'The Cottage' at River Birches Redefines Affordable Luxury

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. October 21, 2010

October 21, 2010 - While many upmarket New Zealand accommodation providers are either struggling during these uncertain times, or in some instances have their properties up for sale, one enterprising lodge owner has already begun redefining the industry. River Birches lodge owner, Jason Bleibtreu, has embarked on a bold, new development creating The Cottage at River Birches.

Building on the success of his Turangi based boutique lodge, The Cottage at River Birches now provides an outstanding luxury option conceived with families and smaller groups of travellers in mind who appreciate the privacy, spaciousness and independence of a high quality, architecturally designed home in a superb setting.

Jason saw a niche in the market a few years ago: "Often it's physically difficult to accommodate families or bigger groups in luxury accommodation. And it's usually more expensive. So we thought, Why not create a semi-self contained, three-bedroom cottage that meets the same standards as our lodge guest rooms? Our guests can therefore enjoy privacy but also tap into whatever level of service they need or desire."

Inside the cedar clad Cottage, stylish interior decor and contemporary features enhance a sense of warmth, comfort and understated sophistication. Immediately upon arrival, you will feel a sense of relaxation as the atmosphere soothes away the stresses of daily living.

Set amidst an idyllic garden environment and located only footsteps away from New Zealand's iconic Tongariro River, renowned for its famous trout fishing and river rafting, The Cottage at River Birches is also adjacent to Tongariro National Park with a myriad range of outdoor activities, such as hiking the famous Tongariro Crossing, or skiing on Mount Ruapehu, playing Turangi's nearby 18-hole golf course, or mountain biking through the park's rugged trails.

"Some of our guests are definitely into outdoor activities, whilst others just want seclusion and complete relaxation. The Cottage just gives our guests more choices and at the same time it still reflects what we are all about - genuine quality, attentive service and attention to detail, all at prices discerning travellers can afford," says Jason.

Guests have the option to create their own meals, eat out locally or access the specialised gourmet food service provided from the lodge such as Wagyu beef, a range of exceptional cheeses, organic salmon and top quality wines. By pre-arrangement dinner can be provided in the Cottage itself, prepared by the lodge's award-winning chef. Guests simply decide on the level of self-catering they would prefer.

The Cottage has been designed in harmony with, and to the same high standard as the adjoining River Birches Lodge, internationally acclaimed in Travel & Leisure Magazine's Best of 2007: The World's Greatest Hotels, Resorts and Spas. River Birches also features in Frommer's New Zealand Complete Guide book as one the country's best Boutique Hotels & Small Lodges.

With international and local accolades underpinning the success of River Birches, the Cottage is already touted as an attractive proposition for travellers in groups, families and those wanting a longer stay in high quality accommodation at a reasonable price.

An indication of growing confidence for the future was outlined earlier this year in a speech by the Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, John Key, when he was quoted as saying, "I'm impressed at what the tourism industry achieved against the backdrop of the economic recession. I acknowledge it was a tough year for some of you. You may have had to make hard decisions about how to position your business. But you can be proud of what you achieved." Whilst noting, "I want us to make the very most of our competitive advantages, and to seize the many opportunities they provide."

His words echo what Jason Bleibtreu believes is the future of luxury boutique lodges in New Zealand. To always be innovative and to offer what the travelling public perceive as great value for money, yet never compromising on quality and standards of service. The Cottage at River Birches is without doubt at the forefront of what guests expect when staying in a boutique lodge in this spectacular region of New Zealand.

The Cottage at River Birches is a truly perfect retreat to escape to alongside the magical waters of the Tongariro.

River Birches Spring/Summer Celebration Packages

Join us for a relaxing few days at The Cottage. Unwind with a welcoming bottle of New Zealand bubbles and enjoy the peace and tranquillity of The Cottage, lovely garden views and a beautifully appointed kitchen, luxurious king size beds. Stay three nights for the price of two, from NZ$820 for two guests,(in total for all three nights).

Stay at the Lodge and celebrate our acceptance of an exclusive 'invitation only' membership to join Lodges of New Zealand with a complimentary bottle of New Zealand bubbles. Relax in front of the crackling log fire or in our beautiful garden or stroll the banks of the Tongariro River. Enjoy the luxury of our beautiful rooms and blissful beds. Stay three nights for the price of two, from NZ$850 for two guests,(in total for all three nights).

Offers are available October and November 2010 and subject to availability.