Maximizing Moments August 2017

 

Named "Aotearoa" by the native Maori ("Land of the Long White Cloud"), New Zealand is a destination famed the world over for its staggering beauty. From snowy mountain ranges to pure blue lakes, wild coastlines and gorgeous beaches, nowhere else in the world packs more untouched natural wonder into such a sparsely populated place.

It may be the scenery people come for, but it's the easy charm of the ‘Kiwi' people that makes them want to stay. Ready smiles and heartfelt welcomes abound ther, a natural reflection of life in such a remote paradise.

I was recently on a Virutoso Study Tour to New Zealand, spending 2 days in Auckland and then setting out for destinations in both the North and South Islands with local DMC (Destination Management Company), Southern Crossings. From opulent escapes to adrenaline-pumping action, rugged rural beauty or just a beer with the local boys in a coastal pub, our itineraries were designed to pack in a diverse array of locations, lodges and experiences so we could come back with a true sense of what New Zealand has to offer our clients.  And, I can confidently state that it has something for everyone - really! It was a trip I will remember for the rest of my life!

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1. The Landscapes
It is impossible to overstate the natural splendor of the New Zealand landscape, and seeing it in person was jaw-dropping. For the bold, the unique views of iconic Queenstown await, from a morning heli-skiing untouched powder ridges, to a birds-eye view at dusk sky-diving from 15,000 feet. (Okay, we didn't heli-ski or sky-dive on our itinerary, but we easily could have, and we saw just where you would want to do both from the comfort and warmth of our helicopter).

For nature lovers, there are loads of golden-sand beaches, incredible geothermal areas, hiking in vast world-heritage protected national parks surrounded by the call of native birds, or playtime swimming with dolphins in the waters of the South Island. And, for those who just like to cruise, how about seeing gorgeous Central Otago on an easy bike ride, stopping at historic hotels to dine with friends and sample the region's (rightfully) esteemed Pinot Noir.

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2. Accommodations from the most luxurious to the more laid back.

New Zealand has an enviable reputation for offering high-end accommodation in wonderful hideaway locations, and there are options for every pace and style. The country's luxury lodges are world famous and have been welcoming guests for years. Having stayed at or visited many of them, we know which ones are the best of the best, and which is best suited to our clients' particular styles.

For a more intimate setting, there are several unique and luxurious country homes. These offer boutique accommodation of an exceptional standard, hosted by fascinating locals and worldly owners that have returned to New Zealand or made it their new home.

We experienced a number of amazing properties, each one unique to its own style and location - and there is literally the perfect place for everyone - everything from self-contained luxury villas, sporting ranches specializing in fishing, hunting and horseback riding, to country houses in vineyards and beachfront properties. And, while we are featuring luxury lodges and hotels in this blog, there are so many excellent and unique options for those on more moderate budgets that provide the same sense of place, so don't count this destination out!

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North Island

Auckland is an immensely varied region full of diverse activities and attractions. With a stunning natural landscape, beautiful beaches, outstanding food and wine, rich culture, great shopping and plenty of adventure. It is a city that has come into its own, and a number of new hotels are slated to come online over the next few years, including a Park Hyatt and Ritz-Carlton.

Waiheke Island is a haven of beautiful vineyards, olive groves and beaches, all just a 35-minute ferry ride from downtown Auckland. Although so close to the city, in landscape, lifestyle and experience, Waiheke is a world away, where you will find beautiful galleries and craft boutiques, plenty of places to enjoy a good coffee or a taste of New Zealand's fresh Pacific Rim cuisine. The island also boasts more than a dozen high-quality vineyards, many with relaxed restaurants onsite. Enjoy local wine while looking out over vine-covered valleys to the blue sea beyond.

We enjoyed a wine tasting and food pairing at Peacock Sky Vineyard, followed by an island inspired lunch at Mudbrick Vineyard and a tour of the property's unique accommodation options - wonderful for a romantic getaway, a multi-generational reunion, or a spectacular destination wedding.

