Matakauri
Alpine lakeside lodge with light-filled contemporary interiors by designer Virginia Fisher. Warm earthy tones, open fireplaces, rustic pine floors, and floor-to-ceiling windows frame Lake Wakatipu at every turn. Intimate and quiet — this is not a resort that buzzes. The main lodge has a Scandinavian-chic feel: brushed rust Corten steel fireplace, plush sofas, a cosy library upstairs with a games table and fireplace.
Request in-room spa treatments for complete privacy — 20% surcharge applies but worth it for villa guests
Why It Matters
One of New Zealand's most celebrated luxury lodges. Formerly a Robertson Lodges property (Matakauri Lodge), rebranded under Rosewood in December 2023. The view across Lake Wakatipu to three mountain ranges is genuinely extraordinary. The small scale — a handful of suites and villas — means service is personal to the point of feeling like a private house. Interior design by Virginia Fisher is widely praised for its contemporary New Zealand character.
Rosewood Matakauri sits directly on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, seven minutes from central Queenstown, with unobstructed views across the water to The Remarkables, Cecil, and Walter Peak. Small by design — just suites and villas — the staff-to-guest ratio feels almost absurd in the best way. Formerly Matakauri Lodge (rebranded Rosewood in December 2023), the property has been a benchmark for South Island luxury since it opened in 2010, with Virginia Fisher's contemporary interiors letting the landscape do most of the work.
Where You'll Stay
4 room types available
Grand Lake View Suite
A step up in scale and drama. The bedroom sits on a secluded mezzanine floor, giving the suite a residential feel rather than a hotel feel. Spectacular mountain vistas visible from the bathroom and the oversized bath. Contemporary interiors with open fireplace, large private balcony, and full lake panorama.
85 sqmLake View Suite
The entry-level suite at Matakauri, and it's still a genuine luxury retreat. Located on the water's edge with private balconies framing Lake Wakatipu. Open fireplace with hearthside seating, large soaking bathtub, twin vanities, and a walk-in wardrobe. Designed to capture the full drama of the mountain panorama from bed, bath, and balcony.
65 sqmLake View Two Bedroom Villa
A proper private hideaway for up to four guests. Both bedrooms are ensuite, each with its own open fireplace and private balcony. A large lounge area sits between them. A jacuzzi with panoramic views, fully equipped kitchen, and guest powder room make this genuinely self-contained. The Two Bedroom Villa is a favourite for couples travelling together or small families wanting space.
250 sqm
Matakauri Four Bedroom Villa
The flagship residence. Four spacious bedrooms, each with a private balcony and lake and mountain views. Accommodates up to eight guests. The living and dining areas open onto a large private deck overlooking The Remarkables. An infinity-edge jacuzzi sits on the deck. Fully equipped kitchen for a private chef (arrange through concierge), sheltered courtyard for barbecues, and a private jetty.
405 sqmThe Property
Eat & Drink
3 venues on property
Restaurant
Spa & Wellness
Treatment Menu
On Property
How you'll actually spend your days.
The original 43m Kawarau Bridge bungy jump, the world's highest cliff jump at 109m, jet boating, and sky diving. The concierge arranges everything. Not for the faint-hearted.
Helicopter transfer to Milford Sound, soaring above dramatic fiords, rainforests, and waterfalls with the chance to spot native wildlife. A bucket-list excursion arranged through the concierge.
Talented working artists are invited to the lodge to draw inspiration from the Queenstown landscape. Guests can interact with artists and view work in progress in the Upper Lounge. An ongoing cultural program unique to this property.
Outdoor dinner on the Remarkables Terrace under the southern night sky. A secluded setting that combines the property's fine dining with the open alpine sky above.
A handcrafted picnic hamper with local food and wine, delivered to the property's private jetty on Lake Wakatipu. The views of the mountains reflecting in the still lake water make this a signature experience. Enquire through the concierge.
Bespoke itinerary through one of New Zealand's most spectacular wine regions, where vineyards sit between dramatic schist mountain ranges and the steep Kawarau River gorge. The region's Pinot Noirs are standouts. Arranged via concierge in partnership with Black NZ.
Led by a local astrophysicist and qualified astro-tourism guide, guests step outside to explore the Southern Hemisphere's night sky. New Zealand's dark skies mean the Milky Way core is visible on clear nights. Seasonal. One of the most talked-about on-property experiences.
Access to pristine backcountry terrain and untouched powder via helicopter. The lodge's dedicated ski concierge makes the logistics seamless. Best from June through September.
Four ski areas accessible from the lodge, including The Remarkables and Coronet Peak. Dedicated ski concierge creates bespoke arrangements. Both areas offer a range of terrains for all abilities. Winter season only (June–September).
A cruise on Lake Wakatipu aboard the century-old TSS Earnslaw steamship — a Queenstown icon. Arranged through the concierge.
Numerous walking tracks around the property and wider Queenstown area — from the peaceful native bush of the Mt Crichton Loop Track to the alpine air at Lake Alta. The concierge recommends routes to suit all fitness levels.
Amenities & Practical Info
The details that matter for planning.
A thoughtfully curated collection of contemporary New Zealand art throughout the lodge. Includes a significant Picasso tapestry in the Upper Lounge. Gallery tours available.
Full in-room dining service available for all accommodation types. Private chef service available for villa guests by arrangement.
In-room minibar stocked with domestic beers complimentary; wines and spirits charged separately.
A private jetty on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, a short stroll from the lodge. Used for gourmet picnics, swimming, and watching the sun set over the mountains.
Private luxury transfers to and from Queenstown International Airport arranged through the concierge. Fee applies.
High-speed wireless internet throughout the property.
Seasoned local staff with expert knowledge of Queenstown and the wider South Island. They arrange helicopter flights, ski concierge, restaurant bookings, transfers, and bespoke itineraries.
Day guests are welcome to book a full-day wellness pass combining a 60-minute signature spa treatment, gourmet three-course lunch, and full use of pool and wellness facilities.
Traditional cedar sauna adjacent to the pool area, with views to the mountains.
Two contrast plunge pools for thermotherapy. Moving between heated and cold pools is described by the property as a sensory journey that restores energy.
Fully equipped fitness centre with free weights, exercise machines, and cardio equipment. Yoga, Pilates, and personal training available by appointment.
Newly renovated heated pool overlooking Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding mountain ranges. Contemporary design with native plantings surrounding a spacious deck for lounging. One of the standout features of the wellness facilities.
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Rooms, dining, spa, and resort experiences — organized into one trip plan.
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