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Locay Explores New Zealand's Most Unique Luxury Lodges

Lodging large. We locate New Zealand's most private lodges fit for royalty.

New Zealand is making waves with their luxury lodge experiences, and it's not hard to see why. Perhaps it's the cooler temperatures that add an extra opportunity for warmth and comfort to every design texture, or maybe it's their focus on minimising their tourism footprint that sets these architectural feats placed within raw, vast natural landscapes.

With helicopter pads, organic farms, private vineyards and direct access to some of the most renowned golf greens, these locations offer a refined and exclusive experience that's hard to come by. Whether you're a discerning traveler with an eye for quality and detail, or you're simply looking for a unique escape without the flocks of tourists, New Zealand's luxury lodges are a true standout in the world of lodging.

When it comes to finding the perfect property, the best lodge options vary depending on who and what you are looking to accommodate. Whilst lodges are often providing private, contemporary designs and seclusion for couples, luxury need not always be such a solo endeavour. Group travel is emerging as an affordable way to experience these stand-out locations. With social media images beckoning groups to that extra special photo opportunity, lodges that were previously only attainable for the well-heeled individual now become an achievable goal for a group.

If you’re after a week away from city life and are eager to authentically discover the New Zealand landscape with a hike or private lake cruise, we have the lodge for you.

These exquisite properties offer all-inclusive packages that cover your stay, dining and tour experiences. Check out Locay's most spectacular lodge concepts for your most memorable home away from home yet.

The Farm at Cape Kidnappers

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Te Awanga | Hawkes Bay | North Island

Far out to the east of Hawke’s Bay wine country, The Farm at Cape Kidnappers sits atop rolling hills and rugged cliffs that give way to vast sea views and a never-present horizon. Home to not only a lodge and spa, this unique property also boasts one of the world’s top golf courses, a sanctuary for some of New Zealand’s most precious flora and fauna, and a working farm.

Warm and enveloping, Cape Kidnappers generous suites offer sumptuous comfort and awe-inspiring views in equal parts. The eight Ridge Suites are deluxe category suites, set atop a skyline ridge with uninterrupted across the Hawke’s Bay. Spacious and with full wet minibars, the Suites include a luxurious seating area beside a fireplace that opens out to a large private balcony.

King or twin single beds are available as is the decadence of a walk-in wardrobe. You will be staying close to lodge facilities including the pool, spa and main lodge buildings. Cape Kidnappers also delivers stunning exclusive guest experiences including the Can-Am Farm Tour, Kiwi Discovery Walk,Cape Kidnappers Gannet Colony and much more.

The Landing Residences - The Cooper Residence

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Wairoa Bay | Bay of Islands | North Island

Spacious and relaxed, with breathtaking views from every angle, the architecturally designed, luxuriously furnished residences are perfectly at one with the landscape upon which they sit.

A place steeped in cultural significance and blessed with a rich natural bounty; The Landing is the jewel in the crown of the Bay of Islands. The Purerua Peninsula, is one of the most exquisite places in the world – a coastal paradise of turquoise water and white sands lining a verdant patchwork of rolling farmland and native forests.

There are four different accommodation options at The Landing; Cooper Residence, Gabriel Residence, Vineyard Villa and The Boathouse. Fashioned with sumptuous organic elements, each residence boasts its own breathtaking vision of New Zealand's quintessential vistas—be it the dramatic cliffs, the lush vineyards, or the pastoral expanses.

Mudbrick Cottages

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Waiheke Island | Auckland | North Island

Located in Auckland’s Hauraki Gulf on Waiheke Island the Mudbrick Vineyard is famous for its rich and diverse wine vintages as it’s unique, distinctively different properties available for your perusal, located on and off-site. A fantastic way to explore everything this picturesque island has to offer.

Extend the magic by staying overnight after exploring Mudbrick’s variety of Waiheke Island-produced, hand-picked and harvested bespoke wines.

There is a variety of properties available including the uber gorgeous Owner's Retreat for the ultimate in privacy, a 360 degree panoramic sea view, stunning sunsets, indoor and outdoor fireplaces and a clifftop spa pool. All within 7 minutes' drive from the main village of Oneroa.

