Hotel Overview

Delamore Lodge is nestled into the hillside, one hundred yards above the sheltered waters of Owhanake Bay on the north-western tip of Waiheke Island (36ºS, 175ºE). Auckland city, New Zealand's international gateway, is just 19 kilometres away as the gulls fly.

And with vistas like Delamore's, is it any wonder New Zealand is revered as 'godzone'; the place Christopher Columbus would have been most happy to sail off the edge of the earth for, if only he had discovered it. Lush green islands near and far merging seamlessly into azure skies and sea. Becalmed sailboats or wind-whipped white horses, your gaze is drawn ever seaward.

The short journey to Waiheke Island is a treat in itself. To reach the lodge guests can choose to fly directly from Auckland International Airport enjoying a stunning aerial view of Auckland city and the Hauraki Gulf. Delamore Lodge has a private helicopter pad, you can land directly on site - from the airport to sitting in your suite in 10 minutes. Or alternatively, experience Auckland's harbour and skyline from a great vantage point on the regular ferry service from the downtown ferry terminal.

Helicopter flights are available from Heli-Flight, Heletranz and Helilink. The Fuller's Ferry service has an average of 17 sailings per day, takes just 35 minutes, and costs NZ$24 return. Inspired by hours spent on the land, the timeless romance of the Mediterranean, and the image of a Maori bone fishhook (matau), local architect Ron Stevenson together with the owner, Roselyn Barnett-Storey, has designed a remarkable building that affords breathtaking views, sensuality, and a oneness with its unique environment.

Literally moulded into the hillside at Owhanake Bay, each level flows seamlessly into the next.

A sweeping stairway links the dramatic entrance directly to the library, and on to the spacious guest lounge and dining area. From the library you can also wander into the central courtyard which features a tropical rock pool and waterfall, a deep, cave-like Jacuzzi, a sauna, health and beauty therapy rooms, and a wine cellar. The courtyard in turn cascades into the striking, Italian-style fireplace and outdoor dining area which is flanked by the lounge and the four luxurious guest suites.

To blend in with nature, the walls of the lodge are handcrafted curved and textured plaster. Similarly, the colour-scheme is entirely natural, satisfying primal senses: sandy browns and rich chocolates contrasted by pockets of lush green foliage and, of course, the ever-changing blue of the Hauraki Gulf.

Delamore Lodge has four luxury guest suites, Awatea (dawn), Motu (island), Mahana (warm) and Moana (ocean). Each suite affords guests with total privacy, the finest facilities and, of course, the magical view of the Hauraki Gulf.

All north-facing, the suites have been specially designed to maximize your enjoyment of the view. Whether you are relaxing in a plump armchair or on the super-king-size bed, soaking in the bath, or lazing in the sun on your private patio, the sea is always directly before you.

Just imagine it. You can watch the sun rise without leaving bed. You can feel a sea breeze on your face while you soak in a hot bath with a glass of chilled Waiheke Chardonnay - just slide open the full-length window - you're almost outside!

Suites also feature a magnificent open shower (view included, of course), a mini bar, fine linens, luxury robes, and a hideaway DVD/CD entertainment system (a wide selection of CDs and DVDs are available from the library).