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A New Journey Begins: Rosewood Hotels and Resorts Welcomes Guests To The Beauty Of New Zealand

Rosewood Assumes Management of Three Iconic Resorts Rosewood Cape Kidnappers, Rosewood Matakauri and Rosewood Kauri Cliffs Marking its Highly Anticipated Debut to New Zealand.

Released 1 December 2023

Rosewood Hotels and Resorts today assumed management of three renowned New Zealand resorts, adding Rosewood Kauri Cliffs, Rosewood Cape Kidnappers, and Rosewood Matakauri to its collection. Formerly known as Robertson Lodges, these spectacular lodges, each situated in quintessential destinations, now form an integral part of Rosewood Hotels and Resorts’ expanding portfolio.

The ribbon cutting of the three lodges took place in Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand at Rosewood Cape Kidnappers, with the Robertson family (represented by the three sons of lodge founders, philanthropists and visionaries Julian and Josie Roberston, Spencer, Jay and Alex) officially bestowing the management of their family owned lodges to Rosewood Hotels and Resorts, represented at the official event by Hoss Vetry, Rosewood Hotel Group’s Vice President of Operations for the APAC region.

After a traditional New Zealand Maori blessing, Jay Robertson, on behalf of his family, enthusiastically heralded the three lodges into an exciting new era under the Rosewood management. The latest milestone of Rosewood’s intentional and ongoing growth strategy, these additions mark Rosewood's entry into the Oceania region. They also underscore Rosewood’s commitment to championing storied properties in some of the most remarkable destinations around the world.

With great respect for the heritage of the lodges and the foundation that the Robertson family has built, Rosewood will carefully preserve and sustain the friendly service and care for native culture that have defined these destinations over the decades," said Hoss Vetry, Vice President of Operations, APAC, Rosewood Hotel Group. "As we embark on this exciting journey, we are committed to taking the resorts to new heights under Rosewood’s guidance, ensuring that the quintessential spirit of each property and the collection at large continues to thrive into the future.”

Rosewood’s entrance into this highly captivating area of the Pacific demonstrates the brand’s commitment to expanding the horizons of ultra-luxury travel. Continuing a strong commitment to instilling its signature A Sense of Place philosophy, while channeling a differentiated approach to service that has contributed to the collection’s notoriety around the world, Rosewood brings a new level of luxury lifestyle to this destination.

“My family and I could not be happier to be partnering with Rosewood Hotels and Resorts, as they are truly a revered and professional hospitality brand, widely admired on the international stage” “My parents put heart and soul into these special New Zealand lodges which they started over twenty three years ago, and my brothers and I believe they would be very happy to see this new relationship with Rosewood develop as we move forward and grow together.”

Jay Robertson

About Rosewood

Rosewood is an ever-evolving global collection of hotels, resorts, and residences, born through the discovery of remarkable places. With 42 one-of-a-kind destinations, each property celebrates the culture and community that shapes it, upholding the ideal of hospitality as mutually revitalizing. Every detail is intricately woven to tell the story of the place, offering unexpected moments of discovery and connection. Rosewood Residences extends this spirit, inspiring a life where belonging and curiosity enrich every day.

For more information, please visit rosewoodhotelgroup.com

Connect with us: Instagram, Facebook, WeChat @RosewoodHotels

About Rosewood Cape Kidnappers

Rosewood Cape Kidnappers is a refined countryside escape, perched atop a windswept peninsula looking out over Hawke’s Bay. A testament to New Zealand’s farming way of life, a stay here is one of wild beauty and enriching connection to the land. Shaped by panoramic views and reclaimed materials, the architecture and interiors reflect their rural setting. The 24 suites and villas are intimate hideaways, crafted for a soulful stay. Here, epicurean encounters in The Dining Room are defined by regionality: produce is locally sourced and hand-picked from the kitchen garden. On the golf course, arresting sea views and cliff-edge fairways shape challenging rounds. Whether sitting atop limestone cliffs with a sunrise picnic, taking a forest walk accompanied by birdsong or restoring at The Spa with a manuka honey treatment, life here moves at a slower pace.

Discover more: rosewoodhotels.com/cape-kidnappers

Connect with us: Facebook, Instagram @rosewoodcapekidnappers

About Rosewood Matakauri

On the shores of New Zealand’s Lake Wakatipu, framed by majestic alpine peaks, sits Rosewood Matakauri. The retreat is shaped by its cinematic setting; a reflection of contemporary Queenstown culture, rooted in the spirit of adventure. In the 13 rooms, suites and villas, open fireplaces, natural textures and a curated art collection with a bold, local point of view create a dialogue between indoors and out. The mountains and waters offer endless opportunities for exploration, from the exhilaration of heli-skiing on pristine slopes to the thrill of jet boating. The Dining Room is equally dynamic: an expression of local culinary identity, with flavours shaped by the seasons. When the time comes to restore, The Spa and the sleek outdoor pool invite guests into a sanctuary of stillness.

Discover more: rosewoodhotels.com/matakauri

Connect with us: Facebook, Instagram @rosewoodmatakauri

About Rosewood Kauri Cliffs

Tucked into the coastal landscape of Northland, New Zealand, Rosewood Kauri Cliffs is a retreat of refined seclusion. A stay here is an unparalleled connection to the land and a celebration of Māori heritage. Framed by 6,000 acres of native forest, farmland and pink-shelled shores, the 26 suites and villas are crafted for sensory calm. Dining celebrates the region’s abundance: local produce, native herbs and seafood infused with local flavour and flame. Guests are invited to connect with Māori tradition through guided walks, cultural artistry and stories of whakapapa woven into the landscape. The pristine golf course traverses ravines and subtropical valleys, returning to panoramas of the Pacific Ocean, while well-being slows to the rhythm of nature, with rituals drawing on the restorative spirit of woodland and water.

Discover more: rosewoodhotels.com/kauri-cliffs

Connect with us: Facebook, Instagram @RosewoodKauriCliffs

Media Contact

Jacqui Campbell

Cluster Marketing and Communications Manager