Wharenikau is a most extraordinary bed & breakfast because it is so much more than that. Surrounded by literally dozens of vineyards in the Hawkes Bay region of New Zealand's North Island, the site is gorgeous and the hosts, John and Anne Porter make visitors feel like old friends staying as guests. Their operation is unique in that the price includes not only very comfortable sleeping quarters (and bathroom), a real breakfast, and a nearly 360 degree view -- it also includes truly gourmet dinners prepared by John.

Guests can relax, taste wine in the vineyards, enjoy a nearby micro-brewery that makes superb beers, hit the beach, go for walks -- and all with the thoughtful touches provided by the Porters. We were heading for a long day of touring -- they insisted we take a cooler into which to put our food for our lunch on the beach.

John is a super cook -- not only in the quality of the food prepared, but also in its presentation. And the wines are great... more