Meet the Family Behind Ponga Lodge, Tarawera Tipi & Jack's Hut
At the heart of Ponga Lodge, Tarawera Tipi, and Jack’s Hut are David, Angela, and their son Ben—a family deeply connected to Lake Tarawera’s breathtaking beauty and rich heritage.
Their story began in 1989 in the UK, where David, a native of West Otago, was on his overseas adventure. A chance meeting led to love at first sight, a wedding in 1990, and a return to New Zealand, where they settled on the family farm in Otago. There, their two eldest children were born. Work opportunities later took them back to the UK, but after nearly 20 years, the pull of New Zealand proved too strong, and in 2017, they returned—this time to the serene shores of Lake Tarawera.
Keen to embrace a better work-life balance, they found a way to create a sustainable, nature-focused retreat. Their journey began with Jack’s Hut, a cherished relic from David’s grandfather, which they carefully relocated from Otago to its new home in Tarawera. This special piece of family history became the foundation for a charming glamping experience. Since then, they’ve added Ponga Lodge, Tarawera Tipi, and have even more exciting plans on the horizon!
Angela, with a passion for art and design, has recently added “published author” to her accomplishments with the release of her children’s fairy tale, Mr. Bendy’s New Shoes. Meanwhile, David, never one to sit still, is always busy—whether it’s helping locals with landscaping, building projects, or even crafting new jetties. With Spencer the dog at his side, he’s the go-to person for all things practical. Their 18-hectare lifestyle block keeps them on their toes, home to sheep, fallow deer, and endless outdoor projects.
When they aren’t hosting guests or tending to the land, they love to travel. Their eldest son’s home in Malaysia provides the perfect excuse for overseas adventures, while their daughter Georgia, based in Arrowtown and working for Air New Zealand, is always a great reason for South Island getaways.
For Angela, David, and Ben, Lake Tarawera isn’t just home—it’s a place to share with others, offering a slice of paradise where guests can reconnect with nature and create their own unforgettable memories.
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