This place is over the top amazing!! Can I just move in here permanently? Please? I recently stayed at the Lodge at Kauri Cliffs and was blown away by the luxury that surrounded me during my stay. First of all, this location, while it seems way out there, is only a 4 hour drive from Auckland. Its location is a bit hidden so look for the discrete signs along the way. Once you announce yourself at the front gate, the gates swing open and you find yourself driving through beautiful farmland with the Bay of Islands coming up on the horizon. By the time you get to the main house, someone will be out on the sweeping porch to greet you and bring you inside. A glass of bubbly is handed to you as you are escorted out to the back porch to see the beautiful vistas and to be told about all the Lodge has to offer. Finally, you are escorted to one of only 22 rooms (more like little cottages) that are placed along a wooded path that is oh so private and a portent of wonderful things to come! As I pulled open the door of my cottage, I felt instantly relaxed. On the left was a spacious bathroom with a huge windowed tub, large shower and two sinks stocked with plush towels on warming bars and plenty of scented bath and body products. To my right, a large walk in closet with tons of hangars, a safe and drawer space rivaling that which I have at home. There is also a complimentary bar area that is stocked with food for your enjoyment. Beer and soda are free, you only pay for wine and alcohol. And then the main room. A beautiful King bed piled high with plush linens. A gas fireplace with chairs surrounding it and warm throws for those chilly nights. And a beautiful porch with chaises for just relaxing and taking in the beautiful vista beyond. I think I was in heaven! And while cell service is spotty at best, the Internet worked great and kept me in touch with the outside world. Meals are included in your room rate with 3 meals prepared by an excellent chef as well as daily cocktails and canapés served at 6pm each day allowing you to meet the other guests at the Lodge. While this is primarily a golf resort ( rated in the top 100 golf courses in the world) there is also a spa, an outdoor pool and lounge area as well as 3 gorgeous beaches to picnic on , ride horses, or just to swim and enjoy the great weather. A couple of shout outs have to go to some of the incredible staff members that I met during my stay. To Tanya at the front desk, your smile and enthusiasm and warm welcome made every day I saw you a little more special. Thanks for always having the "buggy" ready to go! And to Jack and Michael in the restaurant, I thank you for always keeping my wine glass full of the best wine and my plate filled with amazing food. You three staffers alone are worth a return visit! Of course all of this comes at a steep price but with meals included and the beauty of the place it is well worth every penny! Wonderful resort, with great staff and top end service all the way. I'll ask again. . . . .can I just move in permanently? read more

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