Nestled on St Mary’s Bay in Auckland, a few steps from the fashionable shopping area of Ponsonby, Mollies is a romantic hotel, a jewel in “the city of 100 lovers”. Opera buffs, the owners Stephen and Frances Fitzgerald have given this villa an intimate and artistic atmosphere, resplendent with artworks and a collection of antiques. The elegant decoration of the 13 suites combines perfectly classical charm and modern audacity. Bathed in light, they offer picturesque views of the luxuriant garden and harbour, and are decorated with rare objects, such as a grand piano and a harp. This “bijou hotel” also offers you the opportunity of a fine dining experience, with a five-course tasting menu, which changes daily.
Established in a 19th century Victorian residence, a few minutes from Christchurch, Otahuna Lodge is an exceptional house, seamlessly knitting past and present together. Antique furniture, period woodwork and remarkable library elegantly intermingle with contemporary creations of New Zealand artists and a rich collection of Maori art. The atmosphere of the 7 suites brings back the glorious Victorian era, with candlesticks and fireplaces of that time, but there again, the patina of bygone times is subtly mixed with luxury and refinement. Outside, “this small hill among the hills” (meaning of Otahuna in Maori) unveils striking views over the Banks Peninsula, the Canterbury Plains and the hundred-year old garden, home to many rare and protected species.
Set on 6,500 acres near Matauri Bay, Northland, The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs affords spectacular 180-degree views of the Pacific Ocean and overlooks our championship golf course. The beautiful panoramic view encompasses Cape Brett, the famous “hole in the rock” and the Cavalli Islands. A splendid plantation lodge hosts a spacious living room, two private day rooms, computer room, and a beautiful dining room with outdoor decks overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Eleven outlying guest cottages, each with two guest suites, provide accommodation at Kauri Cliffs. The cottages and a magnificent new spa facility are nestled on the edge of a native Totara forest overlooking the ocean and golf course and have been designed to offer the same stunning 180-degree vista as the main lodge from the private room verandas.
Lake Wanaka is an ecological sanctuary and one of New Zealand’s best preserved sites. On its banks stands this private and modern retreat with glass architecture to ensure that it blends discreetly into the landscape. Its opulent designer interiors guarantee intense experiences, whether you prefer salmon or trout fishing, horseback riding, a relaxing hot tub or picnics surrounded by mother nature. Or, take a short helicopter ride to the nearby mountains where you utilise this retreat’s private chalet, to immerse yourself in other adventures or simply ski down slopes of pure snow.
Describing this lodge as a “golfers’ paradise” is true but does not even begin to tell the whole story… The golf course meandering along the top of the abrupt green cliffs of this part of New Zealand is just one of the many reasons to stay at this lodge with its modern and inviting interior design and sophisticated pleasures. Nestled in a great wine region, the lodge is an ideal base from which to discover the surrounding estates and find out more about the country’s wines. Rafting and fishing in the rushing torrents, galloping along the immense beaches on horseback, the spa, helicopter and hot air balloon rides are just some of the many activities available. You could spend your whole life here and never cease to find new sources of pleasure…
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