Description
Nestled in native bush, overlooking Lake Wakatipu on the outskirts of vibrant Queenstown, Matakauri Lodge is one of the most private and exclusive addresses in New Zealand. The lodge's communal areas are cosy and welcoming and guests can enjoy the clean crisp interiors bathed in light while reading a book in the library or curled up with a glass of wine in front of the living room's fireplace. This is contemporary casual style with a touch of glamour and the emphasis on natural materials and warm colours to reflect the lodge's majestic surrounds.
Each of Mataukari's spacious suites has its own private sitting room and garden terrace, all of which look out to the mountainous terrain beyond the stunning lake views. Suites are spacious and airy and have been cleverly designed to be simplistic, hence not detracting from the beauty outside, yet all of life's creature comforts have been attended to from the latest audio visual technology to the high quality beds, towels and linen.
Each evening guests gather in the lounge for pre dinner drinks and canapés and here stories are shared and compared of the day's adventures. The lodge prides itself on showcasing the finest wines and produce in a luxurious setting and whether it is a picnic lunch, gourmet dinner or a private meal in one of the lodge's many special venues, the quality of food and service is second to none.
Explore this beautiful region by helicopter, bungy from one of the highest jumps in the world, speed down the rivers by jet boat or simply enjoy the relaxing environment of Matakauri Lodge at the gorgeous infinity pool or indulgent spa, with its outstanding views of the lake across the beautiful gardens.
Accommodation
Matakauri has eleven luxury suites in total, with eight outlying suites and one lodge room and two lodge suites located in the main building. Every spacious suite has its own private deck and separate sitting area and fireplace. All rooms feature LCD TVs. DVD/CD players , ipod connectivity and wireless internet access. Large picture windows, natural materials, warm colours and crisp, clean modern design dominate throughout.
Childcare
Matakauri Lodge welcomes families travelling with children and cots can be arranged for babies. Private dining can be arranged for families with children eating after 7pm but babysitting is also available should you wish to have dinner at separate times. The Lodge Room interconnects with a Deluxe Suite which works perfectly for families.
Facilities
The main lodge consists of spacious lounge, library, dining and living areas, all with views of Lake Wakatipu. The lodge also offers a range of indoor and outdoor dining options for guests including superb spots for private dining. Facilities include a luxury spa with indulgent treatments such as Snowflake Massage and Alpine Temptation, outdoor heated infinity swimming pool, sauna, jacuzzi and fully equipped gym with yoga, pilates and personal training available by appointment.
Activities
The lodge has a spa, pool , gym and a number of walking trails on site but can also arrange fishing, white water rafting, heli tours, skiing, heli-skiing, jet boating, hiking, glacier tours and many more adventures for the active guest. Day trips can be accompanied by one of the chef's delicious picnics.
When to travel
The climate in New Zealand is incredibly pleasant, with warm and balmy summers and cold crisp winter months with wonderful clear, blue skies. The warmer high-season months of November to April are perfect for outdoor exploration. The colder months of June to August are the best time to ski.
Both North and South Islands are drier on the east coast, rather than on the west, where mountain ranges act as a trap for the moisture-rich winds from the Tasman Sea. It is also worth remembering that it is usually a few degrees cooler on the South Island than the North Island and as New Zealand has a maritime climate, the weather can change rapidly.
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Location and directions
Queenstown, South Island, New Zealand
Matakauri Lodge is located on Glenorchy Road, overlooking Lake Wakatipu on the outskirts of Queenstown, South Island. Matakauri Lodge is located just 7-minutes from the heart of Queenstown and all its attractions, yet its private setting renders it seemingly a world away, positioned as it is on the edge of Lake Wakatipu with gob-smacking views of the Remarkables.
How to get there
From Christchurch International Airport guests take a 45-minute flight to Queenstown. Matakauri Lodge is situated a convenient 20-minute drive from Queenstown Airport. Alternatively, guests can take the 5-6 hour drive from Christchurch International Airport.
