31 October 2011

Boutique Hotels & Lodges NZ portfolio includes Pen-y-Bryn Lodge located in the historic township of Oamaru - North Otago. We are proud to announce -

PEN-Y-BRYN LODGE OWNER NAMED CHANCELIER OF NEW ZEALAND CHAINE DES ROTISSEURS

James Glucksman to serve as Vice President on national committee of international gastronomic society

At a gala ceremony in Wellington on 25 July presided over by Jannece Tapsall of Australia, James Glucksman, chef/owner of Oamaru’s historic Pen-y-bryn Lodge, was named to the national committee of the Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, a Paris-based international gastronomic society that brings together people who appreciate and share a mutual interest in cuisine and wine. Glucksman will serve as Chancelier, a position that equates to the organisation’s “chancellor” in New Zealand, under Peter Besseling of Waipara, who will serve as Bailli, or President.

 As part of Glucksman’s duties in his new role, he will seek to expand the activities of the Chaîne in New Zealand, and attract new members. “The Chaîne is the first and so far only gastronomic society that welcomes both professional and non-professional members,” Glucksman said, “and offers an unmatched opportunity for people who appreciate good food and wine to connect with others with similar interests.” Glucksman and Besseling aim to grow the New Zealand Chaîne to 150 members in the country’s three chapters or “bailliages”, located in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch.

Glucksman has been a member of the Chaîne des Rôtisseurs for more than a decade, having joined as a non-professional in the United States before moving to China and becoming an active member of the organisation’s Beijing chapter. Upon relocating to New Zealand in 2010, Glucksman transferred his membership to the Christchurch bailliage.

 “When preparing a meal for a Chaîne function, a chef will pull out all the stops since he or she knows that the diners have certain expectations and sophistication that other diners may not. As a member of the Chaîne myself, I aim to provide all our guests at Pen-y-bryn Lodge with a level of cuisine and service that is a step above what you might find in another establishment,” Glucksman said.

The Chaîne des Rôtisseurs was established in 1950 and traces its routes to the Frenchguild of goose roasters, founded in 1248 under the reign of King Louis IX. The Chaîne des Rôtisseurs today is a truly international gastronomic association, dedicated to honouring the preservation of the traditions and practices of the old French guild in a completely contemporary and international context.

The principal goal of the Chaîne des Rôtisseurs is to bring professional and non- professional, amateur members in over 80 member countries together to celebrate their passion for fine cuisines and wines and to aid and encourage the development of young chefs and sommeliers worldwide through its national and international competitions as well as provide international food support and aid to those in need.

BRONTE COUNTRY ESTATE - NELSON

This beautiful historic country estate sits on Bronte Peninsular the edge of the Waimea Estuary.
The Shoreline Suites upgrade is almost complete with extended ensuites featuring walk-in shower and bath, luxurious soft furnishings and new flooring throughout. Offering a relaxed beach feel with sophistication and style.

Te Koi (Maori for headland) is the ultimate in self-contained personally hosted accommodation. This beautifully appointed villa sleeps up to five and is positioned right on the tip of the historic Bronte Peninsula, giving total seclusion and privacy. It is stylish and luxurious yet informal.The wide deck is perfect for taking in the panoramic estuary and mountain views and a heli-pad provides convenient access to the many internationally renowned attractions in the Nelson region. It is not easy finding premium five-star accommodation for a group or family travelling together - you have found it in Te Koi.

Stay at www.brontecountryestate.co.nz

SARNIA PARK BOUTIQUE LODGE - CAMBRIDGE - WAIKATO

A stunning 5* property set on a 29 acre private estate close to Cambridge, and just 1.5 hours from Auckland.

FLAIR - 13-15 October 2011 at Micro Aviation Te Kowhai Airfield - Hamilton. FLAIR is being modelled off the world-famous air show, Air Venture Oshkosh and will combine exhibitions with aircraft demonstrations and new product launches like the Martin Jetpack.
Located just 40 minutes from Cambridge

Stay at - www.sarniapark.co.nz

EQUIDAYS - to be held 18-20 November 2011 at the Mystery Creek Events Centre. A national showcase of New Zealand’s equine industry. Encompassing all aspects of the equine industry. Located just 19 minutes from Cambridge.

Stay at - www.sarniapark.co.nz

HUNTAWAY LODGE - BAY OF ISLANDS

Located north east of Kerikeri, this contemporary luxury Lodge is perched on the hillside with breathtaking views out to the Cavalli Islands and beyond to the Pacific Ocean. Relax in the spacious and bright guest lounge opening out to wide balcony-decks with sweeping views. Rooms have been designed with flair and feature either King or Queen size beds, ensuite, walk-in shower, flat screen TV, DVDs and fridges. All rooms open to decks and stunning sea views.Or take exclusive use of The Retreat, perched above the main Lodge with amazing views and offering self-contained luxury. Resident Chef, Caroline, will cook up a fabulous breakfast to start you day, arrange a picnic hamper for the days touring, and prepare a 3 course dinner or a relaxed supper plate on request. Just 10 minutes from Kauri Cliff’s famed golf course and 30 minutes from Kerikeri, with its history and charm. Or take a dive over the wreck of the Rainbow Warrior, a helicopter flight over this marine paradise, kayak around the bays or relax in the infinity spa. Rate $415 - $1450 inc GST per night
Visit - www.huntawaylodgenz.com

