I arrived in Queenstown from Sydney on a flight with Qantas who provided a great service.
Queenstown, on the South Island, is a small town nestled beautifully in the Southern Alps.
Queenstown airport is easy both in an out. I picked up the car and since it was early I decide to explore the area before heading to Blanket Bay in the town of Glenorchy; a 1 hour drive north of the airport. I went south.
It took me a little while to teach my brain to how to drive on the left side of the road, especially the multiple roundabouts and their exits.
I drove along the side of Lake Wakaipu, an inland lake shaped like a dog leg and New Zealand’s longest lake. Highway 6, the road I took, placed along the Southeastern edge where the mountain range lies with many peaks covered with snow. I was able to witness majestic views of the lake, the crystal blue water reflecting the spectacular alpine peaks like a mirage.
After an hour or so I decided to come back to Queenstown, and take the northern route, driving towards Glenorchy, Otago.
The Blanket Bay Lodge is located directly overlooking Lake Wakaipu. The driveway of the lodge is carpeted by a deep green grass where dozens of sheep are grazing without a care in their lives, in the horizon the blue of the lake and the peaks of the Humboldt Mountains covered with perpetual snow make for a majestic welcome to the lodge.
Queenstown, on the South Island, is a small town nestled beautifully in the Southern Alps.
Queenstown airport is easy both in an out. I picked up the car and since it was early I decide to explore the area before heading to Blanket Bay in the town of Glenorchy; a 1 hour drive north of the airport. I went south.
It took me a little while to teach my brain to how to drive on the left side of the road, especially the multiple roundabouts and their exits.
I drove along the side of Lake Wakaipu, an inland lake shaped like a dog leg and New Zealand’s longest lake. Highway 6, the road I took, placed along the Southeastern edge where the mountain range lies with many peaks covered with snow. I was able to witness majestic views of the lake, the crystal blue water reflecting the spectacular alpine peaks like a mirage.
After an hour or so I decided to come back to Queenstown, and take the northern route, driving towards Glenorchy, Otago.
The Blanket Bay Lodge is located directly overlooking Lake Wakaipu. The driveway of the lodge is carpeted by a deep green grass where dozens of sheep are grazing without a care in their lives, in the horizon the blue of the lake and the peaks of the Humboldt Mountains covered with perpetual snow make for a majestic welcome to the lodge.
At the door of the main lodge the porters and the Manager, Mr. Butler, was waiting for me. Soon he whisked me inside the lodge.
The construction of the lodge is a grand style of the finest alpine lodges with elegant luxury. The design of the lodge with vaulted ceilings and walls of glass opening out to the lake and mountain views, make you see the grandeur of the landscape, a thrill welcoming. Mr. Butler explained to me how the beams were recycled beams from old bridges in the area and was incorporated in the design and you can find them in doors frames, chimney mantels, and supporting the roof. Beautiful local stone stacked one on top of the other, form the walls of the lodge, along with schist fire places and super comfortable soft furniture. The lodge blends seamlessly with Blanket Bay’s landscape.
The intimate den where the pre-dinner drinks and canapé are served is cozy and with great décor. There are several small scale yachts and sail boats displayed on the top shelves of the perfect polished wooden bookcases. I enjoyed coming to the pre-dinner drinks, as you’re able to meet interesting people and the waiters and bartender were amicably attentive and full of stories about the lodge. Drinks were perfect and the canapés well served in preparation for the upcoming dinner.
The construction of the lodge is a grand style of the finest alpine lodges with elegant luxury. The design of the lodge with vaulted ceilings and walls of glass opening out to the lake and mountain views, make you see the grandeur of the landscape, a thrill welcoming. Mr. Butler explained to me how the beams were recycled beams from old bridges in the area and was incorporated in the design and you can find them in doors frames, chimney mantels, and supporting the roof. Beautiful local stone stacked one on top of the other, form the walls of the lodge, along with schist fire places and super comfortable soft furniture. The lodge blends seamlessly with Blanket Bay’s landscape.