Other islands to visit include Rangitoto Island, Great Barrier Island or the nature reserve of Tiritiri Matangi.

The Matakana region, just 45 minutes north of the city, is known for its superb wineries and boutique vineyards set amidst rolling countryside. This area is also known for its bustling Saturday Farmers’ Market, with fresh produce, gourmet food, condiments and more. We sampled some crepes, coffee, pastries, and other tasty delights on offer from local farmers, bakers and chefs.,on our way toward the stunning beaches of Tawharanui and Pakiri.

On our way back into Auckland, we stopped at Brick Bay Wines & Sculpture Trail Brick Bay is a boutique Matakana vineyard producing elegant estate grown wines, which we tasted in the Glass House prior to walking through the grounds to view some of the 50 works by New Zealand's leading sculptors.

We then flew to Wellington and drove 20 minutes to Weta Workshop, Richard Taylor's animation and special effects studio, where we had a private tour of the practical effects from some of our favorite films (Lord of the Rings, the Hobbit, among them). We held one of Mr. Taylor's 5 Oscars and also saw the usually kept under wraps Park Road Post Production offices, where the actual film editing takes place. Incredible!

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Wharekauhau Country Estate - Palliser Bay, The North Island
The plan was to helicopter to Wharekauhou Country Estate, but the weather wasn't cooperating (it was winter, after all, which brings the rain to the North Island), so we were treated to a dramatically scenic 3-hour drive (2 hours, in good weather) past Lake Wairarapa, and along the coast of Palliser Bay, home to the largest colony of fur seals on the North Island, where you can stop to visit one of the striking settings in Lord of the Rings at Kaitoke, or climb the 250 steps to the top of the Cape Palliser Lighthouse.

Recapturing the gracious lifestyle of a bygone era, Wharekauhou Country Estate, a Relais & Chateaux property, is a luxury lodge with award-winning style situated on a five thousand acre working farm on the Southeast coast of the North Island. Framed by the Rimutaka Ranges to the West and Palliser Bay to the east, the Lodge is surrounded by ancient, native forest, spectacular rugged beaches, bountiful rivers and tranquil lakes.

Dotted throughout the extensive grounds, each of the thirteen charming Cottage Suites is sumptuously furnished with magnificent ocean views and offers complete privacy and seclusion. The main lodge is modeled on the lines of an Edwardian country mansion with grand hall, open wood burning fireplaces, mullioned windows and country style kitchen. There is also a pool beyond a serene courtyard. A highlight of a visit to the Lodge is a tour of the sheep station, which may include a sheep shearing demonstration, sheep dogs in action and daily farm events.

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The Farm at Cape Kidnappers - Hawke's Bay, The North Island
The Pacific Ocean provides a stunning backdrop to Hawke's Bay - renowned as one of New Zealand's richest agricultural regions including viticulture. The long-established wine growing region has produced some of the finest wines of almost every variety.

Set atop six thousand rolling acres of spectacular pastureland and some of the most dramatic scenery in Hawke's Bay, The Farm at Cape Kidnappers represents all that is outstanding in the New Zealand Lodge experience stakes. The Lodge resembles a cluster of farm ranch buildings with 22 cottages plus the ultimate in luxury, the 4-bedroom Owner's Cottage. All are graciously scaled and full of natural light, with breathtaking views as they open to large porches overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Lodge facilities include two dining rooms, a covered loggia, lounge area, library, intimate sitting room and wine tasting room. Onsite activities include golf, hiking, gannet safari, Kiwi discovery walks, farm tours, fitness center, full service spa, Jacuzzi and pool.

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Huka Lodge - Taupo, The North Island
Taupo - the "Trout Fishing Capital of New Zealand" - is set on the shores of New Zealand's largest lake with awe-inspiring panoramic views of the diverse volcanic landscape, from the pristine lake to the surrounding mountain peaks of Ruapehu, Tongariro and Ngauruhoe.

