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Hidden Treasures

New Zealand Map - "Click for Larger View""Hidden Treasures"

Just a few of the "Hidden Treasures" Pacific Destination Center's Staff have uncovered during their travels throughout New Zealand.

Just a reminder, the seasons "Down Under" are opposite of those in the Northern Hemisphere. 

To request a quote on any of the below-mentioned "Hidden Treasures" or to incorporate some of these "Gems" in a custom itinerary, please contact one of Pacific Destination Center’s Kiwi Specialists at

(800) 227-5317       Updated Page April 2008

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Northland

Carrington LodgeCarrington is a spectacular lodge, golf club, vineyard and 3000-acre Black Angus stud farm located in the warmest area of New Zealand, on the Karikari Peninsula, on the Northern tip of the North Island. Carrington's facilities include an ocean side, 18-hole golf course, a skeet and trap (clay targets) shooting range, tennis courts, a heated swimming pool and spa over looking the Pacific Ocean; 4km of secluded white sand virgin beaches and the hillside vineyards of Karikari Estate Vineyard and Winery.  Also on offer are fine dining restaurant, library, billiard room. The sweeping ocean vistas provide a spectacular back drop to the Estate's activities.

The semi-tropical.weather patterns in Northland are very moderate, much akin to the southern coastal areas of California from Santa Barbara to San Diego. The average midday winter temperature is 18° C (64° F), and the average midday summer temperature is 24° C (75° F).

From US$295.00 per Double room B&B.

By the BayBy The Bay - Luxury Accomodation on the beach.with spectacular beachfront views, beautiful gardens,brilliant sunsets, and an ocean panorama. Luxury beachfront fully equipped self-contained apartments at are ideal for Relaxing Beach Holidays, Romantic Escapes or just the right place for those people who want to get away from it all.  For those seeking outdoor pursuits, Doubtless Bay has a wide range of interesting and exciting activities to offer.

From US$187.00 per Double room.

Waipoua LodgeWaipoua Lodge your sanctuary, more than hotel accommodation - we are an intimate 5-star personally hosted and luxury eco lodge, set in unique New Zealand kauri forest surroundings. Located between Dargaville and the Hokianga, and just 1 ½ hours from the Bay Of Islands, a wilderness lodge - surrounded by native forest, golden sand beaches, lakes for fishing and swimming, in a balanced ecology where organic is just a part of our environmental philosophy.

From US$367.00 per Double room B&B. | Top

Bay of Islands

Omata Estate HomesOmata Estate -Situated within the beautiful Bay of Islands on the sunny east coast of New Zealand’s North Island, Omata Estate is a haven of distinction and indulgent tranquility. Secluded and idyllic, the 25-hectare Omata property offers luxury accommodation – both spacious and well-appointed – surrounded by two forested peninsulas and fronted by a private, golden-sand beach.

A three-hour drive – or 40mins by helicopter – from Auckland, just five minutes from Northland’s hub – Russell, Omata Estate is also serviced by the Kerikeri airport – a 40-minute drive northwest from Opua. Whether you desire tranquil relaxation in a truly enchanting location or more active pursuits – from game fishing, hunting and diving, to whale and dolphin watching, golf and horse riding – Omata Estate effortlessly provides for every want and need.

From US$262.00 per Double room.

Cliff Edge by the SeaCliff Edge by the Sea is situated at Port Opua, the Bay of Islands main Harbour and Marina, only 5 minutes from Paihia, and 10 minutes from Russell. Sitting on top of a promontory above Veronica Channel, the lodge is surrounded by a native bush reserve - and with no immediate neighbours house guests are assured total privacy. With only four guest bedrooms Cliff Edge by the Sea provides a unique accommodation experience in the Bay of Islands, combining the warmth and comfort of a private residence with the sophistication of a boutique hotel. The unparalleled 'in your face' water views from virtually every room are magnificent.

From US$286.00 per Double room B&B and Open Bar. | Top

Auckland

Hotel Du VinHotel Du Vin is located in Mangatawhiri Valley, just 45 minutes drive south of Auckland and 35 minutes from Auckland International Airport in the countryside. A unique New Zealand hotel, with the ambience of an exclusive country inn. Inspired cuisine, fine wines, beautiful park-like setting, excellent leisure activities. Hotel du Vin, Spa du Vin & Firstland Vineyards is a very special destination. Enjoy the luxury of great New Zealand hospitality, a world class spa & wellness retreat, international cuisine and fine Firstland wines in addition to restful accommodation in one of 48 spacious chalets located around this vineyard property.

