Last weekend we held a writer’s retreat, with fifteen experienced or aspiring writers  working together under the guidance of Joan Rosier-Jones.  It was a very productive, energy-filled weekend and Trevor Jones, from Auckland, felt he had to say something about his experience.

The night we arrived it rained. We had been welcomed, registered and shown to our rooms. It was the expected 3Bs – Bedroom, Bathroom (spacious and modern) and Balcony. The balcony was also spacious, certainly enough room for a private breakfast or after dinner drinks. The wall separating the room from the balcony was all glass, increasing the feeling of space but also drawing you into the magnificent views of the sounds. At that point the view was a little restricted. The clouds had sunk onto the hills swallowing the trees and trying to return to the water. Inside it was bright and warm, the heating silent, easy to control and very efficient. The bed looked very inviting and the sound of rain on the roof was almost comforting. I knew I would sleep well and so it proved.

The next morning revealed the first rays of sunshine on distant hills that last night had seemed to huddle together like a pack of dark dogs but now, with the new warmth, had shaken off the water and gone for a roam. Hill after hill could be seen standing proudly behind each other. Solid green masses making it impossible to separate one from another. Was that just another ridge or a separate land mass? Was there another strip of sounds water between them or would it be possible to hike from one to another?

The drive to explore by land and water was almost irresistible, but I had other things to do – starting with breakfast. After all, an explorer needs a hearty meal to start the day.
The hotel offers a fine range of foods, a number of venues to eat and more views of the sounds. The waters edge is only metres away from the hotel buildings with a pier  providing easy access to visiting boats or tourist trips.

The Portage offers a true taste of early New Zealand with many native sounds and sights complimented by professional , friendly service. The staff all seem to care for their guests and handle enquires with knowledge and warmth.
This is not your traditional 5 star city hotel, and neither should it be. It is a comfortable lodge providing shelter and sustenance to the weary traveler with a few modern comforts. No video games room, no satellite T.V., just a chance to relax and recoup in a magnificent setting. Thanks to all concerned.

P.S. If you wonder why this is so verbose, I was part of a group attending a Writers Retreat and was so inspired I couldn’t stop writing. Otherwise I would have just said- “Having a great time. Wish you were here?”

Trevor Jones
May 2011
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