Ultimate New Zealand

Overview

Since 1924, Huka Lodge has maintained the spirit of generous hospitality as was espoused by its charming founder, Irishman Alan Pye. Originally harbouring a reputation primarily as a trout fishing paradise, it is now known as an exceptional luxury retreat, and regarded among the best in the world.

The lodge sits upon the banks of the exceedingly picturesque Waikato River, its rushing waters on the literal doorsteps of 20 spacious junior suites.

The Owner’s Cottage enjoys a muted woodland palette and is upmarket and refined, white wooden beams arching over comfortable living spaces which are warm and rustic.

Constructed with strong cedar, heart timbers, stone and brick, The Alan Pye Cottage is a nod to early 20^th-century architecture with a reinterpretation of contemporary design.

The kitchen at Huka Lodge upholds a tradition of generous cuisine, changing daily to accommodate all palates and preferences. Raw honey is collected from the numerous bee hives from the local breeding programme on the property, ideal for deserts as it’s not too sweet.

Outside the lodge, activities abound. Enjoy anything from white water rafting to the lodge’s gorgeous namesake of nearby Huka Falls. Traverse the horse riding trails or similarly embark along hiking trails through this volcanic region.

Overview

Set atop 6,000 rolling acres of pasture-land in Hawke’s Bay, Rosewood Cape Kidnappers is the perfect place for a getaway. With spectacular views of the ocean, the luxury lodge combines the rustic and textured aesthetic of a working farm with chic modern and genuinely luxurious touches.

Each of the 22 spacious suites has a private balcony with views over the farmlands, golf course and the Pacific. Ideal for a family, or group, The Owner’s Cottage offers boutique hotel facilities for up to eight people. Relax in front of the stone fireplace, or soak in the outdoor jacuzzi.

The culinary team aims to source produce as locally as possible, and with the Cape Kidnappers’ vegetable garden now fully established, the chefs can create daily menus based on the freshest ingredients. The kitchen partners with handpicked Hawke’s Bay suppliers, building local connections to create a menu that’s uniquely reflective of the region’s finest produce.

There are a broad mix of activities on offer here, seasonal and changing daily, including farm tours, guided walks, star gazing, wine tasting, clay pigeon shooting, bird watching, horse treks, mountain biking and more. Meanwhile, the masterfully designed golf course presents a challenging game atop dramatic cliffs with arresting sea views.

Overview

Otahuna is a Maori word that translates as little hill among the hills. This beautifully restored Victorian house enjoys an idyllic location between the rocky outcrops of the Banks Peninsular, looking out towards the Southern Alps.

The house was built in 1895 for Sir Henry Rhodes, a long-term parliamentarian and military officer and served as his private home for many years. The lodge is influenced by English country estates, the dark wood, large fireplaces and antique furniture giving it a classical elegance.

There are seven suites, all with ornate fireplaces, and carved inglenooks and deep, oversized bath tubs. There are two master suites, one featuring  four bedrooms and the other a 14m verandah with sweeping views across the Canterbury Plains.

Dinner at Otahuna is a four-course tasting menu served in the dining room. The menu celebrates the best of seasonal New Zealand produce, some of which is grown on the estate. Dinner is a sociable affair enjoyed with other guests, but if you’re after something a little more private then there is the option to dine in the library or the drawing room. You can be sure of the perfect accompaniment to your food with fine wines from the lodge’s own cellar.

The grounds surrounding Otahuna are as beautiful as the lodge itself. Guests can wander through the daffodil field, through the woods and the Dutch garden and down to the lake, stopping off for a game of petanque or a dip in the outdoor pool.

Overview

Sitting snug in the idyllic surrounds of the Ahuriri Valley, and covering 600 acres of rugged landscape, is the unique and iconic Lindis. Here, one can experience Kiwi hospitality at its best while enjoying the serenity and stillness of nature away from the stresses of modern-day life.

Inside, timber and rock are combined with elegant and sophisticated designs, accentuating the bold beauty of the area. The lounge’s artistic ceiling evokes the sense of a chequered blanket suspended above you, adding warmth and security to the otherwise cool and spacious open-plan design. With glass-panelled walls, you are pulled into the rugged landscape that lays before you.

There are five suites located within the main lodge building, each featuring an outdoor area and fireplace. Expertly designed to blend into the landscape, the smooth curved roofline parallels the dramatic undulating mountains around it. Additionally, there are three distinctively designed pods, enclosed with mirrored glass and floor-to-ceiling windows which reflect and frame the spectacular environment. Wooden interiors encompass soft furnishings and cosy bedding while outdoor bathtubs promise toasty relief in the winter under a canopy of galaxies.

The restaurant uses ingredients sourced from their own garden and local farmers to create a menu inspired by the seasons. You can further relax knowing your pre-dinner drinks, dinner and afternoon tea are all included. Its location, far from any light pollution, makes this the ideal place for stargazing. Hiking, mountain climbing, mountain biking, gliding, horse riding and fly fishing are just a few of the wide range of activities you can immerse yourself in here.

Overview

Sat on the shores of the deep Lake Wakatipu, Matakauri Lodge is a tranquil haven of serene blue waters and sweeping mountain landscapes. Snow-capped peaks reach towards the sky, providing a backdrop like no other to this incredible luxury establishment.

Modern, bright and with plenty of room, the 16 suites have been styled by the highly celebrated designer Virginia Fisher. Four suites are found in the main lodge section while others have been built in a native forest with alpine panoramas. All have their own private balcony, lounge area and decadent bathroom, not to mention the cosy fireplace. The sizeable Owner’s Cottage is an idyllic getaway for larger groups or families.

Boasting a menu that changes constantly with the availability of seasonal produce, the kitchen at Matakauri Lodge focuses on a clean and fresh experience for the palate. There are a number of settings in which to savour this modern New Zealand cuisine, from the privacy of your own patio to the property’s spacious courtyards.

Located near great pine thickets, the spa provides an exclusive space where you can rejuvenate and reinvigorate your body with completely personalised treatments. Fall in love with the heated pool, let off some steam in the sauna or enjoy a leisurely time in the hot tub.

Whether you arrive to the long, warm days of summer or to a winter wonderland of snow, there is always so much to do during your stay at Matakauri. Walks and hikes dominate the area, as do scenic horse riding trails and wine tours. Avid golfers will rejoice to know a PGA-rated course is nearby; The Hills is surely one of the most stunning and gorgeously isolated round of 18 you can play anywhere in the world.