Hosted Weekend Experience
The Kumara Gold Nuggets Weekend
One iconic race weekend. Every detail taken care of.
One weekend only
8 - 10 January 2027
Hosted Weekend Package: $2499 for 2 people
(double or twin share accommodation)
Only seven hosted packages are available each year, creating a hosted experience where every detail is personally looked after.
Each January, thousands of people head to Kumara for the legendary Gold Nuggets race meeting, where thrilling racing, local hospitality, live entertainment, and classic West Coast character come together for one unforgettable summer weekend.
Rather than coordinating accommodation, transport, meals, and race-day logistics, you simply arrive, settle into the lodge, and enjoy the weekend while we take care of everything else.
Everything is thoughtfully planned so you can simply enjoy one of New Zealand's most iconic race weekends from the moment you arrive until it’s time to head home.
Once the seven hosted packages are reserved, bookings will close until the next Kumara Gold Nuggets Weekend in January 2028.
The races are only part of the experience
This isn't simply somewhere to stay for race weekend. It's a fully hosted experience built around one of New Zealand's most iconic country racing events.
From the moment you arrive on Friday afternoon, everything has been arranged so you can settle into the lodge and enjoy the weekend instead of organising it.
Begin with a hosted dinner at the lodge, wake to a champagne breakfast before heading to the races, immerse yourself in the excitement of race day while we take care of the transport, then return to the warmth of the lodge for another relaxed evening of great food, conversation, and West Coast hospitality.
By Sunday morning, you'll head home having experienced far more than a race meeting.
You'll head home having experienced far more than race weekend. You'll leave with memories of a beautifully hosted escape.
The races bring you here. The hosted experience is what you'll remember.
Thoughtfully hosted from arrival to departure
Everything has been thoughtfully arranged, so you can simply arrive, settle in, and enjoy the weekend.
• Two hosted nights at Lake Brunner Eco Lodge
• Race day entry
• Hosted return transfers
• Champagne breakfast
• Lunch and drinks at the races
• Fresh seasonal hosted dinners
• Continental breakfast
• Glowworm walk
• Personal hosting throughout the weekend
While you're enjoying the races, the conversations, and the atmosphere, we're quietly taking care of everything else.
Experience all the excitement of the Kumara Gold Nuggets before returning to the calm of the lodge, where dinner is prepared, the fire is lit, and everything else has already been taken care of.
Only seven hosted packages are available each year.
The Perfect Balance of Energy and Escape
One moment you're surrounded by the excitement of Kumara. The next you're back at the lodge with dinner on the table, a glass of wine in hand, and the quiet beauty of Lake Brunner all around you.
Friday Evening
Arrive at Lake Brunner Eco Lodge, settle into your room, enjoy a freshly prepared seasonal dinner, then finish the evening with a glowworm walk or a quiet drink before race day begins.
Champagne breakfast before departing for Kumara. Enjoy the racing, local hospitality, lunch and drinks while we quietly take care of the transport and logistics.
Saturday
Return to the calm of the lodge where dinner is ready, and the conversations continue long after the races have finished.
Saturday Evening
Wake to peaceful lake views and a relaxed continental breakfast before heading home refreshed, well-fed, and already reminiscing about the weekend.
Sunday Morning
You arrive for one of New Zealand's most iconic race weekends. You leave having enjoyed a beautifully hosted escape.
“Great day at the races.
Loved our stay.
Thanks Brenda”
Kumara Races Package Pricing
Package Price: $2499 for two people.
The Kumara Races are a one-day event, and accommodation in the region books out fast.
This hosted package secures your stay, your meals, your transfers, and your best weekend of the year.
Races Weekend FAQ
-
We release only 7 Kumara Races packages each year. Once they are gone, they’re gone. This keeps the experience intimate and stress-free.
-
Yes. Return transfers are included.
-
Yes. Many guests choose to extend their stay to kayak, walk native trails, or simply relax at the lodge.
Let us know on enquiry if you’d like to add nights or activities.
-
The Kumara Races are a true West Coast tradition, and like all outdoor events, they’re sometimes at the mercy of the weather. If the races are cancelled, your weekend is still far from lost. You’ll enjoy a hosted lodge escape at Lake Brunner Eco Lodge with chef prepared meals, access to our favourite local activities, and pure serenity. Many guests tell us their “rainy weekend” ended up being just as unforgettable.
-
Every guest room is private and comfortable. The lodge sleeps only a small group, so you’ll never feel crowded.
-
We cater to your dietary needs. Just let us know when you book, and we will take care of you.
-
We understand plans can change. Our cancellation policy is outlined here.
We always aim to be fair and transparent.
Reserve Your Kumara Gold Nuggets Weekend
Secure one of the few packages available and enjoy the iconic Kumara Races with all logistics handled.
Fill in the form below to reserve your Kumara Races Package