Two New Zealand Hotels Make Respected Fodor’s Best of List

Wharekauhau Lodge in the Wairarapa and Waipoua Lodge in Northland have both been selected for the prestigious 2014 Fodor’s 100 Hotel Awards, which honours the best hotels around the world.

Lodge manager Richard Rooney told the Wairarapa News he was rapt the lodge made the list. “Fodor’s is a very well-respected publication so we are absolutely thrilled.”

What makes it more special, Rooney says, is the category of “Trip of a Lifetime”.

“Wharekauhau is such a special place, it is just such a fitting category.”

The Fodor’s review reads: “A working sheep station meets bygone-era elegance at this unique coastal getaway 90 minutes from Wellington City, on a 5000-acre estate with an Edwardian-style main lodge surrounded by 13 guest cottages, each with king-size bed, small patio, and an open fireplace. Wharekauhau began as a sheep-farming station in 1840 and continues to house sheep and cattle today – only now the grazing herds are joined by world travelers roaming the property.”

And in the “Small Hotels” category, Waipoua Lodge: “Renovations of this 100 year-old kauri farmhouse and its buildings have created a sophisticated and relaxing place to stay in the northern end of the North Island. You can stroll through the native bush on the property, or enjoy a private hot tub by candlelight on a balcony overlooking the forest.”

Original article by Fodors, September 2014.