This is, hands down, one of the most beautiful places I have ever been. And I have been to Hawaii, Palau, and stunning islands all around the world. But there is something infinitely special about Waiheke Island, New Zealand.

Especially during the spring shoulder season, when the island hasn’t fully come alive yet. The magic of the island was palpable the second I stepped off the ferry. The crisp ocean air, the rolling vineyards, and the quiet hum of nature immediately put me at ease.

But if this island is magic, then Delamore Lodge is something truly transformative.

I arrived on Waiheke feeling exhausted, but Delamore Lodge made the transition effortless. They picked me up from the ferry, gave me a warm welcome, and toured me around the stunning property before I settled into my room. The setting was breathtaking—perched on a clifftop overlooking the ocean, with infinity pools, lush gardens, and an intimate, exclusive atmosphere that made me feel like I had stepped into a dream.

After unpacking, I joined a small group of fellow guests for cocktail hour, soaking in the view as the sun started to dip below the horizon. Then, as if the universe knew exactly what I needed, the hotel staff offered to pick up takeout from a local Thai spot, and I spent the evening indulging in pad Thai and a bottle of New Zealand wine, completely unwinding in the comfort of my gorgeous, ocean view suite.

This was what I woke up to the next morning.

A sky painted in soft pastels, the ocean stretching endlessly beyond the infinity pool, and the only sound being the gentle rustling of the trees. This place is MAGIC. I keep finding myself just staring at this view, trying to capture it like a photograph and commit it to memory.

After a slow morning of taking it all in, I set off on a big hike to explore more of Waiheke. The trails wound through coastal cliffs and secluded beaches. Every turn revealed a new postcard-perfect scene. By the time I returned, I was ready for an indulgent evening—and Delamore delivered with an unforgettable five-course dinner. Every dish was beautifully prepared, featuring fresh local ingredients and exquisite flavors. I went to bed full, happy, and already dreaming of my next day here.

The next day was all about recovery and relaxation. I enjoyed a leisurely breakfast at the lodge, soaking in the morning sunshine and sipping coffee while watching the waves roll in. With no agenda, I wandered the nearby walking trails, meandered through town for some shopping, and had a casual lunch at a café.

I had been moving nonstop throughout my trip, so having a day to simply enjoy the rhythm of the island was exactly what I needed. Waiheke, even in its quiet moments, is captivating.

I spent my final day on the island determined to tackle a longer coastal loop hike. Now that I had a better lay of the land, I was confident in my route—but my navigation skills had other plans.

I set out at 7:30 AM, expecting the loop to take about 90 minutes, but I had grossly underestimated the time it would take, especially after struggling (once again) to find the right starting point. The hike was absolutely stunning, though. Somehow, today was even more beautiful than yesterday. It feels like New Zealand is begging me not to leave, blessing me with perfect weather in these final days.

Realizing I wasn’t going to complete the full loop in time, I turned back and raced to the lodge. By the time I arrived, I was drenched in sweat, my heart pounding. My muscles were already sore from yesterday, and I could tell I’d be feeling this hike tomorrow. But any discomfort faded as I sat down to the most beautiful breakfast spread on the patio, overlooking the endless blue horizon.

After breakfast, I packed up and made my way to Man O’ War, Waiheke’s most prominent winery. This spot is famous for its oceanfront tasting room—the only one of its kind in New Zealand. The wines were exquisite, the lunch was fantastic, and I savored every moment of my last afternoon on the island.

I stretched my time on Waiheke as long as I could, but eventually, I had to face reality: it was time to head back to Auckland.

The island has a way of slowing time. It makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a different world—one where the air is fresher, the ocean feels closer, and life is meant to be savored.

As I packed my bags and prepared for the long journey home, I already knew one thing for certain: I will be back. Waiheke and Delamore Lodge have left an imprint on my heart, and there’s no doubt in my mind that I’ll return to relive the magic again.