Luxury Lodge Hopping in New Zealand

“From north to south, New Zealand is an immersion in Maori-dipped expressions, iconic outdoor adventures and exotic Kiwi foodie fare,” writes Shannon Melnyk for The Province.

Melnyk mapped out a cross-nation sojourn via some of the finest lodges in the country.

The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs — Matauri Bay, North Island

“The picturesque Lodge at Kauri Cliffs basks in the views of Cape Brett, the Cavalli Islands and a native totara forest”. Go on waterfall hikes and discover Kauri’s Pink Beach. Its shore is not comprised of sand, but entirely of iridescent abalone (or sea opal) and other shells. The Lodge is famous for its golf course alongside cliffs that plunge to the sea.

In addition the property is put to good use as a working farm. Watch trusty dogs herd sheep – “a tag-team that’s both comical and exhilarating to see.”

The Farm at Cape Kidnappers — Hawke’s Bay, North Island

“The Farm at Cape Kidnappers is also a working farm/luxury property, but this time in the south of the North Island to Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand’s notorious wine region.” Here you can try clay shooting, enjoy a picnic on the bluff, quad or mountain biking, hiking, horseback riding or a day at the spa or pool. Cape Kidnappers’ golf course, which currently is ranked 22nd in the world by Golf Digest Magazine, also boasts sweeping cliff views.

Special discoveries are around every corner on The Farm, including the largest gannet colony in the world and the possibility to spot kiwis in their natural habitat.

Matakauri Lodge — Queenstown, South Island (picture)

“Changing gears for a taste of the South Island, a more modern, vibrant lodge life on the banks of Lake Wakatipu” – at Matakauri Lodge. The lodge is really close to Queenstown and its many activities.

The ultimate high is to board a helicopter steps away from the lodge, according to Melnyk. “Soar over mountains, glaciers and the iconic Milford Sound and land on a glacier or high up on Cecil Peak”, where the most unusual opportunity to golf three holes or drive a biodegradable ball high over Lake Wakatipu awaits.

Article Source: The Province, Shannon Melnyk, April 21, 2016

Image Source: Facebook – Matakauri Lodge