Inside Kate Middleton and Prince William's Luxury New Zealand Retreat: See Pics of the Gorgeous Lodge and Grounds

Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, along with Prince George, will only reside at Wharekauhau Lodge temporarily before hunkering down at the Government House

By Peter Gicas Apr 09, 2014 3:17 AMTags
Wharekauhau Lodge, New Zealand, Prince William, Kate MiddletonPA PHOTOS /LANDOV

Prince William, Kate Middleton and Prince George got to briefly rest up before fully tackling their three-week tour of New Zealand and Australia.

The royal family was staying just outside Wellington at the Wharekauhau Lodge, a gorgeous Edwardian-style manor house that overlooks Palliser Bay.

Wharekauhau Lodge

However, their stay will be brief, as they were slotted to head to the Government House in Wellington on Wednesday, where they will reside for the remainder of their stay in New Zealand.

But while their time at the luxury retreat was to be short-lived—a way for the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and their little one to reportedly recover from jet lag—we couldn't help but want to learn more about a place that is obviously fit for a future king. (Make that two future kings!)

Wharekauhau Lodge

Set on a 5,500 acre property, the Wharekauhau Lodge boasts 15 cottages that are adorned with "clay tiles, pebble mosaics, plastered walls, rich New Zealand wool carpeting, cotton bed linen and hemp curtains," according to the establishment's website.

While that's certainly impressive, it definitely seems as if it is the outdoor grounds that really make the resort extra special.

Wharekauhau Lodge

In addition to a swimming pool, tennis court and secluded gardens, there's also a lush croquet lawn, an herb garden, orchard, vegetable garden and a lemon tree.

And there's definitely no shortage of activities offered, including horseback riding, clay target shooting, archery and wine tasting.

Yes, there's even a day spa.

Wharekauhau Lodge

Sure, William, Kate and George won't be there long enough to enjoy all these amenities, but they definitely have plenty of options if they decide they want to do something over the course of the next 24 hours.

The three of them touched down in Wellington on Sunday, where they were treated to a traditional Maori powhiri greeting ceremony on the Government House grounds followed by a 21-gun salute fired in their honor.

On Wednesday the family was scheduled to attend an official event for new parents and babies at Government House.

Wharekauhau Lodge