As testimony to its qualities, Wharekauhau has won a clutch of awards in New Zealand and internationally, including being voted one of the best hotels in the world in the highly coveted Condé Nast Traveler Gold List 2006, being awarded the ultimate accolade, inclusion in ‘The 100 Best Places To Stay in 2006’ Robb Report Luxury Resorts, being named a Grand Award Winner by Andrew Harper’s Hideaway Report in 1998 and 2004, winning Wine Spectator’s Best Award of Excellence in 2003, 2004 & 2005, and receiving a World Travel Award for New Zealand’s Best Spa Resort in 2003.  Additional awards received include: Condé Nast Traveller Gold List in both 2006 and 2007, Andrew Harper (USA) Grand Award 2004 and Andrew Harper (USA) Grand Award 2004.

Hotel Features and Facilities

• Located 2 hour drive or 12 minute helicopter flight from Wellington
• 12 cottages and 2 Estate Houses each with 3 bedrooms
• Interconnecting rooms available
• Pre-dinner drinks and canapés, a four course gourmet dinner, and breakfast are included in the per person rate.
• Spa Therapists on site for massages, facials, hot stone massage, salt glows, and mud wraps.
• 25 meter heated indoor swimming pool
• Fully equipped gymnasium
• Tennis court
• Walking Trails
• Mountain Bikes
• Petanque and croquet available in courtyard
• A number of other activities are available at an additional charge: farm tours, ATV tours, Wine tours to Martinborough, Horse Back Riding, Clay Target shooting, Archery, and Helicopter Tours

Accommodation

The luxury accommodation is provided in the form of 12 sumptuously furnished, charming cottages with stunning ocean views dotted around the estate. The positioning of the cottages, which are all within easy walking distance of the main lodge, the heart of Wharekauhau, ensures complete privacy and spectacular views.

Natural materials are used throughout the guest suites, including clay tiles, pebble mosaics, plastered walls, rich New Zealand wool carpeting, cotton bed linen and hemp curtains. 

Each suite has a super king sized four poster bed, television, open fireplace, under floor heating, deep sofas, a fully stocked bar, and dressing room with full length mirror.

Chateau Wellington

Chateau Wellington is a 4,600 square foot fully furnished three-bedroom house offering the ultimate in privacy and luxury with spectacular views of Palliser Bay. All three bedrooms have a queen-sized bed, ensuite bathroom with separate shower and claw foot bath, gas fireplace and air-conditioning. The house has a large open plan living area with gas fireplace, full kitchen and dining area. Fully air-conditioned, the house is located just 1 km from Wharekauhau Lodge. A 4WD vehicle is also available.

House guests have full access to the Lodge, recreation facilities and exclusive tours and activities. Four course, gourmet dinner, pre-dinner drinks and full breakfast at the lodge are included. Complimentary bar, tea and coffee, homemade cookies, fresh fruit and twice daily servicing provided

Wharepapa Cottage
 

Wharepapa Cottage is a three-bedroom cottage with unparalleled views of Palliser Bay. Two double and one twin bedroom, two bathrooms with separate bath and shower, open plan living area with gas fireplace, underfloor heating, laundry, full kitchen and dining area. Wharepapa Cottage is located just 4 kilometers from Wharekauhau Lodge. Private transportation is recommended.

Cottage guests have full access to the Lodge, recreation facilities and exclusive tours and activities. Complimentary bar, tea and coffee, home made cookies and basic breakfast items (fruit, cereal, fruit juice, milk, bread, butter, spreads etc.) provided.

Dining

In-House Dining is available – however no restaurant as such on site. Dining at Wharekauhau resembles a private dinner party, with guests seated at grand tables. The blend of nationalities, ages and interests ensures convivial dining. However, honeymooning couples and other guests who prefer a more intimate setting for their meals are welcome to request a private dining room.

Wharekauhau's menu changes to reflect the seasons and features New Zealand classics such as rack of lamb, venison, pigeon breast, crab broth and crayfish. Local flavors are a highlight and there is an award winning selection of local wines, including Palliser Estate, Ata Rangi, Martinborough Vineyard and Murdoch James. Kapiti cheese and Olivo extra virgin olive oil are just a few examples of local produce used. We also offer organic produce, including a range of refreshing organic beers.

Things to do

Wharekauhau Farm Tour
($160 per person - minimum of 2 people required/complimentary for a booking of 3 nights or more).

No visit to Wharekauhau is complete without a tour of the surrounding farm. Bordered by the Rimutaka Ranges and Pacific Ocean, this classic New Zealand Romney sheep station features all the activities that have created New Zealand’s legendary farming heritage, including sheep shearing demonstrations, sheep dogs in action and daily farm events. This working sheep station tour is an absolute must for all Wharekauhau Visitors. Explore

Wharekauhau Coastline Tour
($160 per person - minimum of 2 people required)

Take a spectacular and breathtaking drive along the coastline, following the original stock route established in 1844 when sheep and cattle were first introduced to the region.  Watch thunderous surf pound into the rocky coastline of Palliser Bay and feel the exhilaration of this wild coastal environment.  In 1855 a major earthquake raised this incredible coastline by eight feet. Today, this dramatic landscape of mountainous boulders, sheer cliffs and windswept flora is a photographer’s dream.