THE FRENCH COUNTRY HOUSE - TAURANGA

Nestled in the countryside near Tauranga with views out to rolling farmland and beyond to the ocean. This country house has been designed with the all the charm of Provence, featuring a mix of antique and contemporary furnishings, stone and honeyed timber floors, luxury rooms, King-size beds draped in Italian linens, walk-in showers,claw foot baths and romantic chandeliers.
Chef and Host, Siobhan, trained at Ballymaloe Cooking School in Ireland, and is a member of the Slow Food Movement. Siobhan will cook you a gourmet farmhouse breakfast, arrange a picnic hamper for your days touring, stock up the ‘goodies fridge’ with tempting treats, arrange canapes and drinks followed by a 6 course degustation dinner including NZ fine wines.
Walk all this off with a horse trek across the farm or a leisurely stroll with Cheyenne, the resident donkey, feed the chickens, take a horse-riding lesson with their qualified instructor.Other options include Game Fishing or Hunting, helicopter flights out to New Zealand’s live volcanic White Island, or a leisurely round of golf at nearby golf courses. Rate $990 - $1150 + GST per night
Visit - www.thefrenchcountryhouse.co.nz

RUGBY WORLD CUP

Rugby World Cup is fast approaching and Taupo is lucky enough to be hosting the Irish, Welsh and South African teams. Acacia Cliffs Lodge still has availability throughout September and October but enquiries and bookings are gaining momentum. Rather than inflated pricing, we offer ‘business as usual rates’ and as a keen rugby fan and ex rugby player, Rick will be on hand to ensure your clients enjoy an authentic ‘rugby influenced’ Acacia Cliffs experience. The lodge is within a two hour radius for guests attending Pool Games in Hamilton, Napier and Palmerston North and only forty minutes drive for the Rotorua games making it an ideal base or a relaxed half way break between Wellington and Auckland in the lead up to the finals. Contact Rick or Linda info@acaciacliffslodge.co.nz www.acaciacliffslodge.co.nz

Come on a culinary journey with Boutique Hotels & Lodges. Our properties offer a superb showcase of the best food and wine that New Zealand produces.

THE BOATSHED - WAIHEKE ISLAND

Peter Upton, their resident chef, has access to the freshest vegetables and herbs from ‘The Veggie Patch’ located on the property. Delicacies are sourced daily with a focus on fresh, organic produce,together with succulent seafood and gourmet meat cuts.
The lights dim, the candles are lit for a memorable private dining experience which is exclusive to The Boatshed in-house guests. Summer or winter - the views are stunning. Barefoot Luxury - visit www.boatshed.co.nz

HOTEL DeBRETT - AUCKLAND CITY

Kitchen Restaurant’s award-winning Head Chef, Mark Sycamore, has a flair for vibrant casual gourmet cuisine, using only the freshest, locally sourced ingredients. Begin your evening with a cocktail in the art deco styled ‘Housebar’ followed by an intimate dinner by candlelight under the glass-roofed atrium. Visit - www.hoteldebrett.co.nz

SARNIA PARK BOUTIQUE LODGE - CAMBRIDGE

Under the direction of Executive Chef - Carlos Martinez,the emphasis is on healthy, uncomplicated and fantastic tasting cuisine. Produce is sourced from the freshest of seasonally inspired ingredients.Enjoy fine dining set in the elegant surroundings of this magnificent lodge. Visit - www.sarniapark.co.nz

ACACIA CLIFFS LODGE - TAUPO

Enjoy an intimate candlelight dinner for two on one of the spacious decks or share an exceptional evening meal with your hosts and other guests in the dining room, overlooking the lake and lights of Taupo. Your hosts Linda and Rick’s love of good food and wine is showcased in produce sourced from their own garden and local providers and producers.  Chic and stylish - visit www.acaciacliffs.co.nz

GLEN AROS COUNTRY ESTATE - HAVELOCK NORTH

This gracious 1914 homestead set in beautiful country gardens, offers private casual or fine dining exclusive to Glen Aros guests. Their Michelin star Chef will create an intimate dinner for two or gourmet picnic lunches and hampers for that day out touring, or an al fresco barbecue by the heated infinity pool. Relax and visit www.glenaros.co.nz

THE CHARLOTTE-JANE - CHRISTCHURCH

Intimate candle-lit dinners or alfresco casual, offering diners a romantic setting to complement the finest of New Zealand food and wines. The Restaurant has a cosy intimate atmosphere, or for those warm balmy evenings, dine outdoors in the garden conservatory - visit www.charlotte-jane.co.nz

PEN-Y-BRYN LUXURY LODGE - OAMARU

Dine at this historic mansion - the candlelit table adorned with fresh flowers, sparkling crystal, crisp white linen and polished silver, add to the overall luxurious atmosphere. The lodge is a member of the Slow Food Movement (the international movement to save regional cooking) and their chef is an Officier Maitre Hotelier of the Chaine des Rotisseurs, Balliage de Christchurch. Visit - www.penybryn.co.nz

