Fodor's Expert Review The Homestead at Orongo Bay

Editor's Note: This location is reported to be under new ownership and therefore this review may contain inaccuracies.

Tucked away in gardens off the road between the car-ferry landing and Russell, this historic lodge, built in 1865, soothes with peace and quiet—which is why it has hosted several famous guests who want to relax in peace. The two rooms in the main homestead have kauri ceilings and paneling built in a New England colonial style, with large, tiled bathrooms. A pair of two-level barn rooms set back from the main building have angled roofs and skylights. Sumptuous multicourse dinners are cooked (by prior arrangement and at extra cost) by chef and co-owner Michael Hooper with ingredients grown on the property.