Delamore Lodge, Waiheke Island: Review

Waiheke Destination Overview

Just 50 minutes on the ferry from downtown Auckland, Waiheke Island is often regarded as one of New Zealand’s premier island escapes. Renowned for its world-class wineries, outstanding dining experiences, beautiful golden beaches, and dramatic coastal scenery, it offers a blend of relaxed charm and luxury sophistication. Whether visiting for a day trip or an extended retreat, its accessibility makes it a first choice getaway from the city. I visited in August, and while winter brought plenty of rain, it was a perfect time to assess accommodations that invite you to spend plenty of time indoors.

Arrival & First Impressions

Moments from the town of Oneroa on Waiheke Island sits the secluded Delamore Lodge. Turn into the private driveway to drink in the stunning view. We arrived at the reception which is more like a private greeting area, from where we were given a short tour of the luxury Lodge and we had no paperwork to fill out which was a welcome pleasure! All the team seemed happy to be there and I chatted with all of them about their personal stories. The team had a way of relating to us like they knew us already, not obsequious, just an authentic welcome.

The Owner’s Villa

We were fortunate enough to stay in the Owner’s Villa, where the original owner who set up the lodge 30 years ago once stayed. It has been heavily reconfigured and is modern in a relaxed way. I loved the way it brings the adobe cladding look of the main building with mild Spanish influences. I found much more than a hotel room here, we had a whole house, our own private gardens, and a striking northeast view.

The villa was generous in proportions. I spied a quality coffee machine with fresh beans in the grinder, a large table with seating for eight, and glassware to ensure a long night. I was impressed by the well-featured kitchen that gave me illusions of hosting a dinner party. In a beautiful location like this, we just wanted to sprawl out and enjoy the comfort and the view, and the extensive grounds of the villa made this easy. Speaking of comfort, the beds were luxurious. A pillow menu was available, though I was asleep before I got to choose.

Spa & Pampering

The hosts thought we would benefit from a massage and arranged two of their senior therapists to look after us. Given a choice of oils and fragrances, I settled in for a delicious 60 minutes of total pampering. A little self-indulgence was warranted after our gallivanting around the island over a couple of days, and taking an hour to be 100% present was just what was needed. I recommend this as the best way to start a stay.

Dining & Atmosphere

The curved main room turned from seating area to bar to restaurant based on guest needs and the time of day. This left me with the slightly strange feeling of not quite knowing what to expect when I arrived but any time I did, the team took care of everything. After our massage there were 5 o’clock drinks, offering delicious and tasty morsels. I had a specialty cocktails from the ever changing menu. Following drinks we took a seat with a stunning view out over the bay as the sun set and highlighted the delicious choices on the menu prepared each day. The kitchen drew on ingredients grown on site in their own gardens and orchards, supplemented by seafood caught in the surrounding waters of the gulf. The chef built the menu around what was harvested each day, keeping the dishes connected to the land and ocean right outside the dining room. There were three entrees, three mains and three desserts, a small selection but all appealing to me. Perhaps someone who had specific requirements might not find their desired choice listed but the food is bespoke, they can likely make anything as required as everything is prepared in a kitchen right there, tucked at the end of the main room. I thought the food was relaxed and unpretentious yet delicious, and had a unique twist that had me asking our waiter for some guidance, answers were always to hand.

Breakfast was delightful with coffee starting proceedings and to the menu. I opted for a full cooked breakfast while my friend enjoyed Eggs Benedict with salmon, all chosen from todays right sized menu offering a hand picked selection.

Grounds & Views

Other lodge buildings are set on a sprawling space down the hill, with gorgeous gardens that can keep you occupied for some time. As the lodge sleeps just 16 guests, it offers a very private setting, with a range of curated packages available for visitors who want it all laid on. The elevated location provides an unobstructed view out across many islands.

Services & Hospitality

Delamore is an oasis of calm on a calm island. If you get hungry, the food options are excellent, and the cocktail list is extensive. They can assist with whatever you need, from in-room catering and dinner parties to beach towels. They will even pick you up from the ferry, though we drove here and parked inside our own private locked gate.

Getting here

It is easy to get to Waiheke, either take the Fullers or Island Direct passenger services from central Auckland, or the SeaLink vehicle ferry if you bring a car for the flexibility to explore the wider island at your own pace. Sailings are flexible but book if you have a vehicle. Local wine tours are available (we did one through Fullers), book in advance in summer months. There are taxis, buses, and e-bikes, however they are somewhat limited. Delamore will collect you from the ferry if you don’t bring a car or helicopter.

Delamore is ideal for

Delamore Lodge on Waiheke Island suits those looking for relaxed luxury in an accessible private location. We only spent one night here but what it made me think of was booking the villa for a summer and having guests come and stay. And this would be a fabulous place for a wedding party, just the right number of beds so you could take the whole lodge.

Michelin Key Award

Shortly after our visit, Delamore Lodge was awarded two Michelin Keys in the Michelin Guide’s recognition of top luxury accommodations across New Zealand, acknowledging its exceptional standards of architecture, design, and service; something I have to agree with.

Final Verdict

The staff are fun yet relaxed, making for a very different environment from a city hotel. Nothing is a rush; at Delamore, it’s all about you. The word “oasis” might be a little overused, but in cases like this, it is entirely appropriate. Delamore deserves a generous visit.