Solar Project is ON!
When you live and work in the remote farmland, the relationship between energy and land isn't abstract. Energy isn't a utility bill—it's the key to the services we endeavour to deliver in every part of the lodge experience.
So when we started seriously looking at commercial solar power for Te Karaka, it wasn't a financial spreadsheet; in fact, the payback period is LONG. We firmly believe in the intangible, non-monetary benefits- the sustainability benefits to the environment and energy security.
This season, you might notice some new additions to the Lodge’s roof. We love how the lodge looks and how it sits elegantly in the landscape; that’s why we designed our solar panels to fit the same aesthetics.
What solar actually means for a place like ours
A boutique rural lodge runs on energy all day and all night. Heating, cooling, commercial kitchen equipment, hot water and air conditioning for ten rooms, outdoor lighting across the grounds, the heated swimming spa — it adds up. And unlike an office building that empties at 5 pm, we're a 24/7 operation with guests who are resting, eating, and unwinding at all hours.
Our grid network provider tries their best, but due to our location and strong westerlies, sometimes the power team can not get to us until half a day later when there has been a power outage.
That makes the case for our own solar power system even stronger than it might be for a typical business. We generate the most power when the sun is highest, which will be stored in our battery system and power the lodge in the evening, when our kitchen is busiest, our guests are dipping into the solar pools and taking showers, as well as keeping their rooms at a cozy temperature.
The return on investment for solar is compelling in the long run, environmentally and financially.
The sustainability case, in plain language
We hold a Gold Sustainability Tourism Business Award and a 5-Star Boutique & Lodge grading. We're proud of those recognitions — but they're not why we do what we do. They're a reflection of choices we'd make regardless. Solar is the same.
Here's what switching to renewable energy at a commercial property actually means, practically speaking:
Fewer carbon emissions, measurably. Our rooftop solar system directly reduces the greenhouse gases associated with running the lodge.
Less strain on the grid. Aotearoa's electricity network is under increasing pressure. Every kilowatt-hour we generate ourselves is one less drawn from the grid — if we have excess, we can sell back to the grid.
Better energy security and clever design. Our system was designed in such a way that the battery capacity is big enough to power the entire lodge at peak usage. We can store surplus daytime generation and use it in the evenings and overnight — reducing our reliance on grid electricity and our generator around the clock, not just during sunny hours.
An honest signal to our guests and community. When people choose Te Karaka, they're choosing a place that tries to walk its talk. Solar is visible, tangible, and real — not a line item in a carbon offset scheme.
The Project is Live
After spending the past three years talking to different suppliers and consultants, we have finally arrived at a robust design which will be delivered in the next few months.
At the beginning of Oct 2026, we have started to mount the panels onto our roof. We've decided to close certain days to get the work done ASAP, so you might find less availability in Oct on our booking platform. There will be work done behind the Greenhouse as well after the roof work is completed in November. We apologise in advance for any inconvenience.
But, how exciting!
Don’t forget to come back in December to see the completed project in full commission!