Hawke's Bay among finest in top list

Sophie Fisher, marketing executive, with Kristine Kiipatrick, head of hospitality, Craggy Range Winery, at The Craggy Range Lodge, which was named in the top five luxury lodges in New Zealand.

Hawke's Bay's luxury lodges have been given international recognition.

Craggy Range Lodge and The Farm at Cape Kidnappers were named among the top 5 'New Zealand Luxury Lodges' as part of Harrods magazine's June edition.

Marketing Executive Craggy Range, Sophie Fischer said they were honoured to have the luxury department store include them in their list, especially given that they are relatively new.

"We have world class aspiration with our wine making and wanted to make sure that the accommodation we have on site was aligned. Originally it was going to be a small update to the existing house, but when we looked at the incredible standard of luxury lodges in New Zealand we realised we would need to invest to hit that world class aspiration," Ms Fischer said.

The lodge, which opened at the beginning of 2016 boasts four king bedrooms, each with ensuite, spacious open-plan living and chef's kitchen, formal living area with dining and sitting areas by an impressive open fireplace, in-ground pool and a private courtyard with uninterrupted views of Te Mata Peak, lush lawns and gardens.

"The lodge, set in lush green surroundings, sits high above the Tukituki Valley with generous views from each of the bedrooms. As part of the lodge stay Michael Bancks, New Zealand's leading sommelier, will host an in-lodge private wine tasting. He will take guests through a selection of the latest release wines as well as a collection of rare wines not available elsewhere."

Also included in the 'Off the Beaten-Track' issue were Annandale Coastal Farm Escape & Luxury Villa Collection in Pigeon Bay on the South Island, The Lodge At The Kinloch Club and Huka Lodge in Taupo.

"To be a part of those lodges in New Zealand is absolutely fantastic. We are right on track."