It is now more than a month since the tragic Christchurch earthquake, and the centre of the CBD is still closed off with a number of hotels currently unusable. While the cleanup/rebuild will be a long task there is still much of the city and surrounding areas that can cater for visitors. The international airport is fully operational, the long distance road network is intact and the famous TranzAlpine express train is operating again daily to the West Coast. Places within easy reach of Christchurch include the French-influenced Akaroa, the hot springs at Hanmer and of course the whale watching mecca of Kaikoura. Continue on to Marlborough and Nelson. Or drive South to Oamaru - North Otago. Our two properties in the Christchurch area are both up and running normally and an overview of some of our lodges in the South Island is given below.

CHRISTCHURCH AND THE SURROUNDING AREA THE CHARLOTTE JANE - www.charlotte-jane.co.nz - this heritage listed luxury boutique hotel is located in Merivale and outside the CBD. Offering 19th century surroundings with 21st century facilities and exceptional service. Beautifully appointed spacious rooms and suites feature four poster beds, open fires, chandeliers and large ensuite bathrooms with spa baths and separate showers.Their on-site restaurant is known for its sophisticated fresh cuisine showcasing New Zealand’s high quality produce. This is the perfect base to explore the regions of Christchurch and environs.

CLEARVIEW LODGE - www.clearviewlodge.com - located just 6kms from Christchurch International Airport and next to the renowned Clearwater Golf Course - ideal for those avid golfers. This luxury lodge is set on manicured grounds and has it’s own vineyard - Clements Estate - wander amongst the vines, glass in hand for a wine tasting. Luxury suites with views to the Southern Alps or the Port Hills. Visit the Antarctic Centre located near the international airport or head out to the environs of Canterbury - easy access on the outskirts of the city.

Drive North up the striking Kaikoura Coastal highway to the seaside town of Kaikoura and stay at KINCAID LODGE - www.kincaidlodge.co.nz. Literally set between the mountains and the sea this homely lodge with guest rooms all opening onto wrap around verandahs with views to the mountains or the sea. Hosts Jessica and Greg are superb - look what Trip Advisor is saying -’A beautiful place, truly luxury accommodation with fantastic hosts”Wow - I don’t write reviews but this was so good I just had to!”Greg and Jessica are passionate about what they do and it really shows from the moment you arrive to when you leave they make you feel special”‘Absolutely loved it’ ‘6 our of 5 stars’ …….check it out

Just a short drive North West and heading inland towards Marlborough - New Zealand’s largest winegrowing region - enjoy the luxurious surroundings at OLD ST MARY’s CONVENT - www.convent.co.nz located amongst the vines on 10 hectares of gardens, vineyards, orchards, pools, and it’s own St Michael’s church - perfect for weddings, or that moment of quiet contemplation during a busy trip. The large guest suites are beautifully appointed with ensuites featuring separate baths and showers. Library, guest lounges, dining room, billiard room - so much to occupy your time yet so many places to just relax. Award winning restaurants nearby - a cooking class and Winemakers Table package can be arranged or just kick back and enjoy a Supper Plate and a bottle of wine at The Convent.

Want a self catering option? Take a look at VINTNER’s RETREAT - www.vintnersretreat.co.nz. 14 separate luxury villas set amongst the vines, fully self contained with two-three bedrooms, full kitchens, 2 bathrooms, laundry, BBQ, patio. Recently refurbished offering style and space,and in an excellent location for touring the region.

Further North West just a short drive takes you to Nelson and out to the seaside village of Mapua to BRONTE COUNTRY ESTATE - www.brontecountryestate.co.nz. This historic homestead is set amongst stunning manicured gardens with four separate luxury villas and suites set around the edge of the Bronte Peninsular - all with water views. Spacious with kitchenettes and beautifully appointed. The 2 bedroom Te Koi villa is a self contained luxury villa set on Bronte Point - chic, style and perfect for that intimate getaway. Daniel is a fabulous host and superb chef whipping up breakfast from locally sourced produce with eggs from the homestead hens.

Heading South from Christchurch to Oamaru and the historic country mansion - PEN-Y-BRYN LUXURY LODGE - www.penybryn.co.nz. Set on a hill overlooking the lovely stone township of Oamaru and out to the Pacific Ocean the hosts here will make you feel so welcome. Canapes and drinks in the evening followed by a fabulous 4 course dinner - James is a Chef and a member of the Slow Food Movement, and is an Officier Maitre Hotelier of the Chaine des Rotisseurs Bailliage de Christchurch.Explore the historic town centre of Oamaru with it’s boutique shops and cafes, or head out to the lovely Waitaki Valley for a spot of fly fishing or wine tasting. Drive south to Moeraki to explore the famous Moeraki Boulders and make time for lunch at Fleurs Restaurant - world famous for its superb seafood. Oamaru is becoming quite the foodie epicentre of the South Island.

There is no space to continue our travels further in this newsletter but we will follow with another episode at a later time.ENJOY!!!!