We were so looked after by the team it felt super special. We had a room to ourselves and were provided with expert knowledge and skill by Adrian. We wouldn’t hesitate in recommending this to others. Superb food with perfect wine matches. Thanks so much for making our weekend. Lucinda and Aaron
Most facets of our stay met or exceeded our expectations. The Lodge itself has an interesting range of rooms for formal dining, casual breakfast and lunch, drinks and relaxing. There is a sweeping view out to Palliser Bay across the landscaped grounds. Our Cottage Suite was spacious, comfortable and well-appointed. The multi-course evening meals were particularly good, and the wine list very extensive, although we were very pleased with the estate's own "Whare" Pinot Noir wine. We were not really attracted by Wharekauhau's various guided experiences, but we were keen to opt for the "trails marked around the property that vary in length, terrain and ability" as promoted on the website for "guests to bring out their inner explorer, and find their own magic spots around the estate". So, we followed the instruction to pick up a map from the front desk and ask about the trails. On our first day we set off via the entrance road on the relatively shorter coast trail. The coastal view was great combined with picturesque traditional baches and steep intersecting stream gorges. We didn't expect that part of the track back to the Lodge would involve a steep bank ascended by rope attached to warratah stakes. At the top of the track a supposedly informative sign pointed directly at the Lodge building, but that direction had no obvious track and was blocked by fences. We tried in one direction but the muddy field became problematic. In the opposite direction, it was a bit easier, but we still had to climb a locked gate and go through the grounds of a staff building to return to the Lodge. On the second day we set out on the Longacre loop trail - this looked easy enough as we'd already seen the farm roadways at either end and the provided map seemed clear enough. After perhaps 30 minutes the farm road came to an end, but a sign pointed the way to proceed. Maybe we should have been a bit more concerned that this required going through a gate with one-third over a steep drop-off and knee-high grass. We continued through the farm fields with no obvious indication of the trail apart from a number of dilapidated signs some of which had fallen to the ground. We then encountered a creek that was far too wide to jump or wade, but crossed by a fence that could be straddled - but the fence was also electrified, which did not end well. This was potentially a great trail with dramatic views of the gorge, and interesting highlights along the way such as the rimu forest and natural springs. But, the level of maintenance by Wharekauhau is non-existent and the map and advice provided was very misleading. At the end of our stay we used the written guest feedback form to detail our issues with the two trails we attempted and the misleading map and poor advice provided to guests. Clearly, the trails aren't going to be easily and quickly fixed, but it would have been nice to have had some subsequent acknowledgement. I see that Wharekauhau has removed the main Hiking experience webpage from their site, although there is still a short item on the Lodge experiences page. Overall, the lack of a personal response from Wharekauhau regarding our feedback about the trails seems to reinforce our impression that the Lodge's primary focus is on big-spending clients that fly in by helicopter and require premium price customised activities. Guests that opt for a regular package without purchasing various add-on experiences don't seem warrant any real attention.…
We had a very relaxing weekend at the lodge. Amenities were great and the staff were relaxed but attentive. Massage was just what the doctor ordered to sooth away lockdown stresses. Covid protocols made mingling a bit tough but the staff managed this with aplomb. Weather was fantastic, hardly a breath of wind!
Having been ill with mobility problems, I wasn't sure if I could go for the weekend treat but my husband asked if I could sit in a car - yes: , raise a fork and glass to my lips - certainly: would I rather be miserable at home or in luxury - no question there so off we went! From the second we arrived it was seriously fabulous - everything and more. I was expertly transported around in a golf cart - nothing too much trouble - they even noticed how expertly I could get after a little practice!! The cottage was divine - so calming and restful. One hears on HGTV house programs that it is a million dollar view and they could sit and look at it all day - exactly how we felt but with cause - we sat in the sun on our terrace/porch looking over the farmland to the ocean - with a glass in the hand and the simplicity of the experience was pure joy. The dinner was totally yum - still dreaming of it!! My husband went bike riding and then swimming - all the activities look fantastic and I will go back when more mobile to enjoy the farm tour which other guests raved about. The storm came in on Saturday night and we were over the moon - we were safe and snug in our cottage with the fire going - next morning we snuggled up in front of it to eat our shortbread biscuits (just come for those alone!) and the best cup of tea I have ever drunk - it felt perfect and I felt at home - never wishing to leave! Of course, being a working farm there can be the occasion fly but they can be banished - I have decided that we will be back asap!! I have not managed to find one criticism except that we should have started coming here years ago!!…
From the moment we booked this was a thoroughly enjoyable expereince. As requested Wharekauhau sent a postcode invitation to my mum advising her of the 80th birthday lunch, and she was able to look forward to it for 3 months. On the day it did not disappoint, from the moment we arrived, champagne outside on a perfect October day, to the most amazing food and professional service, we loved every second. We stayed 4 hours! I cant wait to think up another reason to go soon. (Unfortunately we did stay at Wharekauhau.)
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