There’s also The Settlers Hut – a tiny house with a wonderful historical past - starting life as an Army Hut, located at the “Man O War” Bay. It has now been lovingly restored with a large covered deck - used very much as the living room - with comfortable outdoor seating and a BBQ on the deck, designed for pure relaxation.

The hut comes equipped with packs of playing cards, board games and books for your entertainment bliss. But don’t worry, it’s still got ultra fast broadband! Snuggle on the bed, watch a movie and chill to your heart's content – it’s about getting away and doing exactly what you find relaxing.

Dine in the Flagship Mudbrick restaurant for a sensory and romantic culinary experience or relaxing the modern bistro The Archive, serving island inspired dishes.

Both restaurants sit on the ridge overlooking the sparkling waters of the Hauraki Gulf and back to Auckland city.

Bay of Many Coves Resort

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Queen Charlotte Sound | Picton | North Island

Discover the quiet seclusion and luxury of the Bay of Many Coves, no matter the season.

A luxury five-star resort, set in the heart of Queen Charlotte Sound, Marlborough on New Zealand’s South Island. Nestled between stunning native bush and our secluded bay, you will enjoy an unforgettable experience: Whether you are seeking world-class cuisine, breath-taking scenery, adventure, or simply a sense of renewal, you will find it here, whatever the season.

Whether you arrive by boat or by air, you will soon find yourself in a secluded location, in the heart of the Marlborough Sounds, nestled between the bush and the sea. Immerse yourself in this pristine natural setting, revile in the hospitality, and recharge your batteries. 

There are four different properties to choose from: Kereru Suite including a discreet private entrance that leads to your cozy and beautifully appointed suite. Two bedrooms each with a superbly appointed shower ensuite. The rooms connect to a contemporary lounge, with its own fireplace. A wide private balcony with sweeping views across the Queen Charlotte Sound will take your breath away.

Or choose from three different apartments with multiple bedrooms for family accommodation experiences. Featuring architect-designed living areas, luxurious bedrooms, and beautifully-appointed bathrooms, these versatile apartments are comfortable and warm with a natural wood interior. Soak-up uninterrupted views of the Marlborough Sounds from your private balcony.

The internationally-renowned Queen Charlotte walking track awaits you on our doorstep, along with other adventures. And, with world-class chefs close at hand, yours will be an experience you won't forget.

Hapuku Lodge & Tree Houses

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Kaikoura | Canterbury | South Island

Hapuku Lodge + Tree Houses is a contemporary country hotel located on a deer breeding farm in the South Island of New Zealand, 12 kilometres North of the renowned eco-marine town of Kaikoura. Sitting snugly at the base of the Kaikoura Seaward Mountain Range, with the Kaikoura coast and famed Mangamaunu Bay only a kilometre to the east. 

The Lodge provides luxurious accommodation on Kaikoura’s rugged coastline, a place for guests to relax in its intimate indoor/outdoor setting and a place from which they can explore the larger maritime landscape of Kaikoura.

The Lodge’s five tree houses are unique, nested 10 meters or more above the ground in the canopy of a native Kanuka grove. The Tree Houses are designed to complement the natural environment, as your bedroom in the sky. Their large windows bring the tree canopies into the bedroom and provide impressive views of Kaikoura's dramatic mountains and the Pacific Ocean.

Today the dining room at the Lodge, with its relaxed and warm atmosphere, is at the heart of the Hapuku Lodge experience. Here you can watch the food being prepared and chat with the chefs as they prepare your meal. You will realise during your stay that the Lodge has a passion for food - the producing of it, the preparation and cooking and presentation. Eating with at Hapuka Lodge will enhance and deepen your appreciation of what New Zealand has to offer. 

All tariffs include 3-course gourmet dinners and full breakfasts.

Minaret Station Alpine Lodge

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Wanaka | Otago | South Island

On the rugged South Island, Minaret Station provides guests with a taste of New Zealand’s great outdoors, offering warmth and authenticity at every turn. Family owned, with more than fifty years hosting guests from all around the world. There are two offerings here: accommodation and exclusive tour experiences at one of the most secluded and private luxury lodges in the world. Remotely positioned in a high alpine meadow at 3,000ft, surrounded by incredible mountain views has just four private chalets. Bordered by National Parks, mountains and Lake Wanaka, there are no roads at all leading to Minaret Station, so access is only possible by helicopter. All very James Bond.

