About Our Team
Luba – Founder & Curator of Lodge by the Beach
I’m Luba, the founder and curator of Lodge by the Beach. With a background in real estate, a love of beautiful design, and strong management skills, I’ve created a peaceful boutique retreat that feels both exclusive and welcoming.
For me, your comfort and peace of mind always come first. I will personally welcome you on arrival, and I’m just a message or call away at any time during your stay.
My wish is that you feel not only cared for, but truly treated like royalty – with discreet yet exceptional service and attentive support always available. Whether you are here as a couple, with friends, or as a family, I want you to relax and enjoy knowing everything has been thoughtfully prepared for you. From peaceful beach days and ocean tours to hiking, biking, and scenic boat trips, your stay can be as restful or as adventurous as you wish. And when you return after a day of exploring, here at the Lodge you will find relaxation, warm care, and refined dining awaiting you.
Meet Tony Robson-Burrell – Our Michelin-Recognised Professional Private Chef
After training in Torquay, South Devon, England, and winning Student Chef of the Year, Tony began his career in London at some of the capital’s best restaurants, including Blake’s Hotel in South Kensington.
He went on to lead kitchens in two of the Cotswolds’ finest country house hotels, earning AA Rosettes, an Egon Ronay star, County Restaurant of the Year, and recognition in the Michelin Guide.
Tony’s journey then took him to New York, where he cooked at Manhattan’s prestigious Union League Club, before returning to England to run his own restaurants and pubs.
In New Zealand, Tony worked at wineries and boutique lodges, founded his own cookery school, and cooked for the now King and Queen of England during their visit to Mahana Estates, Nelson, in 2015.
Breathtaking Retreat with World-Class Dining and Unforgettable Views
– Kathleen Simard, USA
(Copy from Booking.com)
Luba (co-owner) is the quiet engine that makes the entire lodge experience run so seamlessly. Her thoughtfulness is woven into every aspect of a guest’s stay. From the carefully curated welcome amenities to the bathroom sundry basket filled with organic New Zealand skincare products, your own slippers, and even a takeaway journal, each detail reflects genuine care and intention. From the moment we arrived, it was evident that nothing is left to chance. Every comfort is anticipated. Luba isn’t just hosting guests — she is crafting an experience, and she does so with remarkable heart and precision.
The breakfasts and dinners were nothing short of outstanding — beautifully presented, generous, and absolutely delicious. Each meal felt like a fine-dining experience, yet remained warm, relaxed, and personal.
And the views? Simply million-dollar panoramas that take your breath away morning and night.
What made our stay even more special was getting to know Alan and Luba themselves. Their warmth, generosity, and genuine passion for what they’ve created shine through in everything they do. By the end of our stay, we truly felt we hadn’t just experienced exceptional hospitality — we had made new friends. If Singapore Airlines represents the gold standard of luxury in the skies, then this is the equivalent on the ground — the ultimate luxury lodging experience. We cannot recommend it highly enough and cannot wait to return.
– Dawn Abely, United States
(Copy from Tripadvisor)
Ten stars isn’t enough. Luba and Alan have built paradise on a point high above Abel Tasman beaches across from Split Apple Rock. A-List privacy. Breathtaking views. All inclusive meals by a personal chef. Truly personal attention and anticipation of every tiny detail . Bring only your clothes, leave your worries. We had one of four unique private luxury suites cleverly arranged where you feel like you are the only guests. Luba has thought of everything —personal slippers, fine skin products, selection soaps, candles, deep claw foot tub, rain shower and a heavenly comfortable bed.
Our Jacuzzi suite glass wall opened to a private deck, fire table, sun lounge chairs and hot tub overlooking the nearly deserted beach home to tiny blue penguins. I wandered down the private path and explored sea caves at low tide with a quarter mile of hidden beach totally to myself an hour before sunset.
The private chef served a customized breakfast, lunch and finally dinner at sunset. After dark the delightful unique calls of the blue penguins settling in for the night made me smile under a spectacular Milky Way.
Usually marketing is hype but this extraordinary place with incredible hosts and staff exceeded every expectation. You will not be disappointed.
– Selwyn Miete, Netherlands
(Copy from Google Maps)
Lodge by the Beach was one of the most memorable lodgings we’ve ever stayed in. Designed and built by the architect-owner, Alan with industrial grade materials for safety and various art pieces brought in from overseas, the property is truly amazing. Perched atop a hill near the Split Apple Rock with breathtaking views of the ocean and lush forests, it even offers the private access to a secluded, pristine beach, which made our stay feel like a true escape from the world. The culinary offerings were also exceptional. Each morning started with a delicious breakfast prepared by the guest chef and barista style coffee/tea & drinks. In the evening, our four-course dinner was prepared by the Michelin recognized private chef, Tony Robson- Burrell and each dish was a celebration of local flavors with Asian flare. While the views and the building are spectacular, what truly sets this lodging apart is the soul of the place. The hosts, Alan & Luba and the chef, Tony are some of the kindest, most hospitable people we’ve met. They treated us like family, anticipating every need (such as remembering our favorite morning coffee and teas) and ensuring every tiny detail was perfect. They went out of their ways to accommodate every request with level of sincerity and it can only come from people who truly love what they do. This property is a rare find where the architecture is as breathtaking as the landscape, and the people are as memorable as the views.