From US$360.00 per Double room B&B. | Top

Coromandel

Villa ToscanaVilla Toscana - Enjoy truly unique Tuscan style luxury accommodation in the Coromandel Peninsula. Nestled amongst native bush high above Whitianga, the Villa offers the best in unique accommodation with spectacular views of the ranges, valley, the historical Mercury Bay and the islands. Privacy, Seclusion and Views - Your accommodation at Villa Toscana is in "La Loggia", a fully serviced and fully self-contained wing of the Villa and has two bedrooms, a bathroom and an open plan living, dining and kitchen area that opens out onto a stone terrace overlooking Mercury Bay and its many islands.

Located 6km north of Whitianga, just two and a half hours drive from Auckland or, if you are in a hurry to enjoy your Tuscan accommodation experience, just a 30 minute flight either to Whitianga airport or the Villa's private helipad.

From US$718.00 per Double room B&B.

Puka Park ResortPuka Park Resort is majestically situated on a mountainside on the lower eastern side of the Coromandel Peninsula at Pauanui Beach. Nestled amongst 25 acres of New Zealand's most beautiful native bush, and less than 2 hours drive from Auckland , this prestigious hideaway offers luxury and seclusion at its best. Pauanui is famous for its beach - 3 km of golden sands and swirling surf. Visit renowned Cathedral Cove and Hot Water Beach where you can dig your own thermal pool. The Coromandel is an area steeped in history and heritage.

From US$236.00 per Double room B&B. | Top

Cambridge

Farmstay - Amongst the rolling green hills you will find a delightful couple, Ken & Bev's beautiful large modern home with very comfortable guest rooms. The large country garden and trees give a relaxing atmosphere. The farm is on 62 ½ acres with dry stock, mainly beef. You will also have an opportunity to visit the local neighbors many farm animals as well.

From US$248.00 per Double room with Dinner, B&B. | Top

Rotorua

Kawaha Point LodgeKawaha Point Lodge - Award Winning charming retreat is beautifully appointed and set amidst rose gardens and lawns with its magnificent views over Lake Rotorua. Originally built as a luxurious lake- edge villa for several of Auckland’s premier families, today it offers the discerning visitor the opportunity to experience an exclusive and intimate environment.  Ideal base from which to explore the surrounding Thermal Wonderland. Has an elegant dining room and alfresco dining on the terrace the menus especially created by resident Michelin-trained chef, Silvio Sakrzewski.

From US$658.00 per Double room B&B.

Peppers on the Point, Lake Rotorua Peppers on the Point - Lakeside decadence Surrounded by the sparkling waters of Lake Rotorua, Peppers on the Point offers guests the opportunity to experience the rich New Zealand culture and geothermal springs of Rotorua or simply relax and enjoy the tranquillity of its beautiful lodge accommodaton, the stunning location and panoramic views. Once a Maori Pa site, this Rotorua lakeside accommodation is steeped in local history - of ancient battles, love and life - and looks out towards the historic Mokoia Island. The luxury lodge retreat is a converted 1930s mansion filled with beautiful antiques and a choice of 9 spacious, exquisitely furnished accommodation suites, most with views of the lake.

Peppers on the Point offers gourmet New Zealand food and wine, as well as a range of onsite activities from pampering massage, fly fishing from the private beach, water sports, tennis, gym and boating. Only 10 minutes from the heart of Rotorua City, Peppers on the Point is located on Kawaha Point Road which is ideally placed to offer the best of Rotorua from a peaceful and luxurious base.

From US$1052.00 per Double room with pre-dinner drinks and canapes, four course table d'hôte dinner, B&B. | Top

Lake Taupo

Tongariro LodgeFishing Available!Tongariro Lodge - One of the world's great fishing lodges, is located in expansive grounds on the banks of the legendary Tongariro River on the southern shores of Lake Taupo. Just 30 minutes drive from Taupo Airport, one minutes drive from Turangi Airport and one and a half hours drive from Rotorua or 4 hours from Auckland and Wellington. Experience the finest accommodation, gourmet dining, and the very best in trout fishing guides. Zane Grey made it famous, the Queen Mother stalked trout in it, Jimmy Carter found solitude beside it. The incomparable Tongariro River, yours to share and enjoy!

