Britain’s Prince William and Duchess Catherine got over their jet lag at a £480-per-night cottage.
The couple and their eight-month-old son Prince George – who arrived into New Zealand on Monday (07.04.14) for a three-week tour of Australasia – spent yesterday (08.04.14) relaxing at the property in the grounds of Edwardian country house Wharekauhau Lodge in Palliser Bay, a 90-minute drive away from the capital Wellington.
They were joined by a group of their closest staff, and took in total three of the 13 cottages on the working sheep and cattle farm, as well as a number of rooms elsewhere in the luxury resort.
The royal couple’s cottage boasted a super king size four-poster bed, heated marble floors and a double spa bath.
However, the bad weather meant it was likely they experienced many of the outdoor attractions on the estate including a croquet lawn and petanque field, and a tour of the sheep farm, though they did get to enjoy the use of a swimming pool, spa and gymnasium.
The £12 million resort, which is owned by American billionaire William Foley, has previously hosted stars including Tom Cruise, Nicole Kidman, Meg Ryan, and Jack Black.
A Kensington Palace spokesman said: "The Duke and Duchess and Prince George are currently staying at a private location at the recommendation of the New Zealand Government, who have secured the accommodation at a substantially reduced rate.
"For the rest of the tour of New Zealand, except for one night, the Duke and Duchess will stay at Government House in Wellington at the invitation of the Governor General."
Prince William’s cottage retreat
