Situated on the north-west coast of Waiheke Island, a thirty-five minute ferry ride from downtown Auckland lies Delamore Lodge. Unfolding onto a tapestry of vineyards, forests and farmland, the Lodge promises a bounty of opportunities for exploration and intrepid outings, with stretching views over the beautiful Hauraki Gulf and the Coromandel Peninsula. Vast stretches of water, olive groves and citrus trees pepper the landscape surrounding Delamore Lodge. World-famous wineries beckon, the biggest draw of the island; keen oenophiles should be sure to make a date with one of the thirty boutique wineries.

Each Suite has a plush Californian King or a Super-King bed, a curved stone-wall interior and a private balcony, the perfect place for beholding a multi-hued Waiheke Island sunset. High above the Lodge, the two bedroom Whareto Apartment opens out onto magnificent views of the Gulf. Lovingly decorated, walls have been hand-plastered and furnishings display a classic, understated aspect, allowing vistas from the balcony to remain the centerpiece. A cohesive mix of Mediterranean and Māori unfold into an enticing dichotomy at Delamore Lodge; its colour palette, which reflects echoes of Tuscany in muted sandy-brown tones, and its architectural shape, that of a low-slung adobe building depicting a matau, a Māori fish hook.

Thought to be a place that boasts its own unique microclimate, Waiheke Island, fondly named ‘The Island of Wine’ is usually several degrees warmer than Auckland, providing rich ground for the production of some of the region’s greatest joys, olives and wine. Dining at Delamore Lodge is the cradle of any stay here; chefs strive to create meals that are above all else fresh and sourced locally, such as Rangihoua olive oil, olives from the garden, citrus fruits from the onsite trees, miche, a local sheep milk cheese and oysters from Te Matukua Bay.

The day spa unveils blissful treatments and healing techniques to guests, including the practice of Reiki and Chinese acupressure. Treatment rooms are located next to the cavernous Jacuzzi and the swimming pool. Embracing everything Polynesian too, spa packages deliver inimitable massages that draw on the nectars of the sea.