From US$774.00 per Double room with four course table d'hôte dinner, B&B.

Huka LodgeFishing Available!Huka Lodge is located in Taupo, in the central North Island and is considered to be one of the world's top retreats. Surrounded by magnificent natural beauty. The crystal clear waters of Lake Taupo are fed by mountain streams and are home to some of the most sought-after Rainbow trout in the world. The spectacular and mighty cascades of water forming the Huka Falls are a short walk from Huka Lodge, on the banks of the Waikato River. Offering an elegant and welcoming haven where our guests enjoy the highest standards of comfort and hospitality.

Huka Helicopter transfers from Auckland, Wellington and Rotorua. Enjoy the scenic wonders of the central North Island and be delivered to the front lawn of Huka Lodge. Auckland to Huka Lodge - 1 hr 15 min, Wellington to Huka Lodge - 1 hr 35 min, and Rotorua to Huka Lodge 25 minutes. Driving by rental car or limousine generally takes 3-4 hours from Auckland, 4.5 hours from Wellington and 1 hour from Rotorua.

From US$1218.00 per Double room with pre-dinner drinks, superb five-course dinner, B&B and Taupo airport transfers if required.

Tauhara Sunrise LodgeFishing Available!Tauhara Sunrise Lodge - Step inside this 5-star, award-winning lodge, and immediately feel at home. Staying here is like staying with friends and family, yet with all the luxuries of lodge accommodation: Luxuries like 600 thread-count sheets and Egyptian cotton towels; sumptuous bathrobes; exquisite toiletries; hairdryers; complimentary beers, wines, sodas and mineral waters; complimentary in-suite internet access; and complimentary laundry service. Engage in good conversation, and partake in complimentary drinks & hors d'oeuvres with Rob & Becky and other guests. (Or, if you prefer to enjoy your privacy, your wishes will be respected.)

From US$336.00 per Double room with pre-dinner drinks and hors d'oevres, B&B. | Top

Hawkes Bay Wine Region

Hawthorne Country HouseHawthorne Country House is a gracious Edwardian Villa nestled in a peaceful setting. Here you can enjoy your visit to Hawke’s Bay award-winning restaurants and wineries and the Gannet Colony at Cape Kidnappers. Decorated with artifacts and memorabilia from the owners’ extensive world travels. Each of the 18-foot, ensuite guest rooms have an east-facing verandah to catch the morning sun.  Enthusiastic owner-operators ensure you will have a visit to remember, with a quality of service guaranteed to please.

From US$370.00 per Double room B&B and Afternoon Tea.

Greenhill The LodgeGreenhill The Lodge is an opulent and tranquil retreat located in the heart of Hawke's Bay wine country, a region with some of the highest sunshine hours in New Zealand. Within fifteen minutes of either Havelock North or Hastings, a comfortable two hour drive from Taupo and one hour flight from either Auckland or Wellington.The lodge offers luxury accommodation and is located within 30 minutes drive of Cape Kidnappers International Golf Course and over forty wineries.

From US$734.00 per Double room B&B. | Top

Wairarapa Wine Region

Peppers Martinborough HotelPeppers Martinborough Hotel - In the heart of the Martinborough wine village, established in 1882 a historic retreat offering luxury, boutique accommodation near Wellington, one of New Zealand's finest wine destinations. Martinborough is a quirky little village of just 1300 people, encircled by 30 vineyards – most of which are within walking distance from the hotel - and with a leafy square at its heart. This picturesque wine village is situated in the Wairarapa region on the North Island, 75 minutes drive east of Wellington, and three hours south of Hawkes Bay.

The Peppers Martinborough Hotel offers character, comfort and old style personal attention, making it ideal for a romantic weekend away, an indulgent escape or accommodation as part of a holiday or vacation. Modern and contemporary food in the hotel restaurant and a wide range of excellent wines produced within walking distance of the hotel. The infamous Bar with its collection of memorabilia and historic photos where locals and guests gather round one of the wine barrels in front of the cosy fire should not be missed.

From US$205.00 per Double room B&B

Tirohana Country EstateTirohana Country Estate - A five-star luxury Qualmark rated property, Tirohana Country Estate is yours to discover. From the stunning location overlooking the boutique vineyard of Tirohana Estate to the original New Zealand artwork and antique furniture, the property is conveniently located just a one-hour scenic drive or train trip from Wellington.  The ideal base to explore the wonderful Wairarapa region or your own secret escape from the city, the house is self-contained and suited to just a couple, a group of family or friends.

