Karamea, as the brochures promise, exists in splendid isolation literally at the end of the road. Karamea Lodge is a most welcoming, boutique self catering accommodation on the northern tip of South Island's West Coast.

Superbly peaceful and private, this beachfront luxury lodge is nestled on a thin band of oasis where lush rainforest meets the ocean. I found it to be the perfect antidote for a slightly road weary traveller and immediately settled into this magical place.

Jenny and Mark built the lodge after carefully considering the best design. I was welcomed into a beautiful, light filled entranceway and shown to my exquisitely appointed room with spectacular views and sliding doors opening out towards the coast.

The communal lounge, dining room and kitchen are spacious, comfortable and were the heart of our enjoyable stay where we met other travellers and of course our wonderful hosts who provisioned breakfasts the evening prior. And what breakfast provisions, consisting of local fare, organic passionfruit, tamarillo, feijoas, fresh baked muffins and a special treat, whitebait fritters.

So much to do and see - from the lodge walks through manicured grounds and along uninterrupted coastline, kayaking or bird watching; galleries and fine dining in town, the stunning seaside 12-hole golf course, Heaphy Track and Oparara Basin beg discovery. Linger, like us, and steep in the serene, spectacular location and luxurious semi-tropical resort.