The intimate den where the pre-dinner drinks and canapé are served is cozy and with great décor. There are several small scale yachts and sail boats displayed on the top shelves of the perfect polished wooden bookcases. I enjoyed coming to the pre-dinner drinks, as you’re able to meet interesting people and the waiters and bartender were amicably attentive and full of stories about the lodge. Drinks were perfect and the canapés well served in preparation for the upcoming dinner.
The main dining room is very romantic, the walls are decorated with magnificent paintings of nature, gardens and landscapes, with some from renaissance period and others done by local artists.
Dinner is chosen from an a La carte menu which changes nightly, prepared by incredibly skilled and imaginative chefs and great wine selections of Marlborough vineyards and the Otago vineyards.
The staff is wonderful from the moment you check in I was made to feel extremely important, as was every guest staying at the property. Every staff member came and introduced themselves to me, and all immediately knew my name for the remainder of my stay.
The lodge has 7 magnificent villas and, soon, a new four-bedroom villa will offer commanding views to both the north and the south.
Dinner is chosen from an a La carte menu which changes nightly, prepared by incredibly skilled and imaginative chefs and great wine selections of Marlborough vineyards and the Otago vineyards.
The staff is wonderful from the moment you check in I was made to feel extremely important, as was every guest staying at the property. Every staff member came and introduced themselves to me, and all immediately knew my name for the remainder of my stay.
The lodge has 7 magnificent villas and, soon, a new four-bedroom villa will offer commanding views to both the north and the south.
The lodges are comfortable, with grand central living space and a large bathroom. Some have showers that come with steam.
The décor in the my villa is relaxed but elegant with great upholstered chairs in front of a grand window to sit down and submerge yourself in the magnificent view in front of you. The villas provide an unparalleled level of comfort, convenience and seclusion.
The open fire place is perfect especially for the cold nights, there is a nice patio in the back with two chairs and a table, perfect to go outside and drink your coffee in the morning waiting for the twilight to change to day and realize how fortunate you are, to be part of this experience.
The open fire place is perfect especially for the cold nights, there is a nice patio in the back with two chairs and a table, perfect to go outside and drink your coffee in the morning waiting for the twilight to change to day and realize how fortunate you are, to be part of this experience.
The lodge itself also has 5 rooms with fantastic views of the lake.
There are plenty of activities to do in Blanket Bay. It’s a great place for hiking throughout the well-marked trails. Less than 5 minutes from the lodge there is a hike to Mount Judah on the Whakaari Conservation Area of 17,000 hectares. It contains relatively easy hiking that gives you views of the dramatic environment and its interaction with the pastoral past of the area.
From the top of one of the main hikes, you can deviate yourself and take different paths, all with beautiful sights of the lake and the Humboldt alpine mountains. There are also abandoned state mines that can be explored.
Another great activity is to do the jet boat ride, up the remote Dart River. It’s an exuberant and spectacular journey deep into the heart of the world-renowned Mt. Aspiring National Park - one of the most stunning locations for jet boating in New Zealand. Its fun and I saw more of the area and landscape close up. www.dartriverjetsafari.co.nz
You can also organize a guided visit to all the film sites used on the Lord of the Rings, The Hobbit and other movies.
Fly by helicopter and see the majestic Milford Sound, one of New Zealand’s most spectacular destinations, the eighth wonder of the world.
Guided fly fishing, horse riding, paragliding and mountain biking are other great activities at the lodge.
If you are looking for that unforgettable experience, then you can't pass up Blanket Bay Lodge. It is a place to relax and absorb the goodness of the Alpine environment, and its cool and cozy climate. You will enjoy the exquisite accommodations and sitting at the table with new friends to enjoy a perfect meal paired with the best wines of the region.
Blanket Bay is part of Small Luxury Hotels of the World
You can also organize a guided visit to all the film sites used on the Lord of the Rings, The Hobbit and other movies.
Fly by helicopter and see the majestic Milford Sound, one of New Zealand’s most spectacular destinations, the eighth wonder of the world.
Guided fly fishing, horse riding, paragliding and mountain biking are other great activities at the lodge.
