Frequently Asked Questions
General Questions
What accommodation types do you offer at The Cliffs?
We offer two main types of accommodation:
- The Cliffs Seaside Lodge: Our flagship facility offering modern comfort with sea views and indoor/outdoor living.
- Humpridge View Motels: Self-contained motel suites featuring mountain and sea views.
What are your check-in and check-out times?
Check-in: From 2:00 PM
Check-out: By 10:00 AM on the day of departure.
What if I arrive late?
We provide self check-in for late arrivals.
Is there cooking facility or dining available on site?
Yes! We feature a spacious, fully equipped shared Guest Kitchen and Dining Room. You are welcome to prepare your own meals and relax around the wood burner. We also have outdoor BBQ facilities. (Onsite restaurant is not operating onsite this season)
Where can I buy groceries and fuel?
The nearest town for groceries and petrol is Tuatapere (~10 minutes / 10-15 km away), where you'll find a Four Square supermarket and local service stations. Larger supermarkets are in Invercargill (~1 hour drive) and Te Anau (~1 hour drive). On-site, guests can also use the fully equipped shared guest kitchen, dining room and BBQ.
Do you offer shuttle services for the Hump Ridge Track and regional transfers?
Yes. We arrange transport service for guests, offering transfers to and from the Tuatapere Hump Ridge Track trailhead, as well as regional connections to Queenstown and surrounding areas. Advance booking is recommended.
Is the shuttle free?
Yes, the local shuttle is free! The Cliffs provides a complimentary shuttle service for guests running between Tuatapere town, The Cliffs, and the Hump Ridge Track start point (on a pre-booked basis).
What amenities are included in the rooms?
All rooms include comfortable bedding, private or accessible bathroom facilities, high-speed Wi-Fi, heating, and complimentary toiletries. Full access to the communal kitchen and lounge area is included with every stay.
Do you have accessible rooms?
Yes. Accessible ground-floor rooms are available with step-free entry, wide soundproofed doors, and level-access walk-in showers in private ensuite bathrooms.
Are children welcome, and are extra beds available?
Families are welcome. Lodge accommodations come with a sofa bed and we also have an optional foldout bed available. Families have full access to the shared facilities including kitchen/dining, lounge, garden, and outdoor dining spaces.
Is there a laundry?
There is a new DIY Laundry in Tuatapere, located adjacent to Boundary Creek.
Where are you located, and is parking available?
We are located at 617 Papatotara Coast Road, Southland 9691, along the scenic Western Southland coastline. Free, secure on-site parking is available for all guests.
How far is The Cliffs from Te Anau, Invercargill and Queenstown?
- Te Anau: ~1 hour drive (~100 km)
- Invercargill: ~1 hour drive (~85 km / 62 miles)
- Queenstown: ~2 hours 30 minutes drive (~200 km)
(The property is also located just 10 minutes from the start of the Hump Ridge Track.)
What attractions and activities are near The Cliffs?
Our location is ideal for exploring Western Southland highlights, including:
- The Tuatapere Hump Ridge Track (Great Walk)
- Coastal beach walks, sea views, and stargazing
- Fishing, jet boating, and wildlife spotting along the Waitutu coastline and Lake Hauroko
Is Wi-Fi available at the property?
Yes, complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the lodge, motel units, and guest communal areas.
Is there mobile phone coverage?
Free high-speed Wi-Fi is provided throughout the property across all lodge rooms, motel suites, and guest lounge areas. Mobile cellular coverage is available but can be a bit patchy at the property. Signal strength can vary on surrounding remote coastal roads.
What is your cancellation policy?
Direct bookings cancelled up to 48 hours prior to arrival are eligible for a full refund. Cancellations made within 48 hours of check-in or no-shows may incur a fee equivalent to the first night's stay.
Are pets allowed at The Cliffs?
To protect local wildlife and ensure a peaceful atmosphere for all guests, pets are generally not permitted on the property. Service animals are always welcome with prior notice.
Hump Ridge Track Hikers
Can I store my extra luggage or vehicle at The Cliffs while I hike the Hump Ridge Track?
Yes! We offer secure gear and vehicle storage for all guests staying with us before or after their trek. You can leave excess luggage, travel bags, or your car safely on-site while you are out on the trail.
How do the shuttle transfers to and from the Hump Ridge Track work?
We arrange direct shuttle transfers between The Cliffs and the Hump Ridge Track trailhead (Rarakau Carpark).
- Morning drop-off: Departs in time to get you on the trail early.
- Afternoon pick-up: Scheduled to align with typical track finish times.
Please book your shuttle seat at least 24 hours in advance to guarantee timing.
What if I need to start my hike very early in the morning?
We accommodate early departures! If you need to hit the trail before our standard check-out or shuttle times, let us know at check-in. We can arrange an early shuttle drop-off and ensure you have full access to the guest kitchen for an early breakfast before heading out.
Can I prepare early morning meals or pack trail lunches in the guest kitchen?
Absolutely. The shared Guest Kitchen is accessible, fully equipped with refrigeration, stoves, and food preparation areas. You can prepare hot drinks, cook an early breakfast, or pack your day-one trail lunches before setting off.