Mr & Mrs Smith

The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs

Bay of Islands, New Zealand

Set amid 6,000 acres of sprawling hills near Matauri Bay (four hours' drive from Auckland), with jaw-dropping vistas of Cape Brett and the offshore Cavalli Islands, The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs is as spacious as it’s seductive. Soak up panoramic Pacific Ocean views from this elegant boutique hotel in New Zealand’s North Island, which boasts blissful beaches, a soothing spa and its own championship golf course perched atop the cliffs.

Need to know

• Rooms 22 suites (six standard, 16 deluxe), and the two-bedroom Owner’s Cottage.
• Rates Double rooms from $1231.11 (NZD1,520), excluding tax at 15 per cent.
  The price shown represents the lowest nightly rate for a double room available at this hotel over the next 21 days. Any price conversions from the hotel's local currency (NZD1,520) have been conducted using today's exchange rates from xe.com.
• More details Rates include include pre-dinner drinks with hors d’oeuvres, gourmet dinner, breakfast, free minibar including domestic beers (excludes spirits and wine) and use of lodge facilities, except spa treatments and use of the golf course.
• Facilities Free WiFi throughout, spa, sauna, Jacuzzi, gym, 18-hole golf course, practice range, putting and chipping greens, golf shop, Callaway clubs for hire. Tennis courts, clay-pigeon shooting and mountain bikes. In rooms: TV, DVD/CD player, minibar, Evolu toiletries and private porch.
• Poolside Set away from the main lodge for maximum privacy, the infinity pool overlooks the golf course and ocean. But with three secluded swimming beaches nearby and a Jacuzzi, it’s got stiff competition.
• Check-out 11am, but flexible subject to availability. Check-in, 2pm.
• Children Under-fives can share for free using existing bedding. Baby cots available for no charge; extra beds possible for deluxe suites only (from NZ$500–$525 a night, depending on the season, plus tax). More...
• Also The lodge and guest rooms are all non-smoking. The lodge offers two smaller bedrooms (each with twin beds) that may be perfect for your security, drivers or staff, if you’re travelling with an entourage.

Food and drink at The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs

• Hotel restaurant

  The Lodge’s dining room has a warm, relaxed farmhouse feel and a great open veranda. Executive chef Barry Frith oversees the daily-changing à la carte menu, which specialises in modern, seasonal, local dishes including New Zealand lamb, beef and seafood. Take advice from the sommelier, as her knowledge and top tips can make your meal one to remember.

• Dress code Glam golfing threads. If you don’t have your own golf gear, there’s a shop at the hotel where you can pick up the latest NZ and global labels, from Fairway & Greene to Polo. Jackets are required for gents for cocktails and dinner.
• Top table A balcony table for island-studded ocean views – they’re all-weather-friendly thanks to heaters and wind shields. In winter, romantics should set up camp by the indoor fireplace.
• Last orders Around 10pm, but room service and flexible private dining can be arranged.
• Room service Available 7am–10pm, with a daily-changing menu.
• Hotel bar

  Kauri Cliffs’ inviting cocktail hour from 6.30pm is an ideal time to hobnob with fellow guests. There’s no bar as such, but free wine, beers and canapés are served on the veranda to tinkling piano and jazz music.

Also worth knowing

• Weddings This property is suitable for weddings. More...

The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs Tepene Tablelands Road, Matauri Bay, Bay Of Islands, Kerikeri 0245