If you are looking for that unforgettable experience, then you can't pass up Blanket Bay Lodge. It is a place to relax and absorb the goodness of the Alpine environment, and its cool and cozy climate. You will enjoy the exquisite accommodations and sitting at the table with new friends to enjoy a perfect meal paired with the best wines of the region.
Blanket Bay is part of Small Luxury Hotels of the World
Next stop Annandale in the Banks Peninsula.
I flew from Queenstown to Christchurch, a 45 minute flight. The Peninsula is on the east coast of the south island. I drove away from the Garden City, as Christchurch is known, towards Akaroa Just 75 kilometers from the city of Christchurch.
Akaroa is historic French and British settlement nestled in the heart of an ancient volcano, tucked alongside a deep and sheltered harbor.
On the far side of the Peninsula the 4,000 acres of Annandale awaits for me.
I flew from Queenstown to Christchurch, a 45 minute flight. The Peninsula is on the east coast of the south island. I drove away from the Garden City, as Christchurch is known, towards Akaroa Just 75 kilometers from the city of Christchurch.
Akaroa is historic French and British settlement nestled in the heart of an ancient volcano, tucked alongside a deep and sheltered harbor.
On the far side of the Peninsula the 4,000 acres of Annandale awaits for me.
Annandale has four distinctive properties; the first one is the tranquil beautiful homestead full of Victorian refinement, established in 1843. With 5 bathrooms, surrounded by a magnificent garden and overlooking Pigeon Bay. It is complete with an infinity pool, gym, tennis court, a large vegetable garden and orchard and a fern sanctuary.
The working farm has 7,000 sheep and 700 cattle, so wherever you are you will see them grazing peacefully in their majestic grounds.
The other three properties are outside and only accessible by 4WD or helicopter.
First, is the quaint, historic, yet luxurious Shepherd’s Cottage. It is set high on the hill with an uninterrupted view of the Pacific Ocean. About 30 minutes drive from the homestead.
The other two properties are Scrubby Bay and Seascape, both designed by award-winning Auckland architect Andrew Patterson.
Scrubby Bay is a luxury cedar clad beach house about a 45-minute drive from Homestead, but the drive offers some of the most spectacular views imaginable so it's no hardship.
The working farm has 7,000 sheep and 700 cattle, so wherever you are you will see them grazing peacefully in their majestic grounds.
The other three properties are outside and only accessible by 4WD or helicopter.
First, is the quaint, historic, yet luxurious Shepherd’s Cottage. It is set high on the hill with an uninterrupted view of the Pacific Ocean. About 30 minutes drive from the homestead.
The other two properties are Scrubby Bay and Seascape, both designed by award-winning Auckland architect Andrew Patterson.
Scrubby Bay is a luxury cedar clad beach house about a 45-minute drive from Homestead, but the drive offers some of the most spectacular views imaginable so it's no hardship.
Scrubby Bay has three master bedrooms and a bunk room for the kids, as well as a pool, hot tub, massive living room and fully outfitted kitchen. The wood-paneled doors all slide open so that interiors and exteriors blend into one continuous space letting the breeze move freely inside the low-lying, cabin.
Seascape is truly the show stopper on the property. With its mix of slate, concrete, pine and an abundance of glass, an ultra modern one bedroom, steel and glass retreat. It looks like something James Bond and Sir Norman Foster co-designed. Although the property is certainly comfortable and offers every luxury, it is what it is on the outside that really matters. The property is situated in a picturesque private bay with the dreamiest landscapes. Once the car of the Manager disappeared up the steep rocky driveway, I was keenly aware just how remote from any civilization I was, and I felt at peace with that. I said to myself “if the world would end today I would not know and I would not even care.”
Seascape is truly the show stopper on the property. With its mix of slate, concrete, pine and an abundance of glass, an ultra modern one bedroom, steel and glass retreat. It looks like something James Bond and Sir Norman Foster co-designed. Although the property is certainly comfortable and offers every luxury, it is what it is on the outside that really matters. The property is situated in a picturesque private bay with the dreamiest landscapes. Once the car of the Manager disappeared up the steep rocky driveway, I was keenly aware just how remote from any civilization I was, and I felt at peace with that. I said to myself “if the world would end today I would not know and I would not even care.”
