Recently, four of the Southern Crossings team set off into the heart of the North Island to indulge in a weekend at two unique properties. Our first stop was Treetops, located 20 minutes drive south of Rotorua. It is quite an adventurous drive to the lodge but once you arrive the bush unfolds to a clearing where the main lodge stands and you realise instantly it was well worth the journey.
The lodge blends harmoniously with the surrounding native trees and is built over a natural stream - if you are lucky you can see trout swimming as you cross the bridge to the entrance! One of the most wonderful experiences was waking in the morning to see the sun streaming through the magnificent surrounding trees. In complete tranquility we explored some of the numerous bush trails, which lead to waterfalls, glow worm caves and a deer was even spotted on the front lawn!
Treetops is an intimate lodge of six luxuriously appointed villas for the discerning traveler - will also be of appeal to an outdoor lover who will appreciate the calm and revitalizing spirit of this peaceful bush environment.
The next stop was Poronui Ranch. Created by New Zealand's fly fishing guru Simon Dickie, Poronui has been recently renovated to position itself as one of New Zealand's leading sporting lodges located 30 minutes drive south of Taupo. In contrast with the enclosed bush setting of Treetops the vast expanse of rugged terrain at Poronui is striking. The lodge and individual chalets have been extensively refurbished to a high standard. Board a helicopter to fly over the 16,000 acre property (the best way to get an insight into this wilderness retreat).
Poronui boasts 25 miles of private streams (a fly fishing paradise), native bush, forests of beech and native ferns and alpine meadows of wild grasses. After a quick 3 minute flight (although I understand it takes a full day by horse!) we landed at the most magical of locations on the banks of Poronui's Mohaka River - stylish safari-style tents available for lodge guests on a fully-serviced basis for luxury overnight camp-outs. Our next landing was at the amazing sports and relaxation centre complete with gym and health club facilities - including steam and sauna rooms, and massage treatment rooms. Also located in this complex is a fabulous outdoor dining table and fireplace fit for a feast and an outstanding wine cellar boasting over 10,000 bottles!
Poronui has a relaxed and intimate lodge atmosphere and is perfect for those who love outdoor adventure activities yet still want all the comforts of a small luxury resort. Fish, ride, walk, clay pigeon shoot, exercise or relax, Poronui is chic rustic charm in a particularly stunning setting.