Wairarapa Luxury Lodge Featured in Golden Globes’ Exclusive Gift Bag

A luxury lodge from New Zealand has made its way into one of Hollywood’s most coveted awards ceremonies. The prestigious Golden Globes featured the Wharekauhau Country Estate in its exclusive swag bag, which was valued at nearly US$1 million (NZ$1.75 million) for the 83rd Golden Globes. This year’s gift bag included an array of high-end items, emphasizing luxury travel and unique experiences.

Among the 35 luxurious items in the swag bag were 21 tickets for stays at premium lodges across New Zealand. Notably, winners and presenters could enjoy a four-night stay at the five-star Wharekauhau Country Estate, valued at $14,450 per package. This experience includes a private dinner with a renowned winemaker, showcasing New Zealand’s rich culinary and viticultural offerings.

Increased Visibility for New Zealand Tourism

Richard Rooney, the general manager of Wharekauhau Country Estate, expressed excitement about the lodge’s inclusion. He noted that numerous global properties submitted entries to be part of this exclusive gift bag, but only the finest were selected. Rooney emphasized the global reputation of New Zealand’s luxury lodges, stating, “If South Africa has safari, New Zealand has luxury lodges. They truly reflect a sense of place and people.”

Spanning 3,000 acres, the estate serves as a working farm, offering guests various activities including ATV tours, hikes, and wine tastings in the nearby Martinborough region. Rooney hopes that high-profile visitors will appreciate the beauty of New Zealand and consider returning for more exploration.

Farm manager Bradley Riggs described his usual routine as unchanged despite the presence of high-profile guests, stating, “I just do my farm tour the same way I always would.” Riggs acknowledged that while celebrities might attract security, the essence of the farm remains intact. Wharekauhau has a history of hosting royalty and celebrities and was awarded two Michelin Keys last year, solidifying its status among the world’s top hotels.

Luxurious Offerings and Experiences

The Golden Globes swag bag also includes a six-night itinerary in New Zealand valued at $31,307, allowing winners to stay at three exclusive properties: Flockhill in Canterbury, ROKI in Queenstown, and Minaret in Wanaka. This arrangement is on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning notable winners like Timothée Chalamet and Jean Smart could take advantage of these offerings.

The gift bag has been described as the “World’s Most Luxurious Gift Bag,” featuring an impressive array of luxury travel and accommodation options across the globe. Recipients can enjoy stays at high-end resorts and lodges in destinations such as Mexico, Austria, and Bali, as well as unique experiences like a test drive at The Concours Club and access to the 2026 FIA World Endurance Championship.

In addition to travel experiences, the swag bag includes high-end beauty products, such as Brad Pitt’s skincare line and exclusive wines, cigars, and spirits, with some items valued at over $210,000. The inclusion of New Zealand’s luxury offerings in such a prestigious event underscores the nation’s growing profile in global tourism and hospitality.

Overall, the appearance of Wharekauhau Country Estate in the Golden Globes swag bag serves as a significant endorsement for New Zealand’s luxury tourism sector, inviting the world to discover its exceptional landscapes, warm hospitality, and unique experiences.