A ROOM WITH A VIEW

Treetops

Make this visit your playground and you will not want to rejoin State Highway 30. This is the ultimate luxury lodge and wilderness experience.

After a twenty minute drive from Rotorua, I arrived in this remote spot in the native forest. Within seconds I knew I had found a special sanctuary. The manager explained to me how the owners had followed a dream and wanted to share it with their guests. They have certainly achieved that.

The Great Room is like a cathedral with stunning views and a silence which is much needed these days. The public rooms are cosy and ideal for relaxation.

There are 100 kilometres of walking and jogging tracks in the forest, where you are unlikely to meet anyone else. The lush bushes hide many birds and insects, all singing in harmony. Trout streams and ponds also surround the estate. A welcoming lodge that is ideal for relaxation and where you will really feel at home.

Lambton Heights

Wellington, a small and compact capital city, has a range of attractions, including the Te Papa Museum, the Historical and Maritime Museum, and the Westpac rugby stadium. I recommend a stroll along Oriental Bay or in the Botanic Gardens, watching a large colony of fur seals or experience the rare native wildlife at Karori Sanctuary.

After the bustle of this town, I made my way to the hills above the harbour to find Lambton Heights, a boutique Bed and Breakfast. The graceful owners made me feel so welcome. I met them for drinks and canapés, when they not only suggested dining in Cuba Street but gave me a lift downtown. The choice was impeccable and coming home to my lovely room was such a delight. John and Cushla took care of my every needs.

Remarkables Lodge

I left Queenstown to find this lodge tucked away in the country, ideally located under “The Remarkables” mountains. As soon as I went through the open gate I was met by the owners, Brian and Colleen, and sat in the lounge, whilst more wood was put in the fire and tea and biscuits were served.

My room was spacious and well furnished with fresh flowers, chocolate, water, and magazines. I could not resist a soak in the huge bath, pampering myself with all the complimentary toiletries. Under the floor heating and a decent hairdryer are just some of the little touches to the lodge which really make a difference.

I am already missing Chef Demian, who always surprised us with his culinary delights. On the menu was seared prawns with avocado in shaved fennel salad in a Chardonnay dressing, followed by a rack of Cardrona Valley Merino Lamb with roasted Mediterranean vegetables and soft polenta. To finish, chocolate rum and raisin pudding and crème Anglaise, cheese and port and coffee and truffles.

The charming hosts made the evening flow - and the selection of fine wines help to break any shyness! When I pulled the curtains closed, after such a marvellous dinner, I was thinking the mountains were calling me…

Riverrun

Wanaka is a serious destination for climbers and walkers, with little nightlife, an hour North East of Queens Town. Riverrun is quite an informal lodge, the owners also manage a farm. John and Meg came to this area to build a lodge from reclaimed wood so every detail has a history. On elevated grounds, every room has a view. The best is from the outdoor hot spa under the stars.

The chef was busy catering for his ten guests - baking fresh bread and making delicious chutneys and preserves. He only uses fresh local produce with a selection of well chosen wines from Central Otago Valley.

Outdoor activities are available for all levels of fitness. The owners have tested many walks and can give useful advice. The Helipad is next door so a private helicopter ride to Milford Sound is such a treat.