1/5

Rosewood Kauri Cliffs

Matauri Bay • Kauri Cliffs • OVER THE TOP

avg. $1,586 / night

Includes $83 / night in cash back

Cash back is redeemable via Virtual Visa, Venmo, or bank transfer starting 24-48 hours after check-out

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Cash back

5% cash back on all completed stays (redeemable via Virtual Visa, Venmo, or bank transfer starting 24-48 hours after check-out)

Credit card points

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Hotel loyalty points

Points accrual and status eligibility with major hotel loyalty programs: Marriott Bonvoy, Hilton Honors, World of Hyatt, and others

Free breakfast

Breakfast-included rate options available

Room upgrades

Complimentary room upgrades (subject to property availability)

Extend your stay

Early check-in and late check-out (subject to property availability)

Location

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PB hotel design editorial

Perched above Matauri Bay on the Northland coast of New Zealand, where rolling farmland drops toward the Cavalli Islands and the Tasman Sea, the property that became Rosewood Kauri Cliffs was developed by American businessman Julian Robertson on 6,000 acres of former sheep station. The lodge opened in 2000, its architecture drawing on the New Zealand homestead vernacular — timber-clad pavilions with steeply pitched metal roofs, wraparound verandahs edged in white-painted balustrades, and a massing that keeps everything low and domestic against the wide Pacific horizon. Mature pohutukawa trees anchor the grounds, and the flagstone pool terrace, visible in the images, resolves into an organic kidney form that follows the land's contour rather than imposing geometry on it. Inside, the interiors move between two registers across the property's 25 suites and cottages. The main lodge dining room carries a more traditional colonial warmth — coffered ceilings, a carved limestone fireplace, wrought-iron chandelier, and tartan-cushioned Regency chairs arranged around white-draped tables — while the newer cottage accommodations shift toward a quieter coastal palette of sage green walls, wide-plank oak floors, and loosely woven jute rugs. Both approaches share the same restraint: upholstered headboards in natural linen, rattan accent chairs, framed New Zealand printmaking on tongue-and-groove panelled walls. The effect across all of it is less resort than a very well-appointed country house that happens to look out over one of the more arresting stretches of the South Pacific.

Travel notes

30min drive from Kerikeri Airport (KKE)

About

Discover the spectacular untouched coastline of Northland, with its panoramic views across the Pacific Ocean, nearby islands and stunning private beaches from the luxury coastal resort. High cliffs and rolling farmland are complemented by the award-winning manicured greens of the championship golf course, promising an unforgettable stay in one of the world's most breathtaking destinations.

Amenities

Pool

Restaurant

Internet

Free Parking

Free Wifi

Fitness center

Wheelchair Access

Suites

Bar/Lounge

Spa

Rosewood Kauri Cliffs Reviews

322 reviews

"What an outstanding property and team of people. The welcome was amazing, the service incredibly professional and friendly and the lodge and villas are beautiful. While we are not golfers and this is primarily a golf resort, the whole experience including the lunch, dinner and breakfast was truly stunning."

A Tripadvisor traveler review

Nov 25, 2025

"What an utterly incredible place. The golf course is stunning with views over the ocean and the Cavalli islands. The hotel was a quiet piece of understated luxury. The staff were wonderfully helpful. The whole estate just made us want to stay longer (we added an extra night to our stay). We are looking forward to returning next year"

A Tripadvisor traveler review

Nov 23, 2025

"Not what it used to be before Rosewood took over the management. Having stayed at Kauri Cliffs many times over many years and always looking forward to it so much, no more for us unless it gets back to what it used to be. Magnificent golf course and wonderful lodge ambiance but: Food not good at all and we didn’t look forward to any meals during our 4 day stay. Food used to be a highlight. Staff were mainly over zealous young backpackers on tourist visas with little or no upmarket hospitality experience. Obsequious and well intentioned but service was at times embarrassing and to be expected from a trainee, not a professional. As for the rooms, not even a cookie was provided like they used to. Are they trying to save costs? How much is a cookie? All in all so disappointing and certainly not what you would expect at more than $NZ 4,700 per night! Finally it was carts to path on the golf course which at $NZ 1,000 per round for 2 made the golf course a struggle and a lot less enjoyable for our 2 days of golf. This was not necessary and spoiled our golf experience. Should have at least been offered a reduced golf fee. Is it a coincidence that all this has happened after Rosewood has taken over the management? We would love to return but not until all of the above has been resolved and the previous high standards of food and service have been restored."

