefer to share this information over the phone, please contact us.

Also, please share any special requests such as: favorite food, wine, or alcohol; if you are celebrating a birthday or anniversary; any requests related to the type of fishing you prefer, or anything else that could make your trip more enjoyable. We do everything possible to meet all special requests.

CEDAR LODGE CONTACT INFORMATION

CEDAR LODGE NUMBER: +64 21 085 38535

CEDAR LODGE ADDRESS: 74 School Rd Makarora 9384

New Zealand

Most international flights fly into Auckland Airport (AKL) on the North Island of New Zealand. From there, guests of Cedar Lodge can take a domestic flight to Queenstown Airport (ZQN) which is located about 2 hours away from Cedar Lodge by car. We will happily arrange for a private taxi to meet you at the airport when your plane lands. After collecting your luggage, they will drive you the rest of the way to Cedar Lodge, in Makarora.

• ENTRY VISA: Most travelers will need to obtain a NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) visa before they travel. You can request the NZeTA online at this website (https://nzeta.immigration.govt.nz/).

DRIVING DIRECTIONS

If you would prefer to rent a car, you can easily do so at the Queenstown Airport. From there, you can drive the 121 kilometers to Cedar Lodge. The drive should take approximately 2 hours via Highway 6. Follow Sir Henry Wigley Drive to State Highway 6. Follow Highway 6 to Crown Range Road in Arrow Junction. Continue on Crown Range Road for 50.5 kilometers, then take Cardona Valley Road to Highway 84 in Wanaka. Follow Highway 6 to School Road in Makarora. Turn left on School Road, and Cedar Lodge will be on the right. Please reach out to the team for more detailed driving directions to Cedar Lodge or if you are traveling from a different direction.

NEXT STEPS

Your Experience Manager will continue to work with you to customize your dream itinerary and will be available for any pre-arrival questions. They will be onsite throughout your stay should you need anything at all.

We are thrilled that you have decided to stay with us at Cedar Lodge! Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions. We are looking forward to hosting you and making your trip to New Zealand an unforgettable experience.

CALL US:

+1 800.903.7761 (Toll-Free) +1 970.237.5985 (International)

EMAIL US:

ELEVEN SALES TEAM reservations@elevenexperience.com

EXPERIENCE TEAM

cedarexperienceteam@elevenexperience.com

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Eleven Cedar Lodge Pre-Arrival Guide