ENDLESS SUMMER

As New Zealand’s summer continues we dream of glorious beaches with soft white sand squeaking between our toes, hidden coves,giant sand dunes, swimming with dolphins. Or playing golf at stunning world-class courses and maybe big-game fishing in the beautiful Bay of Islands. Some of us just want to relax with a glass of New Zealand wine and dine on exquisite cuisine looking out at unforgettable views.

Our boutique collection brings you small luxury lodges and villas, giving one a sense of calm and real opportunity to just unwind Let us take you on a journey through New Zealand’s magical North Island.

You’ve arrived at Auckland International Airport after a long flight and just need to unwind in a peaceful oasis.

Mollies luxury boutique hotel in Auckland is the perfect place to start your journey. Set in beautiful gardens overlooking the Waitemata Harbour in historic St Mary’s bay. Enter an immediate sense of calm, to exquisite living areas and spacious suites; each with a private patio or balcony featuring views to the harbour or manicured gardens. Relax with a glass of wine and dine in – let chef create a degustation dinner for you to enjoy.

Or, experience ‘sand between your toes’ luxury at The Boatshed on Waiheke Island. Take a helicopter trip directly from the airport, or a 35-minute ferry ride from downtown Auckland. The Boatshed awaits – chic accommodation, light and airy suites, offering stunning sea views. Choose to dine here – imagine drinks and canapes on the spacious decking the sea views enticing you to unwind, then relax over a romantic dinner created by Chef. Waiheke Island offers fantastic beaches, with a sophisticated mix of vineyards, coastal walks and alfresco restaurants

Now you are totally relaxed, the stunning beaches of Northland beckon; just a 3-hour drive north of Auckland. Discover Huntaway Lodge, nestled on a hill overlooking gorgeous ocean vistas. Stay in The Retreat Suite with its infinity bathtub, separate living and private decks with endless ocean views. Hosted by Victoria, who creates the freshest cuisine with line-caught fish from local bays. Soak in the outdoor spa, glass of wine in hand, and enjoy the ocean views. Huntaway Lodge is a 10-minute drive to Kauri Cliffs golf course and a one-hour drive to Carrington golf course in Doubtless Bay.

Prefer to be totally alone? Cloud 9 Luxury Villa offers luxurious private spaces; fabulous views over the Bay of Islands, private infinity pool and spa,large decks and just a 2-minute drive to historic Russell township. From here you too can drive to both Kauri Cliffs and Carrington golf courses – approximately 1 to 1.30 minutes drive from your villa.

You’re into holiday mode – drive south and visit New Zealand’s largest lake – Lake Taupo. Surrounded by mountains and offering exciting geothermal pools and geysers, award winning golf courses; Kinloch and Wairakei.

 Chic and stylish Acacia Cliffs Lodge has fabulous hosts and exquisite cuisine. Dine overlooking the twinkling lights of Taupo and enjoy fine wines and the company of your hosts and other guests.Wonderful lake and mountain views from your spacious and luxurious suite. Take a mountain bike for a spin, fish off the edge of the lake, play golf or walk the famous Tongariro crossing.

Or choose an exclusive Lodge experience at The Point Villas. Located in a private, wooded and gated community, two spacious luxurious villas, each offer 2 bedrooms with beautiful ensuites (shower with a view). Each villa features its own private swimming pool and both villas have stunning lake views.Take the full lodge experience with a chef to cook for you, choose to have chef prepared meals  delivered to your villa to simply heat and eat. Or, if you really just want to be alone and self-cater – the choice is yours.

You really must visit the famous wine-growing region of Hawke’s Bay. It’s just an hour’s drive across the island from Taupo. Stay at stately Glen Aros Country Estate, offering luxurious accommodation,set in beautiful parklands of trees and gardens. Their Michelin experienced chef will create stunning cuisine – accompany with award winning New Zealand wines chosen from their extensive wine library. Play golf at Bridge Pa, cycle the vines, visit the art-deco city of Napier. Relax in the infinity pool and spa – a peaceful, country escape.

Alternatively you could dive west towards the seaside city of New Plymouth, home to arts and sculpture, magnificent parks and gardens and a coastal walkway. New Plymouth is approximately 3.5 hours drive from Taupo. Stay at Nice Hotel – a quirky yet luxurious boutique hotel, offering a choice of rooms or suites and the award winning Table restaurant.

Here your North Island journey with Boutique Hotels & Loges has ended. Next time we’ll take you through the magnificent South Island.