Tucked away along a quiet road, Delamore Lodge sits above a lovely bay that is one of Waiheke Island’s many jewels. The island, just a 35-minute ferry ride from the Auckland central business district, is renowned for its vineyards, restaurants, uncrowded beaches and arty vibe — it offers a taste the laid-back New Zealand way of life.
The lodge cascades down a hillside in the shape of a Maori fish hook, looking out over sheltered Owhanake Bay — which gets busy with boats during the weekend — toward the scattered islands in the Hauraki Gulf.
With only four suites, a two-bedroom villa and one two-bedroom apartment, the maximum of 16 guests are able to spread out around the many lounges and nooks, so that it never feels crowded. Wander the hotel’s 12 acres of gardens dotted with local art, mingle with fellow guests at evening drinks and canapés or simply soak up the bay view from the heated infinity pool.
- The gorgeous infinity pool is Instagram gold, sitting high above the turquoise water of the bay, and framed by palms and ferns.
- The staff members
at the boutique hotel are friendly and enthusiastic, and keen for you to enjoy
the best of both the lodge and Waiheke itself.
- A cozy grotto hosts a Jacuzzi and sauna, which are especially appealing in cooler weather. When you need more pampering, visit the adjacent spa for an Ultra Polynesian Massage that incorporates coconut and vanilla.
For the utmost privacy, opt for the Owner’s Villa. Nestled in the Mediterranean-style gardens away from the main building, the villa offers two master suites, two decks, a full kitchen, ferry transfers, breakfast and a complimentary mini-bar.
- Find serenity in the trim gardens with trickling fountains, shady spaces and a variety of indigenous plants. They make a lovely frame for Delamore’s greatest treasure: its incomparable views.
- From Auckland Airport, you are just a 12-minute scenic flight away from the lodge helipad. If you opt to take the trip by road and ferry, allow at least an hour and a half.
- Children are welcome to stay in the separate apartment, not the suites. Plus, the Waiheke Island hotel requests that kids do not attend evening drinks.
- The cave-like feel of the suites, with their curves and plaster, is comforting and soothing, and contrasts with the bright colors of the garden right outside. This is especially evident in the bathroom, where a wide window alongside the deep bath and separate monsoon shower allows for a back-to-nature impression.
- The large, comfortable beds are adorned with fine linens and perched above the the sitting area, which looks out over a private deck to the sea.
- A jar of freshly baked cookies left in your room is a homey touch.
- The two-bedroom apartment, on a different level and with a separate entry, is spacious. A dining table on the deck is a fabulous place to enjoy an evening meal at sunset with stunning views over the gulf.
- Waiheke Island has many walking tracks and one (part of the whole-island circuit called Te Ara Hura) passes close by the luxury hotel, giving hikers a series of lovely vistas of the Hauraki Gulf, its islands and beaches.
- Visit the nearby little town of Oneroa to peruse art galleries spotlighting the island’s many resident artists and Whittaker’s Musical Museum’s large collection of instruments, including a concert grand piano once owned by Paderewski that you are allowed to play.
- Explore the island’s many deservedly famous wineries. Waiheke’s 30-some vineyards produce everything from Bordeaux-inspired reds to chardonnays.
Bar
Meeting rooms
Outdoor pool
Restaurants
Spa