A boutique award-winning producer of Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling and Chardonnay. The six and a half acres are maintained by hand in the traditional way with the emphasis on quality rather than quantity. The Tirohana Estate brand of wines are sold via the onsite Cellar Door as well as to private clients around the world.

From US$187.00 per Double room

The White SwanThe White Swan draws inspiration from the elegant Crown Lynn vases - long valued by New Zealanders for their style and grace - which form the theme for this gorgeous Country Hotel in the heart of historic Greytown which embodies the fine traditions of a name famous the world over for excellence in affordable accommodation and hospitality. Now completely refurbished and modernised, the old building itself has a fascinating heritage and it's name also recalls a notable local shipwreck - an event which almost sank a government. So whether it's history, ambience, elegance or an honest home-style welcome you're after, you'll find it's all right here at The White Swan.

Combining romance, comfort, style and surprise are seven unique rooms in the main body of the building and four delightful Park studio/suites. Each room has been lovingly crafted with an individual personality and an expert eye for detail – yet each is appointed with the very latest features to ensure your stay is marvellous and memorable. All rooms are fully ensuite with queen size beds, television, mini bar and tea/ coffee facilities. Most of the main rooms open onto the upstairs verandah with the Park Studio/Suites overlooking the tranquil and historic Stella Bull Park.

From US$165.00 per Double room. | Top

Wellington

Rawhiti Boutique Bed and BreakfastRawhiti Boutique Bed and Breakfast in the prime suburb of Kelburn is within easy walking distance of the Wellington city centre. See magnificent panoramic views of Wellington harbour and city from all rooms in the historic house including the small private garden at the rear.

This charming Victorian two-storeyed home, built in 1903, has been refurbished to retain original features such as the open fireplace and sash windows. The warm, elegant and tranquil ambience, the historic features and the wonderful outlook combine to offer guests a special Bed and Breakfast stay in Wellington.  Rawhiti offers easy access to city and tourist attractions, plus Victoria University. Take a leisurely stroll through the Botanic Gardens into the city and then return by cable car (a fun four minute ride).

From US$154.00 per Double room B&B. | Top

Marlborough Sounds

Furneaux LodgeFurneaux Lodge Nestled at the head of Endeavour Inlet in the heart of New Zealand's stunning Marlborough Sounds, it is the first stop on the renowned Queen Charlotte Track. It looks out over the calm, clear water of the bay, embraced by 800 hectares of virgin native forest, unchanged since Captain Cook's first visit to the inlet in 1769. Here at the lodge the pace is easy, and the atmosphere comfortable and relaxed. Explore the inlet, kayaking, swimming, mountain biking and walking, or spend the day fishing, diving and dolphin watching.

Picturesque Furneaux Lodge is unique in the Marlborough Sounds with expansive grounds running from the native bush down to the sea. In combination with our award winning restaurant, it is the premier wedding venue in the Sounds. Part of the beauty of this historic destination is the isolation - no roads lead to Furneaux Lodge. Absolute serenity and the absence of distractions are complemented by our equipment and experience to ensure that you next executive conference or winter retreat is a focussed and successful event. Relaxing and peaceful Furneaux Lodge is privately, family owned and operated. Our attention to guests and passion for this lodge will ensure your time in the Marlborough Sounds is enjoyable and memorable.

From US$297.00 per Double room with Dinner, B&B. | Top

Marlborough Wine Region

Straw LodgeStraw Lodge - The boutique vineyard home-stay is housed in a unique straw-bale building nestled amongst the Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir vines of Barrow's Vineyard. Situated on the world renowned wine producing river flats of the Wairau Valley it provides stylish B&B and self-catering accommodation with the option of fully hosted and guided home-stays for individuals or small groups. This is a unique service. It combines accommodation, a working vineyard, home-cooked and fresh home-grown produce, a taste of wine from the vineyard and the option to be professionally guided or advised on individually designed wine, trekking, cycling, walking, fishing, skiing, discovery, craft or gourmet trails of Marlborough.

From US$179.00 per Double room B&B , complimentary tasting of the vineyard's wine and use of the Lodge's facilities.

