We stayed here for two nights.

First, Napier. The town is full of stunning Art Deco buildings and a walking tour is well worth a couple of hours (and an easy walk from the Masters' Lodge). Cape Kidnappers and its Gannet colony are a lot of fun. The golf course at Kidnappers is very scenic, very expensive and very, very difficult. Unless you are a low handicap player, take lots of extra balls (or take the time in the early holes to find other peoples' lost balls).

As for the lodge- it is wonderful. The building has been lovingly and meticulously restored and the art deco material is complemented by the owners' tasteful art collection. The rooms are large and very comfortable. The meals are wonderful- we ate there in the evenings as well as at breakfast. All the meals (and wines) were of an excellent standard. There is also guest access to the well equipped local gym.

Larry and Joan are wonderful hosts. They made excellent suggestions and looked after our reservations for golf and gannets. They also plied us with drinks, cakes and nibbles just when we wanted them. We'd find it difficult to believe there is better lodging in the area.

My husband and I toured both the North and South islands of New Zealand on our honeymoon in May. We stayed at many nice places, including Matakauri Lodge, Riverrun, etc. But our favoite stay was at the Master's Lodge. Joan is possibly the warmest host I've ever encountered. We instantly felt at ease when we were greeted with beer, wine, and delicious snacks. Breakfast the next morning was amazing. Joan introduced us to local New Zealand fuits, the best yogurt I've ever had, eggs, toast, coffee, cheese...... It was awesome! Oh, they also have a really cool guest book.

This is one of the best hotels in New Zealand. Situated on Napier hill, looking out towards Cape Kidnappers and the Pacific Ocean.

Napier is located on the East Coast of New Zealand's North Island. In 1931 Napier experienced a large earthquake which destroyed most of the city. As a result, Napier was rebuilt in the architectural style of the era - art deco. The city is a great place to stay, with gorgeous sunny weather, great wineries and food, with many grower's markets held selling produce, preserves, olive oil, chocolates, organic meats and the like.

The Master's Lodge is run by Joan and Larry Blume, New York professionals who on a visit decided to stay for good. They have taken over Baron Husheer's house, with elegant stained glass windows, and moved their collection of art nouveau and deco furniture to complement the house.

The service and hospitality are as good as it gets. They are more than happy to make any arrangements to the requirements of their guests, including visits to wineries and meeting one of Hawkes Bay's top wine makers.

It isn't cheap by New Zealand standards, but worth every penny if you want the best.