The state-of-the-art kitchen was stocked with snacks, while the stainless steel fridge held my vacuumed sealed gourmet meals pre-delivered, and a nice selection of wine. Simple cooking directions, this is how Annandale has, for now, solved the logistical challenge of distance and in-villa dining.
But if you preferred, Annandale will be happy to arrange a private chef.
This villa for sure will always be remembered as the most spectacular place I’ve ever stayed, without any doubt. The afternoon light enters the house from every corner through the tall glass walls coloring the concrete with bright psychedelic colors.
This is a place to bring your other half because this place will magically display the most romantic views you can imagine. The nights here are not to be forgotten. Outside awaits a warm Jacuzzi with the long fireplace and the sky above displaying millions of stars, all coming to welcome you on this special night. In the morning, the light is so pristine that you truly believe you have died and have reached heaven.
Should you decide to leave the grounds, there are many spectacular tracks on Annandale, including the 14km Pigeon Bay Walkway from where, on the top of the mountains, I witnessed uninterrupted views of the cliffs and the ocean.
Otahuna (‘little hill among the hills’ in Maori),
I headed back towards Christchurch and about an hour drive from the city, I arrived at the most splendid house. Otahuna Lodge was built in 1895 and designed with the best Queen Anne architecture. Once the gate opens you drive through sweeping striped lawns, colossal, strong beech and mature pine trees, daffodil fields and perfectly manicured gardens. Flowers of all colors are planted throughout the estate. I felt like I just entering a painting done by Thomas Kinkade. It is Absolutely spectacular.
I headed back towards Christchurch and about an hour drive from the city, I arrived at the most splendid house. Otahuna Lodge was built in 1895 and designed with the best Queen Anne architecture. Once the gate opens you drive through sweeping striped lawns, colossal, strong beech and mature pine trees, daffodil fields and perfectly manicured gardens. Flowers of all colors are planted throughout the estate. I felt like I just entering a painting done by Thomas Kinkade. It is Absolutely spectacular.
Once inside the house I was welcomed by Donna, she showed me the house and share great historical stories about the house, she told me for instance the house was a wedding present by Sir Heaton Rhodes to his lovely wife Jessie, that she died young and that Sir Heaton lived in Otahuna for more than 60 years. The house after that was purchased twice, once as a guesthouse for a catholic monastery and then became a commune.
Otahuna itself is now recognized as an architectural icon of New Zealand and the house is not shy of showing its romantic beauty. Once inside the house it feels warm and welcoming. The house has brilliant details such as the arched verandas, turrets, wooden paneling, stained glass windows, ornate wood and the sculpture burning inglenooks. The house does not look or feel a century plus old. The brick, stone, weatherboards, shingles, stucco all looking new.
A member of the prestigious Relais & Chateaux properties, the home offers seven individual suites. The two master and five suites all decorated with different styles. My room, the Polo, had a super king bed dressed in fine linens. The bathroom is very big with deep bathtubs and separate rain shower and with a window facing the garden.
The service was so very special, and the food was great. Jimmy the Chef, the most senior house member holding many positions over the years, and his team did an amazing dinner menu. They cooked with produce from their own garden and in my menu that night from the garden we had: celeriac, fennel and asparagus.
Jimmy also prepared a Salmon confit, fresh mozzarella with Otahuna Salami, Tai Tapu Duck and, Kumara ginger puree all very different but created equally well. Star quality. The wines perfect: Sauvignon Semillon from Waipara Valley, a rose from Martinborough, and Pinot Noir from Canterbury. It was a wonderful evening.
In the morning, the garden awaits to be discovered.
The gardens are very well kept with an architectural Dutch Garden, a lake, intimate walks, and great vistas.
