Pakiri Point Boutique Lodge
28/02/2013
Luxury Homestay experience & executive retreat
Catering and hospitality icon, Rae Ah Chee has, together with business partners and co-hosts Evelyn and Billy Chong, established the latest luxury accommodation and hospitality offering in the popular Pakiri region. Located just 80 minutes drive north of Auckland, Pakiri is on the scenic eastern coastline and is surrounded by white sandy beaches, bays and some of the regions most revered holiday spots.
Nestled sympathetically atop the cliffs of the expansive Pakiri Beach, Pakiri Point Lodge has already scooped design and construction accolades including that of sustainable living. With only the sheep on the adjacent ARC (Auckland Regional Council) land sharing the uninterrupted vista of the gulf and outlying islands, guests to Pakiri Point Lodge will not be found wanting for an experience that showcases the very best of this region.
With a ‘Heart of the Home’ kitchen design award already on the wall, guests will be drawn to the state-of-the- art commercial kitchen and will not be disappointed by the treats it produces – using local and organic produce wherever possible, the kitchen is very much Rae’s domain with Evelyn providing exceptional baking support from her customised baker’s pantry.
Every element from design to construction has been executed with luxury and sustainability in mind. A resin encased 350kg ancient swamp kauri dining table takes centre stage in the formal dining area whilst extensive native plantings entice local birdlife to the slopes and add to the distinctly natural flavour of this property.
In harmony with the white sands of Pakiri that stretch out below are naturally chiselled limestone pillars crafted from 150 tonnes of Te Kuiti stone. Everything including the sunken wine cellar and dining area are of significant proportions adding an element of substance and craftsmanship that is exceptional in itself.
On arrival, guests are warmly welcomed by their hosts and the aesthetic pleasures of this region starts right at the door with a large acrylic, oil and pastel on canvas landscape titled ‘Ti Point Series IV’ which Rae commissioned from renowned local artist, Virginia Leonard.
An eclectic, yet elegant collection of antiquities and local works adorn the Lodge, which features five ocean facing luxury guest suites furnished and fitted to an exceptional standard. From the comforts of Pakiri Point Lodge, guests can explore the vast array of activities and experiences on offer in surrounding Matakana, Leigh and Pakiri Beach.
From artisan foods to award winning wines, crafts and soft adventure activities this coastal region is a Mecca for experience seekers looking to indulge their senses in some of the country’s finest culinary, wine and artisan offerings.