Eager travelers to New Zealand have just been blessed with an early reopening of their borders to Americans much sooner than anticipated. Starting May 1st, Americans will now be allowed to travel back, without self-isolation, to one of the most bucket-list worthy destinations.
The land, lusher and more breathtaking than ever, the streams now overflowing with fish, and the air available in its purest form, all compliment the fervent New Zealanders who are as excited as we are to see their country reopen to the world after over 2 years of isolation, and the NZ$1.1 billion investment the government has made to restart the economy while focusing on the environment.
The Robertson Lodges’ all-inclusive resorts are perfect for travelers seeking anything from adrenaline and adventure to luxury, romance, unique cultural history and experiences, golf, fishing, and multi-generational family vacations. The three distinctive resorts offer the ultimate New Zealand experience, where guests can experience New Zealand from top to bottom, staying on the coast at Kauri Cliffs, enjoying the farm at Cape Kidnappers, or the mountainous thrill at Matakauri (see more below).
With the launch of new direct flight from New York on September 17th, and the already existing flights from Los Angeles, Auckland is a non-stop overnight flight made to wake up in paradise. Prior to the pandemic you could also fly to New Zealand non-stop from San Francisco, Vancouver, Houston, Chicago, and Honolulu, with all these routes scheduled to return in 2022.
Robertson Lodges – New Zealand (www.robertsonlodges.com)
A trio of stunning landscapes, Kauri Cliffs, Cape Kidnappers and Matakauri form a string of luxurious destinations spanning the length of New Zealand. Each distinct and authentic to the regions they inhabit, Robertson Lodges offer guests the finest accommodation, decadent cuisine and exceptional service. These award-winning properties offer a range of leisure activities to complete the experience, with full service spa and fitness facilities, golf, nature walks and natural encounters all available to guests. The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs, The Farm at Cape Kidnappers, and Matakauri Lodge are members of Relais & Chateaux.
The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs – Matauri Bay, North Island (www.kauricliffs.com)
Set on 6,000-acres, The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs affords breathtaking 180-degree views of the Pacific Ocean and Totara forest. The lodge offers 22 luxurious suites, three four-bedroom Residences and a Two Bedroom Owner’s Cottage. Abound with three private beaches, a waterfall, spa complex, two tennis courts, infinity pool and hot tub, fitness center and a world class Par 72 PGA championship golf course, ranked 37th in the world on Golf Digest Magazine’s ‘World’s 100 Greatest Golf Courses’ list. The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs offers limitless pursuits ideal for golf enthusiasts, spa-goers, families and large groups alike. Additional on-site activities include hiking, mountain biking, guided bird watching, nature walks, land-based fishing, surfing and horseback riding.
The Farm at Cape Kidnappers – Hawke’s Bay, North Island (www.capekidnappers.com)
Situated on 6,000 rolling acres of pastureland, The Farm at Cape Kidnappers is a working sheep and cattle farm channeling rural New Zealand with a modernly rustic twist. Accommodations include 22 luxurious suites, in addition to a four-bedroom Owner’s Cottage that is ideal for families. Food and wine enthusiasts will bask in savory flavors with farm-to-table cuisine and award-winning local New Zealand wines. The Farm’s cuisine features the finest New Zealand lamb and beef, and the best home-grown produce and seafood prepared by award-winning chefs. Guests can also visit Hawke’s Bay Wine Country, just a short drive from the property. Time at Cape Kidnappers can be spent at the full-service spa or fitness center, or by enjoying an array of activities including a farm tour, pigeon clay shooting, horseback riding, picnics, quad and mountain biking, hiking, guided kiwi walks, gannet safaris, a round of golf on the Par 71 golf course, currently ranked 17th in the world on Golf Digest Magazine’s ‘World’s 100 Greatest Golf Courses’ list. and more.
Matakauri Lodge – Queenstown, South Island (www.matakaurilodge.com)
Located on the banks of Lake Wakatipu just outside Queenstown, Matakauri Lodge is the perfect hideaway retreat offering panoramic views of the alpine lake and surrounding mountains. Accommodations include 12 luxury suites and a new four-bedroom Owner’s Cottage, which just debuted in January 2014. True to the adventurous spirit of Queenstown, local excursions include bungy jumping, hang-gliding, skydiving, heli-skiing, river-rafting, canyoning, wine tours, Lord of the Rings tours, horseback riding and hiking to various exotic locations, as well as time at the lodge’s full-service spa or fitness center. The concierge team at Matakauri Lodge pride themselves on creating unforgettable experiences for guests during their stay.