Jimmy also prepared a Salmon confit, fresh mozzarella with Otahuna Salami, Tai Tapu Duck and, Kumara ginger puree all very different but created equally well. Star quality. The wines perfect: Sauvignon Semillon from Waipara Valley, a rose from Martinborough, and Pinot Noir from Canterbury. It was a wonderful evening.
In the morning, the garden awaits to be discovered.
The gardens are very well kept with an architectural Dutch Garden, a lake, intimate walks, and great vistas.
Breakfast was so well prepared in the communal kitchen, fresh baked bread baked by the joyful and lively Nikki, cereals, yogurts, fresh fruit and breakfast a la carte.
I felt a sense of peace and comfort at Otahuna; which today, thanks to the hands of the new owners, the house remains a testament to Sir Heaton Rhodes’ passion for the finer things of life.
My next property was in Nelson, a short flight from Christchurch of about 50 minutes
I felt a sense of peace and comfort at Otahuna; which today, thanks to the hands of the new owners, the house remains a testament to Sir Heaton Rhodes’ passion for the finer things of life.
My next property was in Nelson, a short flight from Christchurch of about 50 minutes
Split Apple Retreat is approximately a 1 hour drive.
Split Apple Retreat is situated facing the Abel Tasman National Park on a ridge overlooking uninterrupted panoramas of the Tasman Bay. This unique place is super exclusive and not visible from the road. It is on a cliff near the end of a narrow road. I was surprised not seeing any signs for the house that is in a residential neighborhood.
The name of the retreat comes from a rather unusual rock formation in the bay that looks just like that - a perfect split apple.
Split Apple Retreat is situated facing the Abel Tasman National Park on a ridge overlooking uninterrupted panoramas of the Tasman Bay. This unique place is super exclusive and not visible from the road. It is on a cliff near the end of a narrow road. I was surprised not seeing any signs for the house that is in a residential neighborhood.
The name of the retreat comes from a rather unusual rock formation in the bay that looks just like that - a perfect split apple.
The house was truly a surprise for me. The entry is decorated by an old covered Japanese gate, recovered from an ancient Japanese temple with two beautiful antique lanterns hanging at each side of the gate. The gate, architecturally perfect, blended into the landscape.
At the other site of the gate was the beautiful oriental garden and the welcoming smile of my hostess waiting for me, her name was Anne Pen and she is Dr. Lee Nelson’s wife; both owners of the well-being center.
At the other site of the gate was the beautiful oriental garden and the welcoming smile of my hostess waiting for me, her name was Anne Pen and she is Dr. Lee Nelson’s wife; both owners of the well-being center.
The entrance is lower than the rest of the home. The removal of one’s shoes was not symbolic but it had physical and psychological purpose and allowed me to be aware that I was entering someone’s private space.
The tour of the home was conducted by Pen who told me that the house was built around Dr. Nelson’s large collection of Japanese art which are display throughout the entire house with other Asian pieces. Pen introduced me to many of them due to my curiosity and I was delighted to know that some of them are as old as the 3rd century AD.
I was introduced to the rest of the house. The attention to detail is everywhere: the style, the structure and the decoration of the home perfectly balanced.
After the antiques, she took me to see the an amazing infinity swimming pool with jaw-dropping views of the deep turquoise–green waters of the Tasman sea and the seclude golden beaches. For a moment I felt as I was part of a scene in a hologram of the future where only places like this could ever exist.
It has an outdoor spa pool, a gym, an infrared sauna, steam room, spat room, outdoor showers and ozonated hot tub. With three superb and exceptionally spacious guest rooms.
My room the Lotus room equipped with a wonderfully comfortable bed and a delightful private terrace from which to enjoy idyllic views. The bathroom has two-person granite Japanese tub and the room had beautiful Japanese furnishings. The earthy interior mimics the colors of the outside calm landscape.
Dr. Nelson and his wife Pen, the two incredible hosts at Split Apple Retreat made me feel welcomed right away. Relaxing and focusing on health are the priority in this house. Dr. Nelson is a guru, a modern Yoda if you will. We had conversations from Creative Kinase, fish oil, lipids to coconut yogurt and colostrums, well-being and overall discussions about a healthier approach to life.
