New Zealand is hard to beat when it comes to getting away from it all and we say that the 17-acre Huka Lodge might just do the trick for your VIPs. Located in Taupo, the lodge has been a popular retreat since the 1920s, with the exclusive four-bedroom Owner’s Cottage always in demand.
Now, visitors to Huka Lodge have another option for a private getaway. The Alan Pye Cottage opened late last year, and has become a popular choice for vacationers in just a few months. (We are told that Oscar-winning director Peter Jackson has already stayed there.)
The Cottage has two large and swanky bedrooms with fireplaces, en-suite bathrooms and generous dressing rooms. The open-plan living room has a large brick fireplace, and a study tucked away with desk, plasma TV and sound system. Nice Touch: This room also has its own bathroom, great for guests.
The kitchen is equipped for a personal chef, so guests can either choose to dine in-room or wander over to the main Lodge and eat with others staying at the lodge. A laundry is also available at the Cottage. (Naturally, guests have access to all Huka Lodge facilities and services.)
On their first evening, most guests eat in the main dining room overlooking the Waikato River. Thereafter, they can tour the 20-plus private dining spots on property and eat at a different area every night of their stay—from a table for two in the wine cellar to a patio over the river. Cozy Touch: In cooler weather, outdoor fireplaces are lit and woolen blankets are set up on the chairs, letting guests snuggle up after dinner.
A heated infinity swimming pool and a separate private spa pool have been integrated into the outdoor landscape. There is also a stone outdoor pavilion in a courtyard garden where guests can gather around yet another fireplace.
Rates at the Cottage cover a daily five-course dinner and full breakfast. Luxury travel advisors can contact Resident Manager Mark Wouters ([email protected]; 011-64-7378-5791).