A luxury lodge where you can book in for a meal is rare but, on this estate, nestled beneath the stunning Remutaka Range, you can experience the ‘wild beautiful luxury’ of the surrounds and the menu. Chef Norka Mella Munoz has the homegrown food bowl that surrounds her to draw on plus a community of suppliers that makes celebrating local a natural focus. Despite its aura of exclusivity, there is that cosy, casual feeling of Kiwi hospitality at this grand old hideaway. At the time of our visit, the lodge delivered both a tasting menu and à la carte options. The confit kingfish on a sensational brown butter hummus was beautifully presented; crayfish came poached in a vibrant tomato water and perched on a braised bed of fennel, and a perfectly executed Lamb Wellington held the flavours of the estate front and centre, surrounded by roasted vege hand-picked from the kitchen garden with a beetroot ice cream that was both unexpected and outstanding. Foley wines and others handpicked for provenance advance this unique story. Check website for opening hours MAINS: Dégustation $175 per person