Cape Palliser Seal Colony and Lighthouse
($250 per person - minimum of 2 people required, includes lunch at Lake Ferry)

Travel along the rugged coastline to the picturesque, historic fishing village of Ngawi.  The golf course there is actually mowed by sheep!  Then travel on to one of New Zealand’s largest Brown Fur Seal colonies where seals bask in this unspoiled natural environment.  While there climb to the top of the lighthouse for magnificent views out over Palliser Bay.

Wine Tour
($275 per person, Minimum of 2 people required, includes lunch and tasting)

Located in close proximity to Wharekauhau, 29 boutique wineries are situated around the small rural village of Martinborough. Discover the pleasures of the local wineries, tasting some of the world’s best Pinot Noir. - International wine experts rate Martinborough as one of the finest wine growing regions in New Zealand and its Pinot Noir equal to anything that Burgundy has on offer. Your personal guide will chauffer you around a choice of the best vineyards and serious enthusiasts will be given the opportunity to meet with wine makers and have a behind the scenes tour of a vineyard. Included with this tour will be lunch at one of the vineyard cafes or at one of the excellent cafes in the village, where you will also be given the opportunity to visit the boutique shops should you so wish.

New Zealand Design Tour
($275 per person, minimum of 2 people required, includes lunch)

Internationally, shopping has become an increasingly homogenous experience. What you see in Asia you see in Europe or even in your hometown. On this tour you will be exposed to things that are truly unique to these shores, and through the medium of Art, Clothing and Jewellery, get an insight into the New Zealand culture. The tour will take you through Martinborough & historic Greytown to visit a number of galleries and shops plus lunch at a fabulous restaurant. Then, just when you think you can do no more, we end on a sweet note with Schoc Chocolate - specialists in hand crafted chocolates with flavors from the norm to rose petal or chilli flavored.

Heli-Tours

A number of helicopter tour options can be arranged. See below for details.

Golf

Fly from Wharekauhau and head northwest over the Rimutaka ranges to the west coast of the lower North Island to the championship Paraparaumu Golf Course on the Kapiti Coast.  Paraparaumu Beach Links is rated as one of the best courses in the country and ranks 79^th in the world. Links golf is unlike that played on inland courses. The well drained undulating fairways, fierce rough, fast greens and intimidating bunkers combine with the naturally windy coastal weather to create a truly challenging golfing experience. Quality graphite-shafted clubs, green fees, golf cart and shoes are all provided.  Allow 5 hours for 18 holes.

Marlborough Wine Tour

Across Cook Strait at the top of the South Island, is the internationally renowned Marlborough wine district and the prospect of wine tasting and lunch at Highfield Estate. Only 10 minutes from the township of Blenheim, you will find the award winning buildings, which comprise Highfield Estate. Designed by Sir Michael Fowler, the building is in the style of a Tuscan castle and is sited at the crest of a hill offering stunning 360 degree view from the Highfield Tower. Select something delicious from Highfield’s exciting menu, and enjoy wine tasting followed by a winery tour. Highfield Estate offers an unsurpassed winery experience. Allow 3.5 hours. Price includes lunch, but not drinks.

Kaikoura Whale Watch

Fly across Cook Strait and follow the east coast of the South Island to Kaikoura. Off the coast of the village is a marine environment so rich in nutrients that it attracts some of the most magnificent sea mammals on the planet.  Among them is the giant Sperm Whale, which can grow up to 20 meters in length. Leaving the helicopter on the shore, explore the world of whales close while onboard a specially designed “whale watch’ vessel. Photographic opportunities abound not just for Sperm Whales, but also for migratory Humpback Whales (June & July), Orca (summer months), New Zealand's own tiny Hectors dolphin, the high spirited displays of the Dusky dolphins, New Zealand Fur seals and the Royal Albatross.  Allow 5.5 hours

Prices for Heli-Tours are available on request.
Please note: Heli-Tours require advance bookings and are weather dependent.

Jet Boating

Add a little excitement to your stay.  Travel up Lake Onoke to the Ruamahunga River by jet boat for close-up views of superb scenery. Experience fast turns and exhilarating fun on the way.  Stop off at the Lake Ferry Hotel for lunch or refreshments and admire the amazing view back to Wharekauhau Lodge. Price available on request. Bookings in advance ESSENTIAL. Minimum of 4 passengers required.

Horse Riding, ATV Bikes

With 5000 acres of private land including ancient forests, peaceful lakes, rivers, rolling pastureland and a wild and breathtaking coast, there is little shortage of choice when it comes to choosing a route for walking, mountain biking, horse riding or ATV quad bike adventures.

