A luxury travel trip to New Zealand, tasting the best southern hideaways
October 19th, 2008 | by Tom |Article Tags: gastronomy, lodge, new zealand
Tasting the best southern hideaways in NZ – just an occupational hazard!
This was the luxury journey to end all luxury trips: staying at four of the best resorts in New Zealand – three of them judged among the best hideaway spots in the world. The assignment: Six days and seven nights to enjoy Matakauri, Blanket Bay, Eichardt’s and Millbrook in and around Queenstown.
My wife Chrissy and I land at the Adventure Capital of the world at 5pm and threw ourselves at the mercy of the warm and sincere staff at Matakauri Lodge – one of the top 101 hotels of the world according to Tatler magazine.
General manager Grant Alley and his staff were first rate – our room had a stunning view – we were in heaven. We even received a little Kiwi fluffy soft toy as a go-away present.
Next day we go on a romantic cruise to Walter Peak on the 96-year old ferry the Earnslaw, known as the Lady of the Lake. In the afternoon it’s a helicopter ride around the glaciers and dazzling white mountain tops, with Heliworks. Our pilot Steve Scott is a fantastic guy. Heliworks has been involved in filming Peter Jackson’s movies. Another of their pilots Alfie Speight is big in the Kiwi film industry.
We get back to our sanctuary at Matakauri, among the tui, native frogs and lakeside setting. The next morning we trundle around the lake to Blanket Bay, twice rated by Harper’s as one of the two most romantic hideaways in the world.
Blanket Bay
Blanket Bay is a place every couple who can save $1500 once in their life should go and spend a night at. It is the grandest lodge ever.
I loved the heavily texture wood : massive grey weathered supports and fine furniture pieces with burnished rich patina. Philip Jenkins is a brilliant general manager with a superb dry wit. The local staff were excellent. Unlike some lodges, Philip insisted there was no dress code.
Their games room was a blokesy den with a free bar. Before tea, I did a 30 minute jog through the bush and then around the shore edge of the lake back to the hotel: if felt like running in paradise. My seared grouper meal and Corbans Cottage Block chardonnay made me feel even better.
Room No. 2 in the world’s best small hotel
Next day I drive back to Queenstown, where I spend the night at Eichardt’s – judged the best small hotel in the world three or four years ago. My suite, room No.2, is possible the best appointed I have ever stayed in. Victoria, Charlotte, Catherine and all the Eichardt’s staff could not be more caring and helpful. The massive possum fur rug on my bed was an utterly romantic touch. Their service is second to none. They became great friends.
I go out for dinner on the Steamer Wharf at the Wai, which according to the Cafe magazine is one of the best restaurants in NZ. I can see why! I melted on the line caught grouper – flown in especially for Wai from Fiordland. And all washed down by a stunning glass of Hunter’s sauvignon blanc.
The next day I head to the expansive lodge and golf resort of Millbrook – I loved the painting in my villa lounge – because behind it is the secret flat screen tv! My steam infusion spa was so relaxing and envigorating – thanks to the wonderful therapist Minaxie Daya. Outstanding marketing manager Sarah Stacey looked after me superbly and I so want to return to Millbrook. There is so much to see in these parts with wineries, rides, bungy jumps, skiing. I’ll have to come back next year.
Text – Kip Brook, Word of Mouth Media NZ | www.wordofmouthnz.com
BOOKING & INFORMATION:
Transport: Jucy car rentals www.jucy.co.nz
Flights: Air New Zealand www.airnewzealand.co.nz
Accommodation:
www.matakauri.co.nz
www.blanketbay.com
www.eichardtshotel.co.nz
www.millbrook.co.nz
Restaurant: www.wai.net.nz
What to do, where to stay, what to see: www.queenstown-nz.co.nz
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