Rosewood Hotels & Resorts enters New Zealand

Three of Aotearoa New Zealand’s most prestigious and luxurious lodges joined the Rosewood Hotels & Resorts portfolio on Dec 1, 2023

Rosewood Hotels & Resorts entered into a management agreement with Robertson Lodges and took over management of Rosewood Kauri Cliffs, Rosewood Cape Kidnappers and Rosewood Matakauri on Dec 1, 2023.

The move marked Rosewood’s entry into Oceania as part of a wider international growth strategy and underscores the growing appeal of New Zealand as an attractive destination for affluent travellers. “New Zealand’s inspiring natural beauty and warm hospitality have truly captivated us, and we are thrilled to embark on this remarkable journey with Robertson Lodges,” said Sonia Cheng, Chief Executive Officer of Rosewood Hotel Group.

Robertson Lodges was founded by Julian and Josie Robertson in 2001, with the three lodges, frequented by luxury travellers seeking a warm and authentic hospitality experience in some of the country’s most coveted and naturally striking destinations.

“It is with great respect and admiration that we seek to honour the Robertson family’s original vision by further elevating the guest experience offered at each resort with Rosewood’s singular approach to ultra-luxury hospitality”, added Cheng.

Starting from the top of the country, Rosewood Kauri Cliffs sits within a 6,000-acre coastal estate near the Bay of Islands, in Northland. Along with 26 suites and villas, it offers guests three private beaches, a sheep and cattle farm, and an 18-hole championship golf course.

Further down the North Island’s east coast, Rosewood Cape Kidnappers is set magnificently on a rugged cliffside overlooking the ocean in the Hawke’s Bay region, known for producing some of New Zealand’s most renowned wines. Twenty-four suites and villas are complemented by a golf course designed by Tom Doak, and a privately funded wildlife restoration project.

In the South Island’s Central Otago region, Rosewood Matakauri is surrounded by Aotearoa’s famed alpine scenery in Queenstown, loved by travellers for its adventure travel experiences. It offers just 13 rooms, suites and villas, with wellness facilities and a restaurant. Guests can choose from activities such as hiking, snow sports, and wine tours to experience this renowned region.

At the time of the announcement, Rosewood said it would retain the spirit of each property while refreshing the guest experience in line with its A Sense of Place® philosophy.

“My family and I are delighted to partner with Rosewood Hotels & Resorts to continue the personal style of hotel management our parents put in place when they opened The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs over 20 years ago. Rosewood’s origin story also began with an individual family’s dream and an unwavering passion for hospitality. These are values they held on to while growing into one of the world’s most impressive hotel groups” said Jay Robertson. “This new chapter is an exciting one as we continue to share the quintessential New Zealand experience that Robertson Lodge guests love so much.”

rosewoodhotels.com