Luxury hotel holiday Greenhill the Lodge Hawke's Bay

Greenhill is an historic house set amongst thirty acres of picturesque park-like grounds, enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding hilly countryside amidst the Hawke's Bay vineyards. The house dates from the turn of the 20th Century and is an outstanding example of New Zealand's high Victorian wooden architecture. Built of heart totara from the Whakapirau Forest, Greenhill also features rimu and matai panelling and matai flooring throughout. There is also delicate hand-painted stained glass throughout the house. The extensive gardens are delightful and abound in both ornamental trees and fruit trees of great variety including citrus, apple and pear. Six of the original trees planted at Greenhill are registered with the Notable Trees Register and include a white elm, medlar and holm oak. The interior of the house has extensive wood panelling and has the feel of a country home. All bedrooms are located on the ground floor of the building and include the room that Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother stayed in during her tour of New Zealand in 1958. The living and dining areas have been decorated skilfully by the present owners with a mixture of classic contemporary furniture and antiques as well as displays of paintings of local artists. There is a large open-plan kitchen and breakfast room that is very cosy. A verandah stretches around the building and offers both shady and sunny seating, depending on the time of day. To the rear of the house is an outdoor swimming pool, spa pool, log fireplace and seating. The standard of the hospitality and cuisine is very high and a stay here is a real highlight of any visit to New Zealand. Whilst the bedrooms are not as large in comparison with those in purpose-built luxury lodges, the overall atmosphere of Greenhill is one of delight. The region holds numerous attractions and is scenically very beautiful.