What is it? Bangkok, Thailand-based lebua Hotels & Resorts has ventured off its beaten track and into New Zealand, with this exclusive retreat in Rotorua. The three-suite Lake Okareka Lodge is a world away from the stratospheric Bangkok lebua, which occupies levels 51 to 59 of the State Tower in the Thai capital. Hidden behind the wrought-iron gates of the New Zealand property is a lake-side escape that appeals to those seeking privacy as well as luxury (The Lord of the Rings' director Peter Jackson has been a guest here).
So it's opulent then? Call it a laid-back antipodean kind of opulence that comes with tasteful decor, amazing scenery and Kiwi creativity. It has all the trimmings a tycoon might need in a holiday home, including a personal chef and 24- hour on-call butler. Other facilities include a library with a baby grand piano, an outdoor spa, a gym, a massage room, a well-stocked climate-controlled wine cellar, a helipad, a boat and a seaplane jetty. Throughout the lodge there are installations of contemporary New Zealand art and a remote-console entertainment system that pipes music into every room. On the top floor is the 120-square-metre Lake Okareka suite, which has sweeping views of the lake.
Activities include quaffing wine in the lakeside spa, fly fishing, kayaking and jet skiing. Private fishing guides take guests to nearby Lake Tarawera, to fish for trout. Rotorua is only 15 minutes away but why drive when you can take a helicopter or floatplane, which lands on the lake and whisks guests away for some geothermal sight-seeing.
What's so special about Rotorua? The district is the spiritual home of New Zealand's indigenous people, the Maori, and the therapeutic properties of Rotorua's mineral-rich pools are legendary. People come here to seek relief from skin infections, muscular aches, arthritis and acne. There are a number of spa complexes such as the Polynesian Spa, which has 26 hot-spring pools of varying temperatures and a range of mud therapies.
Is it suitable for children? Even tycoons take their family on holiday, so there's no reason to not bring yours along, too. Accommodation for children under five is free if they share your room while children up to 11 years old cost NZ$250/HK$1,600 extra a night. Babysitting services can be arranged.
Don't tell us, the food isn't bad either? Dining is a major part of the overall experience and the chef will design your menu according to your personal preference. The five-course evening meals are creatively prepared with local ingredients and plenty of heart. Dishes include pistachio-crusted rack of lamb with parsnip pur?e.