Old Saint Mary's ConventOld Saint Mary's Convent - In the heart of Marlborough's wine growing area lies a haven for the discerning traveller, where luxury accommodation and an intimate retreat may be found. Old Saint Mary's Convent is situated on an estate of 20 acres and surrounded on all sides by the vineyards and olive groves Marlborough is famous for. Spring Creek, with its abundant bird life and trout, meanders lazily through the property. It is here, beneath Marlborough's azure sky, that one may spend a pleasant afternoon sipping local vintages and sampling the provincial gourmet fare.

From US$375.00 per Double room B&B

The Hotel d’UrvilleThe Hotel d’Urville is the perfect place to relax after a day spent enjoying Marlborough’s many attractions. It’s a small hotel in the heart of the central business district with eleven, well-appointed rooms, an elegant bar, and modern restaurant. The building - the Old Public Trust Building - is a Blenheim landmark. It was built in the art deco style in the 1920s and features a magnificent columned façade, grand staircase and high ceilings. It was opened as a wine bar and brasserie in 1993 and the upstairs converted into a small hotel soon after. New Owners Chris & Helen Birks took over in October 2006. They wish to contiune to set about cementing the hotel’s reputation for style, efficient, friendly service and fine food and wine.

From US$225.00 per Double room B&B

Timara LodgeTimara Lodge - New Zealand owned and operated, is one of the country’s most luxurious and private lodges. Situated in the province of Marlborough, well known around the world for its wines and gourmet foods. Timara Lodge promises a haven of peace, quiet and relaxation.

Timara Lodge is set amongst 600 acres of land, including 25 acres of one of New Zealand's most beautiful English style gardens and a five-acre, man-made lake. Adjoining the gardens is the 350-acre Spy Valley vineyard and winery. Timara Lodge's accommodation facilities ensure your stay is private, comfortable and peaceful. With a warm, unobtrusive welcome, delightful company and culinary delights. Timara Lodge is truly a 'slice of paradise' in Marlborough, New Zealand.

A little further a field, you can cruise the magnificent Marlborough Sounds waterways or walk the renowned Queen Charlotte Track experiencing native bush and bird life. For the more adventurous, you can go whale watching and swim with dolphins at nearby Kaikoura, or try fly-fishing at one of the many local rivers.

From US$1214.00 per Double room with pre-dinner drinks and hors d'oeuvres, four course table d'hôte dinner with wine with Dinner, B&B and any required Blenheim airport transfers. | Top

Nelson

California House InnCalifornia House Inn is the perfect location, the bed and breakfast accommodation is ideally situated in a quiet garden setting by the Maitai River just 5 minutes’ walk from the heart of Nelson. Janice and Ray's personal touches and attention to detail are what will make your bed & breakfast experience here unique. Delight at the extra thought they have shown throughout the house to make your stay supremely comfortable and memorable. Guest rooms are individually named and decorated to complement the history of the house.

From US$175.00 per Double room B&B

Shelbourne VillaShelbourne Villa offers five star boutique accommodation for the discerning traveller, set in a quiet suburban location, yet is within five minutes walk of Nelson’s City Centre and its many Cafes, Restaurants and Galleries. Originally built in 1929 this classic villa has been extensively refurbished and is set in an extensive English style garden. A central base for activities in the Nelson Region’s 3 National Parks and visits to local Artists, Wineries and award winning Restaurants.

From US$165.00 per Double room B&B.
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West Coast

Awatuna HomesteadAwatuna Homestead - Set in a valley that stretches from the foothills of the Southern Alps to the Tasman Sea, the Homestead enjoys the peace and quiet of country accommodation whilst being only 10 minutes from the modern convenience and facilities of nearby Hokitika. Built in 1996 on the same site as their former home, the double storey timber Homestead reflects many features of that beautiful building. The architectural design preserves the classic country colonial lines of dormer windows. Wide verandahs embrace the Homestead, inviting you to pause and sit in comfort, enjoying the peaceful surroundings of the gardens featuring native plants, a traditional paa harakeke (cultural flax garden), mature exotic trees and shrubs.

The peaceful, private river frontage that borders the property, is home to native birds and fish. Close by the Homestead is the natural splendour and excitement of a wild West Coast beach with stunning views of the mountains and the sea. Watch the unbelievable beauty of the sun setting into the ocean at day's end.

From US$185.00 per Double room B&B.