Since it was founded in the 1920's, Huka Lodge has been sought by the world's most discerning travelers for its generous hospitality and magnificent location. This iconic retreat is consistently ranked among the very finest in the world and was the proud recipient of the Tatler Award for Enduring Excellence. The Lodge nestles among 17 acres of manicured gardens on the banks of the mighty Waikato River, upstream from the Huka Falls and within a protected nature reserve.

All 18 Junior Lodge Suites, one Suite and 2 Private Cottages enjoy superb turquoise-green river views. The Owner's Cottage and the Alan Pye Cottage are two of the world's most exclusive private hideaways and present the ultimate experience - offering the best of both worlds; total independence and privacy as well as all the Lodge's amenities. Every last detail for guest comfort has been considered and service is both solicitous and seamless.

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South Island
The more sparsely populated South Island (just over 1 million residents) is truly the scenic wonderland of New Zealand. From the Marlborough Sounds to the north of the island to the Fjordland National Park and World Heritage area in the southwest, the diversity of glaciers, lakes, mountains, ocean and vineyards creates a montage of perfect backdrops to each day's discoveries. Christchurch, knows as the "Garden City of New Zealand", is the international gateway to the South Island. Dunedin has a uniquely Scottish flavor, a university city characterized by many historic buildings, while Queenstown offers an adrenaline thrill to those who seek it with its array of adventurous activities.

The opportunities for a vast diversity of experiences include something for everyone. Meander through the vineyards of Marlborough, Nelson, North Canterbury and Central Otago. Seek a wonderful combination of bush and beach scenery in the Abel Tasman National Park. Savor the abundant fresh produce of the Marlborough province. Visit the isolated beaches and forests of the Marlborough Sounds and encounter whales and dolphins in Kaikoura. Explore the forests and alpine wilderness of the Southern Alps. Take a fixed wing aircraft or helicopter flight over the spectacular mountain terrain including Aoraki Mount Cook. Discover the ruggest West Coast, helihike on ancient glaciers on Franz Josef and Fox Glacier; discover the finest "pounamu" (jade) in Hokitika. Ski some of the steepest vertical in the world in the Southern Alps. Sky dive, hike, fly fish - you name it, the South Island is an adrenaline junky's dream come true!

Try wilderness trout fishing in clear fast-running rivers. Cruise Milford Sound or discover the majestic wonder of Doubtful Sound. Queenstown is a true alpine paradise set on the shores of Lake Wakatipu. A plethora of year round activities awaits visitors, and the dining and shopping is exceptional.

Enjoy the understated delights of Lake Wanaka; hike in the Mt. Aspiring National Park; visit Central Otago vineyards or uncover hidden gems and emerging artists at local galleries.

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Otahuna Lodge
Christchurch, also known as the "Garden City of New Zealand", has so much to offer visitors, including historic architecture, art galleries, parks, landscaped gardens and the River Avon meandering through the city center, creating a tranquil and charming atmosphere, reminiscent of the city's English heritage.

Built in 1895 for Canterbury pioneer Sir Heaton Rhodes, Otahuna Lodge is one of the best examples of Queen Anne architecture in Australasia and is protected by the New Zealand Historic Places Trust. A member of Relais & Chateaux, the Lodge is an exclusive retreat offering seven individual suites. The two Master Suites and five Suites retain grand architectural features, from the nineteenth century such as ornate wood-burning fireplaces, carved inglenooks and stained glass windows.

Food and wine are an integral part of the experience, with a menu that celebrates the best of fresh New Zealand produce with an emphasis on seasonal estate-grown offerings from its own vast organic kitchen gardens. Awarded "New Zealand Garden of National Significance" status in 2009, the spectacular 115-year old grounds stretch over 30 acres.

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Annandale - Banks Peninsula, South Island
The unique landscape of Banks Peninsula consists of exposed contours and complex coastline - breathtakingly dramatic yet largely undiscovered. The peninsula is named after Sir Joseph Banks, the renowned botanist on board the Endeavour when Captain Cook made his first circumnavigation of New Zealand in 1770, and a large number of New Zealand's unique bird and plant species can be seen at Annandale and in the surrounding area.

