Karikari resort built on long friendship

By TONY GEE

A business partnership formed by two Americans who were Pennsylvania University room-mates more than 40 years ago has developed into a multimillion-dollar resort near Kaitaia.

The Carrington Club, set on a 1200ha farm of the same name on the Karikari Peninsula, formally opened on Friday.

The complex of private beaches, restored natural wetlands, an 18-hole golf course, vineyard, black angus stud cattle farm, clubhouse, lodge and villa accommodation, restaurant, lounge bar and recreation facilities has been put together by American architect Bob Haig.

He has been partnered in the ambitious venture by a long-time friend and former university room mate, Connecticut investment banker Paul Kelly.

Mr Kelly remains in the United States but Mr Haig has been joined by son Ben, who came to New Zealand last year to work full time on the property and is now operations manager.

The family organisation has made a point of offering jobs to local people, and employs 26 staff in five operations, all of them local residents.

Aiming to become known as New Zealand's northernmost winery above Karikari Beach and the golf course, Carrington Estate's winery plant is scheduled to start production within the next two years.

The first grapes were planted in 1998 and the vineyards now cover 24ha.

The estate expects to produce a range of varietal wines, with emphasis on cabernet sauvignon, shiraz, merlot and chardonnay.

To the north of the 6736m, par-72 golf course are wetlands, some of which have been extensively restored and planted with native trees, bushes and shrubs.

They are now home to a number of bird species as the property works to maintain natural environmentally sensitive areas within its boundaries.

For the restaurant's dining tables, Ben Haig said Carrington was working with meat processor Affco on an ageing process for beef before it went to the club's kitchen.

Still under construction are 10 three-bedroom, duplex residential villas. When completed this year, they will join four others available now for ownership by Carrington Club members.