THE KIT

One of the lodge's chief attractions is its David Harmanto-designed golf course, ranked in the world's top 40. The six cliff-top holes enjoy lovely vistas over the bay, while the rest wind their way through farmland and patches of rainforest. Non-golfers can take a farm tour, visit one of the property's three beaches – including one with pink sand – or spend some time in the spa. Follow the rainforest path to the tranquil spa, which offers superb facials and massages. There is also a sauna, a glass-walled indoor lap pool and Jacuzzi, and a gym. Other amenities include (well-hidden) tennis and basketball courts. Mountain bikes are also available.

COMFORT FACTOR

The guest rooms have a chic beach-house feel, with raw timber walls, rattan chairs draped with soft blankets, and a colour scheme of cream and caramel. The dimensions are generous: the big marble bathroom includes two sinks, a large bath tub and a separate shower, and there are his and hers wardrobes. The mini-bar contains complimentary soft drinks, beer and snacks (cookies, crisps, popcorn and chocolate), as well as coffee and tea, while the verandah has lovely views out over the water. All the rooms have wi-fi. The room's most irresistible feature is the super-king sized bed, topped with a cosy, ultra-light doona. This is a place where getting out of bed in the morning is a test of character.

FOOD

The standard tariff includes breakfast and dinner. Lunches are available for an extra fee; if you are golfing, they can be delivered to you out of the fairway. The breakfast buffet is augmented with a selection of hot dishes; service starts at 7am and finishes when the last guest is done. Dinner is a slightly formal affair – jackets for gentlemen are required – and the menu changes every night. Dishes might include snapper with Moroccan couscous and vegetables, or venison with red cabbage. A degustation option is also available. Desserts are superb. Private dining in the Green Room and the Tiger Room is also available. As you'd expect, the wine list is heavy on New Zealand wines, but selections from France and Australia are included. If for some reason you need a night off – slobbing around in your room with a pizza, say – the staff will make it happen.

WORTH STEPPING OUT FOR

It's all about the outdoors here. Golfing is top of the list, of course, but sailing, riding and relaxing are also popular. There are a number of hikes across the property, from the short walk to the 700-year-old kauri tree to the waterfall, a two-hour walk. Shore fishing is another popular option, with snapper a frequent catch. Still want more? Try horse riding and bird watching, take a picnic to one of the beaches, or join in on a night time possum hunt.  Further afield, day cruises, salt water fishing, wreck diving, boar hunting, quad biking and scenic helicopter tours are all available. 

THE VERDICT

At some luxury lodges, it's all about high style. At others, it's about the signature experiences. Kauri Cliffs, by contrast, is the place you go when you need a break from all of that. Play some golf, have the odd massage, and let the staff spoil you. It's relaxation pure. 

HOW TO GET THERE

There is a daily half-hour flight to Keri Keri from Auckland; the transfer from the airport takes half an hour. Driving time from Auckland is around four hours.

ESSENTIALS

Rates at Kauri Cliffs start from $730 per person a night twin share, including breakfast, pre-dinner drinks and dinner; a "winter special" until September 30 includes all that plus  unlimited green fees, or a 50-minute massage per person from $740 per night.  Phone +64 9 407 0010, see www.kauricliffs.com