Been tasked with planning your company’s executive away day?
Offsite locations provide a neutral territory, free from distraction, allowing participants to not only focus on strategy and vision but also foster connections and strengthen organisational culture.
We are fortunate in Tāmaki Makaurau to have a stunning mix of venues available, not just in the centre, but in every corner of our city.
Read on below for some inspiration – or reach out to the ACB team to help you curate a bespoke itinerary that will impress.
CENTRAL CITY
Bringing together international luxury, and the warmest Kiwi hospitality, Cocoon House in Freemans Bay is a private retreat wrapped in beautiful art and spectacular treasures. With three floors of versatile and stunningly decorated spaces, Cocoon House offers both flexibility and exclusivity.
Boardroom Tu, named after Tūmatauenga, the Māori god of war, hunting, and food cultivation, comfortably accommodates 8 guests; or up to 18 guests can meet around the dining room’s giant swamp Kauri table.
Time for some bonding? Blow out the cobwebs on the back of a Harley Davidson motorcycle or take to the helm of an America’s Cup Yacht.
Round off the day feasting on a curated menu by Des Harris, widely regarded as one of New Zealand’s most prominent chefs, followed by a nightcap in the Cocoon bar – a lavish and intimate space, serving exotic whiskey and the finest wines. Then take a 5-minute downhill stroll to Swiss-Belsuites Victoria Park, an all-suite hotel offering spacious luxury apartments with state-of-the-art amenities.
WAIHEKE ISLAND
Leave the city behind on a 35-minute ferry ride, luxury charter – or 5-minute helicopter trip, to the jewel of the Hauraki Gulf. Boasting stunning venues, pristine beaches, world-class wines, and fantastic cuisine there is truly something for everyone on Waiheke Island.
Moulded into the hillside, the luxurious Delamore Lodge offers commanding views overlooking Owhanake Bay with superior facilities, first-class service, and delicious dining. Offering four Luxury Suites, two 2-bedroom apartments, gourmet dining, spa facilities, and extensive gardens; Delamore is all about discrete luxury and a bespoke experience. The purpose-built Wharenui Pavilion is the ideal venue for meetings and presentations for groups from 6 up to 60 and is well equipped for all meeting needs.
Waiheke isn’t all about wine, but with more than 30 boutique vineyards to choose from, why not indulge in an afternoon of wine tasting. The expert Cellar team at Mudbrick Vineyard & Restaurant offers several options for wine tastings and vineyard tours, giving you a real insight into the Waiheke Island wine region. Enjoy a rustic but refined meal at Tantalus in their private dining room seating 20 guests or head downstairs for a craft beer in their ‘secret space’, the moody and secretive Alibi Brewers’ Lounge, reminiscent of a speakeasy from the Prohibition era.
For an active afternoon, soar through the treetops by zipline, or for the more competitive, Destination Waiheke Island operates “The Great Escape” and can custom design a bespoke round island challenge for your colleagues.
NORTH
Cross the Harbour Bridge and head North to discover artisan food and wine, pristine beaches, and a thriving art scene. Woodhouse Mountain Lodge sits on over 100 acres of outstanding natural landscape, at the heart of the Matakana Coast. 18 contemporary villas are located close to on-site facilities, the perfect mix of seclusion and convenience. The main lodge has two conference areas that open out onto a large sunny courtyard and can accommodate up to 60 guests.
Dining at Woodhouse Mountain Lodge is an experience to cherish. They have extensive indoor and outdoor dining options available, from intimate dining to large seating in the patio area, with an outdoor fireplace and views across the lodge grounds.
After the hard work is done, relax and enjoy the onsite facilities or head to Mahurangi Harbour and learn how to shuck oysters straight from the sea, washed down with a glass of champagne or a cold beer before stopping in at Brick Bay for a stroll around the sculpture trail before a leisurely dinner in the Glass House.
SOUTHEAST
Clevedon village and the surrounding coast and country make up an authentic piece of rural New Zealand. A popular ‘Sunday drive’ destination, under an hour from the city centre, your colleagues will feel a world away. Nestled on a private beach The McCallum Residence® is an elegant step back in time. Arrive in style by helicopter where you will be met by a Butler that will attend to guests' every need. This grand manor has nine luxury suites, each with its own ensuite. The inspiring Boat House event space venue is located on the front lawn overlooking the water and Waiheke Island.
Nearby Kauri Bay Boomrock is the ultimate experience and activity venue – clay bird shooting, digger challenge and axe throwing to a 4wd experience, or whiskey tasting, they offer something for everyone. Swap war stories over a sumptuous seasonal menu prepared by resident Head Chef, Jeroen van Bilsen or return to The McCallum Residence® for a spectacular Kiwi Beach BBQ unlike any you’ve ever experienced.
WEST
Overlooking the windswept rugged coast of Muriwai, just 35 minutes from Auckland, you’ll find the awe-inspiring Parihoa Farm. With unrestricted privacy in all directions, Parihoa Farm feels like a place of total escape. Luxurious and contemporary meeting spaces frame spectacular views of the Tasman Sea, farmland, and West Coast sunsets. The crown jewel is the four-bedroom Chapman House, an uber-modern 641 square metre masterpiece designed by Andrew Patterson. The neighbouring 5-bedroom Gatehouse is a sunny and peaceful space surrounded by lush gardens, with expansive views of the ocean and Muriwai Beach.
Muriwai Golf Club’s 18-hole championship golf course is a 12-minute drive away and offers multiple practice areas and a club lounge. Or after admiring the sea views from Parihoa Farm, why not head to the beach for a surf lesson – or have a go at Blokart.
For budding masterchefs, Chef Mike Van de Elzen’s Good from Scratch school offers farm to plate cooking classes – giving guests an opportunity to relax, engage and get to know one another. If cooking isn’t of interest, then The Hunting Lodge is a short drive away. Before dinner sip through a blind tasting or, as HRH Charles and HRH Camilla did on their visit – blend their own wine.
Whatever kind of business event you’re planning, the team at Auckland Convention Bureau are here to help. Contact us today - email [email protected] or call (09) 365 0635