About Us
WELCOME TO OUR MODERN, SPACIOUS, BEAUTIFULLY APPOINTED LODGE.
Friendly and Helpful
We pride ourselves on making your stay in Motueka enjoyable and stress-free. We love sharing all our local knowledge with you and will help you make the most of your stay and your Top of the South adventure get-away! We are really looking forward to helping you have a memorable holiday.
Whether you are wanting to explore or relax, Nautilus Lodge is the perfect base for your perfect holiday. Greet the day sitting in your own courtyard or balcony while you plan your day. Some operators pick up from the motel, so there is no need to drive!
15 minutes from Kaiteriteri and the Abel Tasman National Park
We are just are short drive from Kaiteriteri and the Abel Tasman National Park where you can experience seal swims, boat cruises, numerous walks or cycle trails or if you prefer just sit on the beach and have a relaxing picnic. We are so lucky to live in the most scenic place in New Zealand and there are plenty of photographic opportunities from birdlife, stunning bays and beaches, native forest or any activity that you want to enjoy.
Centrally Located
Because we are right in town, you can walk to our great shopping centre and pick up a souvenir, some unique homewares, clothing or a gift for a loved one. We have a great museum and interesting local art shops. Or if you just want to sit and watch the world go by, there are so many fantastic restaurants and cafes for you to choose from. Our guests rave about the Indian and Thai restaurants and the Sprig & Fern (one of the best eating places in Motueka) which are within easy strolling distance from the motel. A short drive away there is Hooked on Marahau and The Apple Shed Café & Bar, both of which have received great reviews from our guests. So there are plenty of wonderful restaurants to choose from no matter what your tastes.
After your day’s activities, come back and enjoy a true Kiwi dinner with a BBQ, then sit in your courtyard or on your balcony with a glass of your favourite drink and watch the sun go down on yet another fantastic day.
Meet Your Hosts: Graeme and Diane
Your hosts at Nautilus Lodge Motueka, bring a wealth of experience in the accommodation industry. From owning a backpacker’s hostel to establishing Nautilus Lodge as the leading motel in the Motueka district, their expertise ensures every guest enjoys a memorable stay.
As avid travellers who have explored extensively across New Zealand and visited over 30 countries, Graeme and Diane share a deep passion for travel and love connecting with like-minded adventurers. They feel privileged to call Motueka home—a vibrant town and gateway to the stunning Abel Tasman National Park.
Their own travel experiences help them understand the needs of their guests, ensuring warm hospitality, personalized service, and a true home-away-from-home experience.
Motel Facilities
"Above and Beyond. Not only immaculate accommodation with extras like a choice of trim or whole milk, but excellent, friendly service freely given. I appreciated the willingness to print some documents for me at the office; many thanks."
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"Amazing host/manager/owners. I am still staying here, but already want to compliment the owners. So hospitable, friendly and great advice in what to do. Laundry service almost closed? No problem. When you get back you will find it in your room. Wow. Thanks"
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"Great choice as part of our honeymoon. A tremendous place to start the new year. From the moment we arrived to the moment we left, the owners were very helpful and friendly. From booking our trips we did to offering advice on where we should visit around the area, they could not have been more helpful. Things could not have been better. The accommodation was right for us. There was a small kitchen area when we wanted breakfast, but most of the time we ate out. Everything was clean and tidy. They even moved our washing under cover when it rained and we were out and about. Very thoughtful. We would highly recommend the Nautilus Lodge."
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