In an area of outstanding beauty lies Annandale, an iconic farm escape offering four award-winning luxury villas with relaxed Kiwi-style informality. The centerpiece of the historic farm established in 1843 is the restored 5 bedroom Annandale Homestead surrounded by magnificent gardens. Authentic, rustic, and thoroughly charming, the historic Shephard's Cottage provides an inspiring rural retreat for two. Scrubby Bay, where we enjoyed a lovely lunch after a short heli ride from Christchurch, is a luxurious 4 bedroom cedar clad beach house in its own bay and the perfect location for a once-in-a-lifetime celebration. The sparkling jewel in Annandale's crown is Seascape, an ultra modern one bedroom steel and glass retreat situated in a private bay only accessible by 4WD or helicopter. With 10 kilometers of coastline, Annandale boasts 4,000 acres, 500 cattle and between 7,000 and 14,000 sheep. The aim is to breed the finest stock for the most delicious meat and best quality wool, while providing farm-to-table cuisine.

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Matakauri Lodge - Queenstown, South Island
Queenstown, known as the "Adventure Capital of the World", is set on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, amid the towering peaks of the Southern Alps.  The scenery provides a perfect backdrop for endless activities and an idyllic haven in which to relax.

On splendid, mysterious Lake Wakatipu, the cradle of ancient Maori legends and one of the most serene landscapes in the world, Matakauri Lodge offers stunning views of the mountain ranges. Each of the beautiful suites has a private porch, bedroom with sitting area and open fireplace, a walk-in wardrobe and bathroom. Eight of them are outlying, the three other are housed in the main lodge, which also boasts a spacious lounge, dining and living areas with views of the lake. A magnificent spa with pool, sauna and fitness centre all combine to make this the ideal retreat, just seven minutes from Queenstown.

Matakauri Lodge is the second of the 3 lodges owned by Julian Robertson we visited during our Educational tour. Mr. Robertson also owns The Farm at Cape Kidnappers on Hawke's Bay, North Island and The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs, located on Matauri Bay, Northland, North Island.

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Eichardt's Private Hotel - Queenstown, South Island

Eichardt's Private Hotel provides elegant stylish accommodation in five luxurious hotel suites in the original historic building, with a further two lakeview suites and the ultimate luxurious penthouse joining in the recently completed extension. Situated on a premium lakefront position at the heart of vibrant Queenstown, Eichardt's is a stunning example of contemporary provincial elegance and features unsurpassed mountain and lakefront views. Eichardt's Lakefront Apartments, meters from the main hotel, offer one, two and three bedroom and the split level suites are interconnected and can be designed to become a large single accommodation space or divided according to individual requirement. Eichardt's Residence, situated a short stroll from the hotel, is a beautifully appointed three bedroom self-contained villa, which is fully serviced by the hotel and supported by concierge services.

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3.  The Flora and Fauna

New Zealand's high rainfall and many sunshine hours give the country a lush and diverse flora – with 80 percent of the trees, ferns, and flowering plants being native. From the kauri forests of the far north to the mountain beech forests and alpine tussock of the Southern Alps, you will find fascinating plants and trees in every region. You will be awed by the majestic evergreen native forests that include rimu, totara, many varieties of beech, and the largest native tree of them all, the giant kauri. Underneath the trees you will find a dense and luxurious undergrowth including countless native shrubs, a variety of ferns, and many mosses and lichens.

About 80-100 million years ago, New Zealand drifted away from the massive supercontinent of Gondwanaland into the South Pacific. Since then, a unique flora and fauna has evolved, with a large number of beautiful native birds (including the national icon, the flightless Kiwi) and plants, as well as direct descendants of prehistoric wildlife, including the tuatara, weta, and giant snail.

During our travels through the country, we encountered the little blue penguin, baby fur seals, sea lions, and dusky dolphins. Unfortunately, the season was not favorable for kiwis, albatross, whales and gannets.

Thank you for reading Maximizing Moments!