A Tripadvisor traveler review

Oct 13, 2025

"Our stay at the property was truly enchanting, beginning with its breathtaking natural beauty. The meticulously manicured lawns perfectly framed the panoramic vista from the main building, offering an unparalleled, serene outlook over the ocean. Gazing upon the endless horizon from this vantage point was an incredibly calming and restorative experience, setting a tranquil tone for our entire visit. The warm welcome we received from the moment of our arrival set a high standard for our stay. The front desk team, notably Mitchell and Mariel, consistently provided impeccable service, handling every inquiry with professionalism and a genuine desire to assist. A particularly helpful team member (Asian lady), whose name I regrettably didn't catch, was often the cheerful voice answering calls and providing invaluable assistance. Michael from guest services further exemplified this commitment to excellence, demonstrating remarkable attentiveness and efficiency during our check-in process. The restaurant operations were a marvel of efficiency and guest-centric service. Under the exceptional leadership of Marina, truly the backbone of the establishment, the entire team operated with the precision of a well-oiled machine. Her ability to navigate daily pressures with unwavering grace and a radiant smile was truly inspiring. Supported by a dedicated crew including Jeremiah, Nicholas, Mike, Zack, and Ashish, the dining area consistently offered a pampering and enjoyable atmosphere for all patrons. A true standout amongst the staff was Ashish, who serves not only as a manager but also as Kauri Cliffs’ distinguished in-house Sommelier. His dedication to guest comfort was evident in his hands-on approach; he was often seen assisting his team with the same diligence as a server, demonstrating a remarkable commitment to operational excellence. Ashish’s profound knowledge of wines, coupled with his unparalleled ability to recommend the perfect pairing for each dish, underscored his reputation as one of New Zealand’s top Sommeliers. Learning about his journey from humble beginnings to such an esteemed position was genuinely captivating, revealing a truly remarkable and wonderful individual who is undoubtedly a tremendous asset to the hotel. Our experience was further enriched by the thoughtful assistance of Arjun, who ensured all guests felt thoroughly settled and well-informed. He went above and beyond to highlight the property's unique offerings, particularly emphasizing the exclusive access to the breathtaking private Pink Beach – a truly unmissable highlight. We are especially grateful to Arjun for arranging and to Neil for kindly driving us to this spectacular secluded spot, making that particular excursion an unforgettable part of our trip. Both gentlemen were incredibly helpful and exemplified the property's dedication to personalized guest experiences. While the service and ambiance in the restaurant were exemplary, it is with regret that I must note a significant area for improvement concerning the culinary offerings. The food, unfortunately, consistently fell short of the high standards set by the rest of the property. It often lacked distinct taste and luster, presenting as rather mediocre. Given the property's somewhat isolated location, limiting dining alternatives without a drive to a nearby town, enhancing the quality and appeal of the restaurant's menu becomes even more critical. There is immense potential for the dining experience to match the impeccable service, but it currently represents a notable disparity. Despite a few minor operational hiccups, which we conveyed as constructive feedback, these instances provided an invaluable opportunity to meet the property's truly exceptional leader, Mr. Fraser Wong. His benevolent and compassionate leadership is profoundly evident in the positive morale and dedication of his entire team; every staff member spoke of him with genuine admiration. Mr. Wong radiates kindness, humility, and a deep sense of compassion, making him not just an outstanding leader but a truly wonderful human being. My husband and I were genuinely captivated by his presence and felt truly blessed to have met him. His profound kindness and empathetic approach, which seem to supersede even his impressive leadership qualities, rendered our experience at Kauri Cliffs truly memorable. He left an indelible impression upon us, and we extend our deepest gratitude for his remarkable presence and for being the inspiring individual he is. Namaste, Fraser!"

A Tripadvisor traveler review

Oct 05, 2025

"I cannot fault the property in anyway. From the moment you arrive through the properties doors nothing is too much for Fraser and his team at Kauri Cliffs. The food was exceptional, great quality ingredient’s, prepared and served to a fantastic standard. There was some bemusement from staff that I did not drink alcohol but they were very accommodating and made a non alcoholic cocktail for me before dinner. The infinity pool has great views and the golf course itself is flawless. I cannot recommend Kauri Cliffs enough, it really is an exceptional property."

A Tripadvisor traveler review

May 05, 2025

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