Horse Riding
(Bookings one day prior appreciated, weather dependent)

      Trekking: Take a one or two-hour trek over what has been described as “one of the most spectacular farms on earth”. Enjoy a picnic, carefully prepared by the Lodge kitchen, and stop along the way to eat lunch by a babbling brook, or overlooking the rugged and dramatic coastline of Palliser Bay.  12 years and over.  $75 per person per hour

Lessons: One or two hour lessons on either an English or Western saddle are also available at Wharekauhau. Your own personal trainer is on hand to show you the ropes and teach you about your horse.  From beginners to intermediate level. 6 years and over.  $75 per person per hour

ATV Quad Bikes

Ideal for the adventurous, these bikes are loads of fun. A great way to travel along the black sand beaches, over scenic riverbanks and along open fields.  After 20 minutes of tuition, enjoy wonderful views and local scenery in the company of an experienced guide.  Protective clothing is provided.  Minimum of two people, 16 years and over. 1/2 Day- $175 per person includes a drink stop. Full Day- $250 per person

Surfcasting

The bountiful coastline along Palliser Bay offers a variety of interesting and edible fish. Discover the best spots to fish from with professional instruction available if required. Independent Fishing with use of fishing gear $100. Guide $65 per 1/2 hour. Heli-fishing pricing available on request.

Clay Target Shooting

Clay shooting will test the reflexes like no other sport and what better place to enjoy a shoot than Wharekauhau’s own clay-target field, one of the best in the region. Small calibre guns and rifles are available - .22, .22 magnum, .410 shotgun, 20 gauge and 12 gauge shotguns. 30 calibre rifle available by arrangement. Firearms, ammo, targets, and instruction are provided. Maximum of 4 people per guide. $65 for twenty-five clays.  $2 for every clay following

If using,.22 Magnum $25 per  twenty five rounds

Archery

Since the Lord of the Rings epic trilogy was filmed in New Zealand, archery has enjoyed a resurgence in popularity. Expert archer and Lord of the Rings trainer Jan Kozler set up Wharekauhau’s range and trained the instructors. Lots of fun for all levels of skill. Full instruction and a range of archery equipment is available at Wharekauhau – Recurve bows, left and right handed and Compound bows for the more advanced archer. Stationary and flying targets provided. $45 per person up to 4 people.

Spa Treatments

Full Body Massage
(deep tissue or gentle relaxation)

Choose between a really deep tissue massage or a more soothing touch version. Ideal after horseback riding or quad biking, perfect for jet fatigue, stiff joints and aching muscles. The massage will be done with a blend of aromatherapy oils, leaving body and mind relaxed and revived, ready to enjoy the evening ahead and the next day’s activities. 1 hr $130, 1.5hr $175

Body Polish
(full body treatment)

Using a combination of Jojoba granules and essential oils, the body is gently massaged all over to remove dead cells, impurities and stimulate circulation. This treatment is recommended for those with more sensitive skin who still want the benefits of an all over exfoliation treatment. 45 mins $130

Aromatherapy Body Salt Glow Massage
(full body treatment)

A deep cleansing and exfoliating treatment where a blend of aromatic sea salts, mineral salts and essential oils are massaged into the body to remove impurities, dead cells and stimulate circulation. The skin will be smooth and radiant, muscles loose and relaxed. Men love this treatment!  45 mins $130

Detox-Thalasso Wrap
(full body seaweed wrap)

Unwind the mind and detoxify the body with this rich wrap containing micronized minerals, vitamins and enzymes naturally abundant in seaweed.  1 hr $130

Moor Mud Wrap
(full body aromatic mud wrap)

While easing away aches and pains or recovering from a long journey, this unique black magma infused mud is rich in natural vitamins, minerals and enzymes that rejuvenate the skin and bring the mind and body back to life.  1hr $130

Relaxing Facial (cleansing facial)

Relax with a massage of the back, neck and shoulders following with a deep, cleansing facial.  1 hr $130

Favorite Treatment Combinations

Salt Glow and Relaxing Facial

A wonderful top to toe treatment combining the benefits of an all over exfoliation and detox followed by total rehydration for the body and face. Combine this with the healing, soothing effects of massage. Perfect for those with jet lag or as a mid-holiday revitalizer.  1.5 hrs $250 

Full Body Massage and Facial

The ultimate for anyone wanting an all over recharge. All the benefits of a deep tissue massage –or a lighter touch if required– with the blissful treat of a facial to finish with.  2 hrs $250

Aching Body Buster

First experience a full body massage using aromatherapy oils specifically selected to relieve aching muscles and joints before being cocooned in a warming moor mud wrap rich in vitamins, minerals and enzymes. All beneficial to those suffering body aches. A wonderfully detoxifying and energizing experience.  1.5 hrs $250

All Spa treatment prices are NZ$, including GST, subject to change.