Lake Brunner LodgeFishing Available!Lake Brunner Lodge - The most gracious and renowned luxury lodge on the West Coast. Luxury accommodation surrounded by outstanding protected wilderness and the lodge's own private 5,500 hectare station. Lakefront, fringed by some of the oldest podocarp rainforest in the world, the lodge retreat espouses the essence of early New Zealand architecture. A haven of refined luxury from which to explore and enjoy the West Coast's magnificent natural environment.

A world-class angler's heaven, nearby lakes and rivers offer magical South Island brown trout fishing. Be enchanted on exclusive guided adventures including walks, kayaking and mountain biking. Local West Coast highlights include the Punakaiki Pancake Rocks, wild coast and seabirds, the semi-tropical nikau palms and limestone of Paparoa National Park or the fascinating alpine flora and fauna of Arthur's Pass National Park. Relish this remote and beautiful location. Under one hours drive from Arthur's Pass, Greymouth and Hokitika. Stay at Lake Brunner Lodge and explore.

From US$500.00 per Double room with pre-dinner drinks and hors d'oeuvres, dinner, B&B. | Top

Arthurs' Pass

Arthurs' Pass Wilderness LodgeArthurs' Pass Wilderness Lodge - A warm welcome in the heart of the SouthernAlps. Nestled in mountain beech forest, midway between Greymouth and Christchurch. Wilderness Lodge Arthur's Pass offers comfort and warm hospitality in a spectacular mountain setting. The lodge has 24 Lodge rooms, an intimate restaurant, lounge, library and theatre for evening nature talks. Discover wild nature in the New Zealand mountains and experience life on our 3,000 hectare nature reserve / high country merino sheep station.

Walk from your room into a natural paradise of beech forest, tussock clearings, moss-lined streams and lakes on a network of nature walks. The highlight of the Lodge is a daily programme of nature discovery activities. Their naturalist guides will help you to explore nature and learn about high country life. All Lodge rooms have private bathrooms and sun and superb alpine views. You can enjoy privacy and seclusion or you can join with other guests and their guides to enjoy the nature tours and farm activities. Around the log fire you will make new friends and learn about New Zealand and its people as you plan your next day's adventures. You will also learn more about this special place the first Maori visitors called "Te Ko Awa a Aniwaniwa - Valley of the Mother of the Rainbows."

From US$435.00 per Double room with Dinner, B&B. | Top

Christchurch

The GeorgeThe George brings luxury boutique hotel hospitality to the heart of Christchurch, an elegant English style garden city. The hotel is renowned for its chic, luxurious style, passionate attention to detail and warm and friendly personalised service. Christchurch lies on the east coast of South Island New Zealand, an area renowned for its friendliness and natural beauty.   Located in the heart of Christchurch, The George is within easy walking distance of Christchurch's historic Arts Centre, Museum and Botanical Gardens.

The Casino, theatre and restaurant areas are close by although The George's own restaurants Pescatore and 50 on Park are two of Christchurch's finest dining rooms. The Avon River and Hagley Park provide peaceful getaways whilst the more adventurous can explore the nearby Southern Alps and Canterbury Plains. To the east of Christchurch is Banks Peninsula with numerous bays, sandy beaches and rocky coastlines. The French harbour-side village of Akaroa is within easy reach. Kaikoura whale watching centre is about two hours drive away whilst Canterbury's premier ski resort, Mount Hutt is a similar distance in the south-west.

From US$258.00 per Double room. | Top

Lake Tekapo

Homestay - Peter and Jennifer, retired sheep farmers, have a large beautiful, comfortable modern home overlooking Lake Tekapo and the majestic mountains. Jennifer is a marriage celebrant and Justice of the Peace, and her and Peter are very experienced hosts who enjoy meeting people.

From US$175.00 per Double room B&B. | Top

Lake Moeraki

Lake MoerakiLake Moeraki - A warm welcome to Te Wahi Pounamu where the Tasman Sea and its Penguins meet the ancient rainforest. Spectacular beaches that are home to fur seals and crested penguins, untouched lowland rainforests spread between pristine lakes and rivers which drain the snow capped Southern Alps. Few places on earth can match the unique natural setting of the Wilderness Lodge Lake Moeraki in the heart of the 2.7 million hectares South West New Zealand World Heritage Area, Te Wahi Pounamu ( Maori translation: the place of greenstone jade).