His meditation technique is one that I will never forget. It was effective and super relaxing. The meditation was conducted in the home-made cinema. Also I heard by another guest it has the best acupuncture and reiki.
Pen, is the heart of this home as she is the nurturing mother who prepares all your meals with a nutritionally tailored gourmet cuisine. Dr. Lee’s vision of food healing comes alive in the wonderful and skillful hands of the artist that is Pen; every dish is prepared from delicious local ingredients. She even made a chocolate mousse tart without sugar or flour and it was perfect.
His meditation technique is one that I will never forget. It was effective and super relaxing. The meditation was conducted in the home-made cinema. Also I heard by another guest it has the best acupuncture and reiki.
Pen, is the heart of this home as she is the nurturing mother who prepares all your meals with a nutritionally tailored gourmet cuisine. Dr. Lee’s vision of food healing comes alive in the wonderful and skillful hands of the artist that is Pen; every dish is prepared from delicious local ingredients. She even made a chocolate mousse tart without sugar or flour and it was perfect.
Pre-dinner came with gourmet, bite sized food, filled by explosions of flavor. Pen’s talent and the qualified physician that is Dr. Lee made the perfect combination for a truly rejuvenating well-being experience.
Pre-dinner came with gourmet, bite sized food, filled by explosions of flavor. Pen’s talent and the qualified physician that is Dr. Lee made the perfect combination for a truly rejuvenating well-being experience.
And yes there is a wine cellar with a wonderful collection of wines, beautiful bottles of Japanese sake and perfect roses waiting to be picked up. You don’t have to give up some of your ‘guilty pleasures’ red, white and rose wines are served with every meal and before dinner.
The only drawback here is that I didn’t spend enough time. I would recommend 3 days here to enjoy the special creations coming from Pen’s kitchen. Go to the Abel Tasman National Park, including a helicopter trip to see the green carpet of the land and view from above the clear water of The Waikoropupu Springs. The spring keeps giving life at 14,000 liters of water per second, making a beautiful clear river along the way. There is also kayaking, hiking and sailing.
The only drawback here is that I didn’t spend enough time. I would recommend 3 days here to enjoy the special creations coming from Pen’s kitchen. Go to the Abel Tasman National Park, including a helicopter trip to see the green carpet of the land and view from above the clear water of The Waikoropupu Springs. The spring keeps giving life at 14,000 liters of water per second, making a beautiful clear river along the way. There is also kayaking, hiking and sailing.
I left completely restored and with a sense of calm and bliss. Dr. Nelson and Anne Pen own, by far, one of the best boutique hotels in the world. I travel a lot and have had the privilege to stay in very some very exclusive places all over the world. This place really was a stunning wellness spot.
Next stop was Palliser Bay. I drove back to Nelson and took a short flight to Wellington, and drove two hours to the Wharekauhau Country Estate with 5000 acres, a working sheep station and cattle. The Edwardian country style sits on 16 miles of stunning views to the pacific coastland, lakes, mountains and bush.
It is an excellent contemporary resort with 14 villas.
The manager, Richard Rooney, gave me a warm welcome and he did all possible to enhance my experience here from a private sheep shearing to a safari, a must do if you want to appreciated more the spectaculars views of the coastline. The safari took me to see the awesome vegetable and herb gardens, the forest with its wildlife and Manuka Trees. We drove through hillocks, and made a short visit to feed the eels in the pond. The guide was great with the history of the place and because of her knowledge about the farm, I learned more about the cattle, the fauna and the local area.
Richard suggested a great hike, a 45 minute walk that took me to see the most magnificent panorama and an isolated beach with black sand. It was early morning and the sand was shimmering with thousands of tiny lights. I stood still listening to roar of the thunderous Pacific in front of me.
The hike ended up above the coastline and once you reach the top the view from there is uninterrupted and just glorious.
My cottage was roomy with lots of fresh morning light, comfy under floor heating and a warm gas fire. Big tub and shower with a very comfortable bed. Delicious homemade cookies wait in the room.
