Updated October 2026: Rosewood Hotels & Resorts took over management on 1 December 2023 and the lodge now trades as Rosewood Matakauri, billed as the smallest Rosewood in the world, with the Robertson family still the owners. It was upgraded from One to Two MICHELIN Keys in the 2026 New Zealand selection.
Rosewood Matakauri at a glance
Location: Lake Wakatipu, near Queenstown, New Zealand | Price: $$$$ | Best for: Couples, adventure seekers, lake and mountain views
Rooms: 13 rooms and suites, plus a four-bedroom villa | Rates: From about NZ$1,620 a night (varies by season) | Best time to go: Year-round; summer for hiking and the lake, winter for skiing
Why we love it: Billed as the smallest Rosewood in the world, this intimate lakeside lodge pairs log fires and mountain views with Two Michelin Keys. It’s the most polished base for Queenstown adventures.
Good to know: Rates include an à la carte breakfast and a five-course dinner, with minibar treats replenished daily. It’s about 20 minutes from Queenstown Airport on a private road.
Insider detail: The Owner’s Cottage has a private hot tub on its deck, baths looking over Lake Wakatipu and the option of an in-room chef.
My stay at Rosewood Matakauri
When I think of New Zealand’s South Island in winter, I first think of all the activities. Yet, pretty soon thereafter I’m thinking about how to keep warm! If cozy log fires, hot cocoa in a private hot tub and incredible views of the mountain ranges sound like your cup of tea, then there’s nowhere better in New Zealand to enjoy winter than Matakauri Lodge.
Just a short drive from the winter wonderland of Queenstown, Matakauri Lodge is the perfect combination for a luxe getaway, as a way to unwind after some time on the slopes nearby. Although only a ten minute drive out of town, this lodge nestled at the foot of Lake Wakatipu feels a world away.
The Owner’s Cottage at Matakauri Lodge
After first visiting the lodge a few years ago, I was quick to tell anyone who would listen about how incredible my experience was at one of the most established luxury lodges the world over. From the friendly welcome upon the opening of my car door to the presumably never-ending supply of homemade brownies in the room, I was sure there was no better place in the world to spend a few days unwinding, often with a glass of merlot by the wood fire.
This year I returned to Matakauri Lodge to experience the Owner’s Cottage, a multi-bedroom oasis that will leave you wondering if life really does get any better (hint: it probably does not).
With the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge reported as recent guests, the Owner’s Cottage truly is a royal experience like no other. In-room highlights include a private hot tub on the large (and completely private) deck, bathtubs with a view over lake Wakatipu and even an in-room chef should you prefer to dine in the privacy of your cottage (which to be honest, feels as if it should be more appropriately described as a mansion!)
An All-Inclusive Retreat: What you’ll enjoy
As an all-inclusive retreat, Matakauri Lodge will stop at nothing to make sure each guest has everything they need to enjoy the quiet oasis of the lodge. Room rates include an a la carte breakfast menu with a buffet of fresh fruits and yoghurts and a five-course dinner. There is a range of mini bar treats to enjoy and these are replenished daily. You will also find a large library of books and films to enjoy should the weather prompt you to excuse yourself for a day in.
Outside of the lodge, there’s an endless supply of day walks, ski resorts and small towns to enjoy, so be sure to allow plenty of time to venture beyond the lodge during the day.
Read more: Visiting Cloudy Bay in New Zealand’s Wine Region
A very warm thank you to Matauri Lodge for their hospitality and the surprise upgrade on arrival! All opinions are and photos are my own and this is one getaway I will never forget!
Rosewood Matakauri: frequently asked questions
Is Matakauri Lodge now a Rosewood?
Yes. Since December 2023 it has been managed by Rosewood Hotels & Resorts as Rosewood Matakauri; the Robertson family remains the owner.
How far is Rosewood Matakauri from Queenstown?
It is about a 20-minute drive from Queenstown Airport, on a private road above Lake Wakatipu.
What facilities does Rosewood Matakauri have?
There is a two-room spa, fitness centre, outdoor pool, hot tub and a standalone glass-fronted sauna.
More luxury hotel reviews
Brooke is a Tasmanian-born writer and professional baker who started World of Wanderlust in 2013 and has since travelled to 86 countries. These days her guides focus on what she knows best: the bakeries, hotels and places worth crossing the world for.
