Gourmet Stays

Accommodations in The Collection are known for a high standard of hosting, comfortable and luxurious facilities, excellent locations, good food and wine and a small “boutique” atmosphere. You get to meet the hosts, your travel arrangements and personal requests are looked after, you are welcomed as a friend as well as a guest. You can advise ahead particular dietary requirements, bedding arrangements, personal interests, plan for dinner in-house on the night you arrive or request a restaurant booking in town.

Many of our lodges offer in-house dining for guests only. The chef is your personal chef for the night and the menu changes nightly and with the seasons, designed around local specialities and often produce from the lodge garden. Wine is from the vineyards of the region. Part of the enjoyment of this style of travel is not only the level of comfort, but the opportunity to meet other guests, over breakfast, evening appetisers, drinks or dinner; discussing your day's activities and plans for the next day, travel in other countries, world affairs, good food and wine, whilst enjoying the magnificent view in front of you. You become part of a community, of like-minded travellers and through your New Zealand hosts you will also learn about the local community you are visiting. Your hosts will direct you to the best wineries and tours or visits to small producers of honeys, cheeses, herbs, olive oils, game meats and charcuterie, local fisheries etc... New Zealand has an abundant supply of agricultural produce and small artisanal food suppliers. New Zealand venison is unsurpassed and our wines, cheeses and fruit are also superb. 

Must try: thyme, Kahikitea and Manuka honey, feijoas, Marlborough Sauvignon blanc, Bluff Oysters, Central Otago pinot noir, Hawkes Bay Merlot, Syrah and Chardonnay, Nelson apples and feijoas, Waiheke Island Olive Oils, Central Otago cherries, apricots, plums and peaches.