Description
Greenhill Lodge is set in 30 acres in the heart of Hawkes Bay wine country - a region with some of the highest sunshine hours in New Zealand. Sitting on top of a hill, overlooking classic New Zealand farmland and close to the Hawkes Bay vineyards, Greenhill is extravagantly detailed both inside and out. With over 40 world-famous vineyards, within a 30 minute drive from the property, this historic mansion has also hosted English royalty. The main lodge houses five en-suite guest rooms, most of which open to the terrace and sensational views over a magnificent, restored pergola Guest rooms spill out onto a deep veranda and onto the park-like gardens beyond.
The homestead offers guests two more interesting features, a viewing turret and billiard room. The Billiard Room with its elegant wood panelling is furnished in grand style complete with a full size table.
The old stables of the homestead have been converted into a gymnasium. This room affords a view of the hills which stretches for miles and takes in a Hawke's Bay landmark, distinctive Te Mata Peak. Enjoy the outdoor recreational area which incorporates an inviting swimming pool, log fireplace and seating areas just perfecting for relaxing.
Whilst staying at Greenhill Lodge, it is well worth exploring the local vineyards and also taking a trip to visit the Art Deco town of Napier. The town was rebuilt in the early 1930's following a massive earthquake in the styles of the 1930's. Napier's Art Deco is unique, reflecting the indigenous Maori culture in its motifs, and featuring the influence of Frank Lloyd Wright and the Chicago School in the buildings of local architect Louis Hay.
Accommodation
The main lodge houses two Suites, Verandah and McClean, which both offer spacious living and sleeping areas with expansive bathrooms. Also in the main lodge are the three rooms, Sollitt, Lyons and Hudson, each thoughtfully decorated with king sized beds, tasteful decor and en-suite bathrooms. Little Greenhill is a stand-alone villa located within the grounds of Greenhill. The villa has two bedrooms, the master has a king bed and private ensuite bathroom. The second bedroom has twin beds and an adjacent bathroom. There is an extensive deck with expansive rural views, feature log fire and even an outdoor bath.
| Verandah Suite | |
| Hudson Guest Room | |
| Lyons Guest Room | |
| Sollitt Guest Room | |
| McClean Suite | |
| Little Greenhill | |
Childcare
There are no specific facilities available for children at Greenhill except for babysitting which can be arranged on request. However, the nearby towns of Hastings and Napier have plenty of family friendly activities and places to eat.
Facilities
Breakfast is prepared in the fabulous open plan kitchen, although breakfast can also be enjoyed on any number of outdoor tables in the sunshine. There is also a cosy living area, dining room, courtyard and stunning turret lounge with telescope for star gazing.
Activities
Whilst staying at Greenhill Lodge, guests can take part in the inclusive activities of swimming, mountain biking, using the gymnasium, using the billiard room, embark on nature walks, and play some croquet or petanque. There is also a spa at the lodge where you can indulge in some pampering by organising a treatment to suit your needs.
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
Hawkes Bay, New Zealand
Located in the heart of Hawke's Bay wine country, 15-minutes of either Havelock North or Hastings and a comfortable 2-hour drive from Taupo.
How to get there
Regular flights operate from North and South Island centres to Hawke's Bay Airport situated in Napier. It's approximately a 1-hour flight from Auckland or Wellington.