Santa Barbara Life & Style Magazine
ISLAND HOPPERS
TRAVERSING NEW ZEALAND’S RICH LANDSCAPE VIA THE ROBERTSON LODGES
A comprehensive guide to New Zealand’s lushest properties, the Robertson Lodges.
With the hum of opening borders dominating our airwaves, the time is ripe to consider the once-in-a-lifetime trips we are more eager than ever to take. Having handled the pandemic with efficiency, New Zealand is at the forefront of many international travelers' minds (and bucket lists). As a New Zealander based in the States, I am happy to have uncovered the most comprehensive (and lush!) way to take in all my country has to offer.
Robertson Lodges, founded 20 years ago, are among the world's most awarded luxury hotels, recognized widely for their ecological focus. The three properties are strategically located in New Zealand’s most breathtaking corners. Each estate encapsulates the heritage of the region and boasts beautiful architecture. The chain of properties extends from the North to the South Island, with lodges in the Bay of Islands, Hawkes Bay, and Queenstown. I can attest that these are the most stunning enclaves of the country.
Kauri Cliffs boasts a 6,000-acre property near the tranquil Matauri Bay. The lodge offers a 180-degree view of the Pacific
Ocean, three private beaches, a championship 18-hole golf course, and 22 stunning guest suites, three four-bedroom residences, and a two bedroom owner’s cottage. As if that isn't enough to keep me occupied during my stay, the concierge assembled an extensive list of adventure experiences hosted by private tour guides, ranging from bird watching to fishing, surfing to farm tours. To venture on these excursions, I simply request an experience, and as if by magic, my ideal day of exploits is constructed. Throughout my vacation, I play the 18hole golf course, kayak to a private beach set with a charcuterie board to usher in the sunset, and take advantage of the tennis lesson program. To wind down at the end of the day, I delight in 5-star tasting menus, designed by their chef to accommodate my specific palate.
Days scheduled full of adventuring naturally necessitate relaxation. Enter the suites at Kauri Cliffs. I could stay in my hotel room for days on end, just gazing out the window at the magnificent nature from the comfort of my soaking tub. Colonial-style cottages are surrounded by native bush—offering privacy and stunning views, which include a towering 200-year-old Kauri tree. Each cottage is just a robed stroll away from the lodge spa, gym, and swimming pools.
For enhanced privacy and space, reserve one of the three new residences at Kauri Cliffs. The four-bedroom houses were built as retreats for the owners, yet are available to book when they aren't on property. Kauri Cliffs is in every way the ideal experience of New Zealand's coastal landscape—absolute bliss in the Bay of Islands, and only a mere 45-minute flight from the hub of Auckland.
The decadence doesn't stop there; halfway down the Northland coastline, tucked into the hillside of Hawke's Bay wine country, is The Farm at Cape Kidnappers, which overlooks luscious farmland bordering the Pacific Ocean. I sit in my room, sipping the finest wine the country has to offer, an open fire blazing while I lose myself in the vast seascape. Cape Kidnappers offers a different interpretation of the New Zealand countryside, showcasing functional farmland amidst the mountainous terrain, complete with sheep! The service alone at Cape Kidnappers reconceptualized my definition of a farm estate; it is like nothing I've experienced before. No need is too extravagant and no request is denied. Let’s just say I may now be a converted country girl.
Cape Kidnappers is also well known as a major attraction for their golf course, designed by Tom Doak, who creatively sculpted the natural terrain; the sixth hole is widely regarded as one of the great golf holes of the world. I supplement time on the green by riding horses through farmland with an impressive guide who details the farm's heritage. The next morning, we drive around the farm in a Can-Am off-roading buggy as I sip my morning coffee, feeling the ocean breeze tickle my face.
Evenings offer just as many ways to unwind as the days do to explore. One night, I join fellow guests for evening canapes and cocktails in the main lodge—where the floors are made of stone salvaged from a Tibetan monastery and the main entry doors were sourced from an old Mexican barn. When feeling less social, I opt to decompress in the stunning infinity pools and outdoor hot tub built into the cliffside, overlooking rolling hills. If neither tickles my fancy, I explore the gorgeous on-site spa, indulging in a Manuka honey facial that lulls me into a trance, leading into a fabulous night’s sleep. If only every day could end like this.
After basking in the Northland of New Zealand’s coastlines and countrysides, Robertson Lodges extends their reach south with Matakauri Lodge in Queenstown, on the South Island alongside the shores of Lake Wakatipu.
Matakauri Lodge has 12 suites and a four-bedroom Owner’s Cottage perched above the shores of Lake Wakatipu, each featuring fireplaces and heated floors. Private balconies and deep soaking bathtubs complete the transcendent setting.
The estate sports an expertly amassed menu, with a scrumptious breakfast, lunch, and dinner service at the lodge's restaurant, with the option to lounge in your room, digesting the lake and mountain views as well as the room service. Guests are also encouraged to mingle and wrap up the day with a drink at the complimentary reception held in the bar and lounge.
This is without a doubt the way to explore New Zealand. From the Pacific coastline in the Bay of Islands to wine country in Hawke's Bay, to the stunning glacial lakes in Queenstown, Robertson Lodges have brought together the best the country has to offer with stellar, immersive experiences. Marvel at the stunning sights, delight in the most delicious food, drink the finest wine, and absorb local culture through a personally orchestrated itinerary. However you choose to see New Zealand, look no further than Robertson Lodges… I might even see you there! *