The meals are prepared in an open kitchen and you can see the chef at work preparing the wonderful meals with fresh food locally sourced.
The area is full of great vineyard less than 30 minutes from the lodge.
Wharekauhau country state is outstanding in the New Zealand Lodge experience.
My cottage was roomy with lots of fresh morning light, comfy under floor heating and a warm gas fire. Big tub and shower with a very comfortable bed. Delicious homemade cookies wait in the room.
The meals are prepared in an open kitchen and you can see the chef at work preparing the wonderful meals with fresh food locally sourced.
The area is full of great vineyard less than 30 minutes from the lodge.
Wharekauhau country state is outstanding in the New Zealand Lodge experience.
The Farm at Cape Kidnappers in Hawke’s Bay,
The drive from Palliser Bay to Hawke’s Bay was the longest drive at around 4 hours, but I think I have accomplished something very wonderful by driving both islands. I know helicopters are the quickest form of transportation in New Zealand for tourism. It generally takes just a few minutes to reach the lodges and farms from the airports, whereas driving it could be a couple hours or more. But driving is a completely other world and I was able to see the pastoral rural communities along the roads I took. To absorb the lush landscape, visit great wineries, and see how the locals live.
The drive from Palliser Bay to Hawke’s Bay was the longest drive at around 4 hours, but I think I have accomplished something very wonderful by driving both islands. I know helicopters are the quickest form of transportation in New Zealand for tourism. It generally takes just a few minutes to reach the lodges and farms from the airports, whereas driving it could be a couple hours or more. But driving is a completely other world and I was able to see the pastoral rural communities along the roads I took. To absorb the lush landscape, visit great wineries, and see how the locals live.
I did not know what to expect of Cape Kidnappers. I did read about the history behind the name, how a Polynesian boy escorting Captain Cook was kidnapped in the bay by the Maori people thinking he was one of theirs.
Once you go up 20 minutes behind the gates and reach the top of the cliff you will find this spectacular pasture land in a pristine background.
The main Lodge is a building with a beautiful farm ranch style. Two tall Mexican doors with beautiful rusty iron and old patina are the gates of the main entry. The lobby is spacious and decorated with luxury and a comfort in mind.
The property has 22 cottages, and one with four bedrooms named the Owner’s Cottage.
My cottage was super spacious, with a large porch that opens to a breathtaking view. Great natural light everywhere, the decoration is all that you could expect in a luxury ranch; comfortable bed, spacious chairs upholstered with beautiful wools, and the television skillfully hidden behind a cowboy picture.
My cottage was super spacious, with a large porch that opens to a breathtaking view. Great natural light everywhere, the decoration is all that you could expect in a luxury ranch; comfortable bed, spacious chairs upholstered with beautiful wools, and the television skillfully hidden behind a cowboy picture.
All 22 cottages scaled in different points and with great views. The Spa has the best view of the house with corners views of the Ocean and the green landscape.
Lots to do and explore: golf is big here with a Tom Doak designed links style golf course and #27 in the top best in the world.
I highly recommend experiencing the Cape Sanctuary, and experience one of the world’s weirdest and fragile birds in their own environment - the Kiwi. You will have the chance to hold it in your hands and put it close to your chest and listen to its heart. The owners of the Lodge have invested a great deal to allow Kiwi to be safe in the area and they have built a $2.5 Million vermin proof fence running across the peninsula. By 2040, Cape Sanctuary should contain the largest population of Kiwi in New Zealand and by 2020, the Cape Sanctuary should contain an assemblage of oceanic coastal, and terrestrial fauna found nowhere else on mainland New Zealand, so there is hope with visionaries like Mr. Robertson, along with the Lowe and Hansen Families.
Hike to see the Gannet Colony. It’s a 1 ½ hour hike one way or you can ask the lodge to drive you there. The interesting Gannet colony is located high on a coastal nesting area at Cape Kidnappers. When I went to see them it was mating season in early October so there were dozens of nests spread all around. I was told by a staff member that from the point I was their very young take their 1st flight solo to Australia, and return when they are 4 or 5 years old, (only 60% make it back) and nest here for life (approx 25 to 30 years). They can dive to 30 meters to catch fish.