Husband and wife owners, teacher Anne Saunders and biologist Dr. Gerry McSweeney arrived at Lake Moeraki (Maori translation: "to sleep by day") in 1989 from Wellington where Gerry was director of New Zealand's largest environmental organisation. They set up the lodge to help protect the rainforests and share this extraordinary natural setting with visitors.

The Lodge is landscaped in a lakeside clearing surrounded by 1000 year old rainforest trees. It offers a high level of comfort in attractive Lodge rooms (all rooms have private bathrooms) with lounges and restaurant that overlook the lovely Moeraki rapids. A relaxed drink and meal in the tranquil Moeraki Lounge as you watch the river roll by, native birds and trout jumping is a wonderful tonic in a hectic world. Moeraki rapids Radiating from the Lodge is a network of rainforest and Tasman seacoast walks.

There is a fleet of canoes for you to explore Lake Moeraki and the Moeraki river. A team of guides from the Lodge will introduce you to crested penguins, fur seals, giant tame eels and New Zealand's unique birdlife and ancient forests. West Coasters Dorothy Piper and Malcolm Edwards are the managers at Lake Moeraki and have a team of enthusiastic young New Zealanders keen to share their Wilderness with you.

From US$435.00 per Double room with Dinner, B&B. | Top

Dunedin

Larnach CastleLarnach Castle - Enjoy a beautiful, quiet rural setting only 20 minutes drive from Dunedin City... New recreation of a colonial farm building set in 35 acres of gardens and grounds of award winning Larnach Castle. There are twelve theme bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms, each individually decorated. Each room has a splendid view of the ocean 1 000 feet below. Lodge Guests receive complimentary admission to Larnach Castle during opening hours.

From US$175.00 per Double room B&B. | Top

Central Otago

Olivers'Olivers is only a one hour drive from both Queenstown and Wanaka, and is conveniently off the main highway to / from Dunedin. Set amongst schist stone buildings dating from the 1860s, Oliver’s Boutique Lodge is steeped in history and is undoubtedly a unique experience in warm local hospitality, dining and accommodation. Its fully licensed restaurant has been delighting and intriguing travellers to Central Otago for over 25 years now, while its accommodation has a decade of evocative memories behind it. 

Within easy reach of Olivers is the film location of the village of Rohan of Peter Jackson's movie Lord of the Rings.  Spread amongst the several historic stone buildings are 11 ensuite rooms. You can choose from accommodation in an historic stable stall, the old homestead, or perhaps you’d rather the privacy and especially romantic ambience of “The Smokehouse” with its antique canopied double bed, spacious, exotically tiled and decorated bathing room with sunken bath, and open fire.  Enjoy dinner in the highly regarded restaurant and breakfast the next morning in the atmospheric farmhouse kitchen.

Come and immerse yourself in the elegant sophistication and old world charm that is Oliver’s Restaurant and Lodge in Clyde, Central Otago, South Island, New Zealand.

From US$130.00 per Double room B&B. | Top

Queenstown

Remarkables LodgeRemarkables Lodge - Imagine a discreet and exclusive retreat, a sanctuary far removed from the bustle of this busy world. You've discovered one of New Zealand's exclusive lodges; Queenstown luxury accommodation in a spectacular setting has all the facilities of a small luxury hotel but with the intimacy and hospitable ambience of a country estate, epitomising the New Zealand luxury lodge experience.

From US$680.00 per Double room with Dinner, B&B.

Eichardt's Private HotelEichardt's Private Hotel - Opulent suites invite guests to soak up a sense of quiet before exploring one of the world's truly remarkable locations. The hotel provides accommodation in five luxurious suites with stunning lake and mountain views. The historic building is in the premium lakefront position at the heart of Queenstown's café and restaurant precinct, with some of the finest international shopping labels an easy stroll away. Inhale the invigorating alpine air - then step out into the expectant evening and let the lights of Queenstown and canopy of stars guide you to one of the world class restaurants nearby. When winter's blanket descends over the town, the allure of open log fires, coffee aromas and cheery conversation beckon you in from the cold.

From US$1025.00 per Double room B&B with evening cocktails. | Top

To request a quote on any of the above-mentioned "Hidden Treasures" or to incorporate some of these "Gems" in a custom itinerary, please contact one of Pacific Destination Center’s Kiwi Specialists at

(800) 227-5317.

Updated Page April 2008
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Phone: (714) 960-4011 | (800) 227-5317
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