Prince William and Kate Middleton have arrived in New Zealand at the start of their three week tour of New Zealand and Australia - but for their first night in the southern hemisphere, the pair did not stay at Government House, home to New Zealand’s Governor General Sir Jerry Mateparae.
Instead, the couple and their nearly nine-month-old son Prince George recovered from jet lag at Wharekauhau Lodge in Palliser, a £480-a-night cottage which is situated an hour and a half from Wellington.
The five star resort comprises of 13 cottages and the royals have reportedly taken three for themselves and their staff, including Prince George’s nanny, Maria Borrallo.
Set amongst 5,500 acres of a working sheep and cattle farm, the resort sits at the southern end of New Zealand’s North Island, and the cottages comes equipped with four-poster beds and heated marble floors.
The resort’s website boasts of cottage suites, saying: "Whilst taking in the dramatic vistas, you are able to relax in absolute bliss and forget the outside world. Be at one with nature amongst the sheep that dot the pastures and enjoy deep sofas, fluffy pillows, heated marbled floors, and homemade cookies are just a few of the luxuries that are associated with our 13 Cottage Suites."
As for the adventures the Cambridge’s could undertake if they had the time, the site confirms: "With 5,500 acres of private land including ancient forests, peaceful lakes, rivers, and a wild and rugged coast, our guests are spoilt for choice when it comes to a route for walking, mountain biking, horse riding or ATV quad bike adventures."
A Kensington Palace spokesperson refused to comment on the Cambridge’s first night accommodation.
The luxurious Edwardian house is owned by America billionaire William Foley and previous guests have included Meg Ryan, Nicole Kidman and Bill Gates.