At Minaret Alpine Lodge guests enjoy privacy and comfort enveloped by tasteful high-country design. Each of the four chalets on the remote property features a king-sized bed, ensuite bathroom, hot tub, and private deck where you can relax and unwind beneath the stars.

Central to the Alpine Lodge is the Mountain Kitchen. Linked to the chalets by a series of raised wooden boardwalks, the kitchen features two separate living areas, wood-burning fires, a well-stocked library, cellar and first-class dining facilities.

Enjoy a remarkable privately guided helicopter day adventure with the team at Minaret Station. Go beyond the beaten path as our guides and pilots share the beauty of Fiordland, Milford Sound, Dusky Sound, Aoraki Mt Cook and the many National Parks. Or seek deeper adventures with back country fly fishing, heli-skiing, hiking, mountain biking and guided hunting. Minaret Station Experiences are hosted by friendly, professional guides and feature the outstanding food and service for which they are renowned.

Kinloch Manor and Villa's

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Kinloch | Lake Taupo | North Island

At Kinloch Manor step into a world of unapologetic elegance, where open terraces frame sweeping vistas which flow seamlessly into calm interiors. Escape to a world of bold luxury, where intimate surroundings bid you welcome and celebrate the brave of heart and the adventurous of spirit.

Immerse yourself in contemporary comfort reflecting a unique sense of originality and style. The perfect expression of individuality where distinctive spaces celebrate difference and soothe the soul.

With five different properties to choose from suitable for solo travellers, couples or groups.

Rise and greet the day with breakfast overlooking stunning views out over the golden hills and green fairways of the estate, sweeping down to the sparkling waters of Lake Taupo. Bask in serene sophistication as you relax in spacious comfort in a peaceful atmosphere with beautiful oak floors, a carbon-neutral fireplace in both your living room and private den bedroom, sumptuous handmade New Zealand wool rugs, and standalone bathtub. Head out in search of adventure and explore the area, all from your centrally located luxury retreat

Each well-appointed residence includes laundry facilities, a full kitchen and dining area, a furnished private terrace, and a private courtyard for outside dining.

Dine at the in-house restaurant overlooking Lake Taupo as you embark on a journey of culinary exploration, from estate to plate, where dishes are expertly crafted to elevate fresh seasonal ingredients. Using near 100%pesticide-free, organic produce from the onsite farm and garden reared herbs and vegetables. Matched, of course, with New Zealand fine wines.

There's even a Jack Nicklaus designed 18-hole Signature Championship Golf Course if you’re in the mood for a swing!

Huka Lodge

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Lake Taupo | Taupo | North Island

Long regarded as one of the world’s most revered and inspirational luxury accommodations, Huka Lodge is set among established gardens along the banks of the surging Waikato River near Lake Taupō on New Zealand’s North Island.

With humble beginnings nearly a century ago as a fishermen’s camp made famous for its trout-rich waters and featuring white canvas tents along the river’s edge, today Huka Lodge has secured its place as one of the country’s oldest and celebrated luxury lodge with an impressive heritage, welcoming some of the world’s most influential guests to the region.

Featuring twenty Junior Lodge guest suites and two exclusive multi-bedroom owners’ residences, the Alan Pye and Alex van Heeren Cottages, dotted cross the 17-acre Huka Lodge parkland. Each privately set and opening onto verdant views of the gardens and beyond to the flowing, deep turquoise WaikatoRiver.

All residences include: King or twin king-single beds, intimate lounge areas, ensuite bathrooms with deep bathes, dressing rooms, outdoor verandas with day-bed and floor to ceiling glass windows that take in the magnificent river views.

The two owners’ cottages are designed to provide the ultimate Huka Lodge hospitality experience. Both perfect venues for exclusive gatherings of your family and friends. Here, guests enjoy the best of both worlds: a private self-contained residence with access to all the Huka Lodge luxuries.  

The ever-changing Waikato River and broader Taupō region provide a magnificent natural setting for Huka Lodge.

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