The Farm at Cape Kidnappers is a member of Relais & Chateaux, an elegant accommodation with fine dining and if wine is your passion this is a good place to enjoy.
Huka Lodge - Taupo.
The drive is 3 and ½ hours through the most scenic views like the views you only read in fairy tales books. Vast green valleys, forests full of pines, tall rocky mountains and the sound of water always close.
Huka Lodge is located in New Zealand’s central region a high volcanic plateau with thermal activities, it is a thermal wonderland with spouting geysers, plopping mud pools with sulfurous smells, and medicinal baths.
The drive is 3 and ½ hours through the most scenic views like the views you only read in fairy tales books. Vast green valleys, forests full of pines, tall rocky mountains and the sound of water always close.
Huka Lodge is located in New Zealand’s central region a high volcanic plateau with thermal activities, it is a thermal wonderland with spouting geysers, plopping mud pools with sulfurous smells, and medicinal baths.
It is also where Lake Taupo is located a lake, the size of Singapore, that was product of a volcanic eruption and almost center in the main part of the island. The lake is so large that it has tides.
The Lodge is immaculate. Founded in 1920 this beautiful property is one of the best lodges in the world. Queen Elizabeth has visited 4 times and that says it all.
The Lodge is immaculate. Founded in 1920 this beautiful property is one of the best lodges in the world. Queen Elizabeth has visited 4 times and that says it all.
Nestled on 17 acres of manicured lawns and beautiful gardens on the banks of the Waikato River; New Zealand’s longest river with its powerful waters flows downstream past the lodge.
All eighteen junior lodge suites, one suite and the two private cottages which are built on a bluff overlooking the river with magical green, and turquoise colors, outdoor terrace with infinity pool and outdoor chimney.
All the junior suites have a panoramic view to the river, very spacious, with beautiful large glass bifold doors that open out to the outdoor patio and overlook the majestic river passing by. The bathroom was stunning with a huge bathtub perfect for long soaks. The Suites were built to create harmony allowing the outside to dominate and interact with the softness of the interior furniture and decoration. Every window looks out to the greenery and lush nature.
The main lodge is the hub of the property and it is beautifully furnished in the typical style of an old Scottish fishing lodge. Dinners are legendary here with more than twenty very different and amazing dining venues, some outdoors, with the most romantic designs.
One of my venues was the cellar all light up with candles, even the chandleries had candles. Five- course gourmet, complimented by excellent wine.
The main lodge is the hub of the property and it is beautifully furnished in the typical style of an old Scottish fishing lodge. Dinners are legendary here with more than twenty very different and amazing dining venues, some outdoors, with the most romantic designs.
One of my venues was the cellar all light up with candles, even the chandleries had candles. Five- course gourmet, complimented by excellent wine.
The menu has John Dory, a fish that the Maori gave to Captain Cook on his first voyage to New Zealand, Pheasant, Leigh Snapper, Silver Fer Venison and for desert Tamarillo, a fruit that I am very familiar with, all cooked with the highest quality produce.
The wine was at the same level of magnificence, all paired with each meal to create an unashamedly and wonderful experience.
I took a short 10-minute walk to see the mighty Huka falls. Once you arrive to the falls you can experience Huka falls as they cascade and thunder in a spectacular series of rapids.
From there you can hike and see how beautiful nature is in this volcanic plateau, once you are inside the forest the thunder of the falls is followed by flowing water making pools of silver and pales blues. Here the morning light is trapped shining in many little tinkles. The occasional ducks, fighting the currents moving their unstoppable legs, try to stay away from the underwater current as it pushes farther away from land. Huge pines with their robust branches and trunks remind me of the Colossus of Rhodes, they look so strong and it seems there were here long before we were visitors of this land.
New Zealand! It has places that you thought only existed in your dreams and it is as pure as my childhood memories.
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