When it comes to luxury, there is nun like it
They are not usually known for their lavishness, but a former Marlborough convent is set to become the latest luxury hideaway.
Private jets, super yachts and other symbols of the high life are becoming more common in New Zealand, as international rich listers seek out scenic experiences in luxury lodges around the country.
Marlborough already boasts luxury accommodation, but Chris Godsiff, the owner of Marlborough Tour Company, which specialises in wine tours and cruises, said many of his well-to-do clients chose not to stay in the region.
He believed the luxury set did not have enough options, so to help fill the gap he bought the former St Mary’s Convent, set among 6.5 hectares of European-style parkland and vines near Blenheim.
The colonial-style building, with its stained glass windows and high ceilings, was built in 1901 for the Sisters of Mercy in Blenheim, before it was taken to pieces and moved to the countryside in the 1990s.
Since taking over the property in May and re-naming it Marlborough Lodge, a team of builders had been busy renovating and refurbishing the historic convent, transforming it from a fivebedroom bed and breakfast to a 10-bedroom luxury lodge, set to open November 14.
Lodge general manager Peter White said entry level prices during the high season would start at $1600 a night, with second floor premium suites on the second floor going for $2000.
Guests would also have the option of hiring the entire property for their exclusive use, at a rate of $18,000 a night, which The food they’ll receive will be world-class cuisine. White said would be an attractive option for visiting celebrities seeking privacy.
An onsite helicopter pad will give guests jetting into Marlborough Airport the option of a sevenminute flight to the lodge, or the Marlborough Tour Company could pick them up.
‘‘Lodge accommodation is different where you’re very much going into what could be represented as somebody’s home, so you’re getting personalised attention,’’ White said. ‘‘There’ll be lots of interaction with myself, and the food they’ll receive will be world class cuisine.’’
The lodge will join the ranks of high-end establishments such as Wairarapa’s Wharekauhau Lodge, which has hosted a range of celebrity guests, including the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, Tom Cruise, Meg Ryan, and The Rolling Stones and Jack Black.
Huka Lodge, near Taupo, has been recognised as one of the top 20 hideaways in the world, with former guests including Queen Elizabeth II and Queen Beatrice of the Netherlands.
Both White and Godsiff believe the demand for luxury accommodation is growing in Marlborough, and in New Zealand generally, as the country is seen as an attractive and safe destination for wellheeled travellers.
Tourism NZ data shows a 21 per cent increase in revenue for luxury lodges in 2015/16 year compared to the year before.