– Charles Park, US
(Copy from Expedia.com)
Our hosts, Luba and Allan, were fantastic. They immediately made us feel at home at the Lodge. Every detail was taken care of. Breakfast was prepared by a different chef daily, and included continental, traditional English or American, and Japanese during our stay. We went exploring a few days, and lunches to go were prepared for us ahead of time. Dinner was fantastic. Tony is a well known chef that prepares a surprising, multi-course gourmet dinner daily. Paired with the exquisite wines from the wine cellar, with excellent choices of local New Zealand wines, the dining experience was perfect.
We were able to meet some of the other guests during our stay, and we had great conversations during meals or cocktails.
If you have a chance to stay at the Lodge By The Beach, you will not be disappointed.
– Johannes Bisschops, United States
(Copy from Tripadvisor)
Luba and Alan’s place is a dream. We visited for our honeymoon and found this gem at Abel Tasman, their place is a luxury retreat. We cannot say enough positive comments about this stay, the location, having access to the private beach, the room and home were fully prepared with all the details needed and more. Their chefs are top notch, as if you were in a michelin star restaurant, but with the most beautiful views of the ocean and picturesque mountains on the back. Alan and Luba were the most amazing hosts and they are the nicest and warmest people. We will remember this stay forever.
– Jorge Nadal, Switzerland
(Copy from Google Maps)
– Keith and Claire Moore, Australia
(Copy from Peoplelikeus)
Not to mention Tony, the chef who would cook up something special every meal. It was an absolute highlight of our stay. Alan and Luba is a perfect team to look after anyone walking through their door.
Originally, we had booked for two nights but end up staying 4. It was hard to leave.
Thank you for the incredible experience was offered. Recommend it to anyone.
– Ching Evans, China
(Copy from Tripadvisor)
5 STARS all the way!! We were so fortunate to start our vacation at the Lodge. After four nights, we felt like old friends. The Lodge was spacious, comfortable, and truly special, thanks to Luba, Alan, and Tony. Each morning began with a healthy, plentiful breakfast, and after long days hiking Abel Tasman, we returned to great wine and a delicious three-course dinner prepared by Tony. And if you’re fortunate enough to have Alan step in as chef, his meals are just as exceptional.
Lux amenities, thick towels, soft robes, eco products and plush slippers were all provided. Added bonus we ended up using for the slippers the rest of our trip. The strong shower pressure and cloud bed was made for relaxation. In such a remote area with limited options in food and amenities, we were grateful to stay somewhere that offered convenience, warmth, and genuine hospitality, something we’ve still reminiscent as we wrap up our three-week vacation.
We can’t wait to return someday and catch up with them like old friends!
– Tammy Phan, USA
(Copy from Google Maps)
We travel a lot and have seen many beautiful places and amazing accommodations around the world, but this stay was truly something special. The house itself is stunning, the surroundings are breathtaking, and what made it unforgettable were the incredible hosts, Luba and Alan. Their warmth and exceptional hospitality created a feeling of home from the very first moment. A special highlight was the private chef, Tony, whose dishes were outstanding and added an extraordinary touch to our stay. This place is genuinely magical – not only because of its beauty, but because of the people who make it so unique. We will remember this experience for a long time and can only give our highest recommendation.
– Jule Kilgus, Germany
(Copy from Booking.com)
Spoiled for life!!!!
– Ingeborg Zillikens, Netherlands
(Copy from Booking.com)
We absolutely loved our stay here. The hosts were so friendly and went above and beyond to ensure we had everything we needed to enhance our stay. We stayed in the jacuzzi room and loved the luxury of having our own private balcony with a hot tub. The rooms are made extra comfortable with soft sheets are equipped with many personal touches such as eco toiletries, slippers, gowns and fresh flowers. The chef was amazing and consistently offered delicious 4 course meals often quite unique dishes. It is a really special experience and we would recommend to anyone.
– Jade, England
(Copy from Google Maps)
My husband and I booked three nights at the lodge and didn’t want to leave so we booked another two nights and didn’t want to leave. The lodge and surroundings are stunning. The lodge is close Kaiteriteri and amenities, but when you are there it so peaceful and tranquil you feel a million miles from the crowds and noise. We walked down the private stairs to the secluded beach and swam. From the cove, if you swim out a bit, you can see New Zealand’s famous Split Apple Rock.
As to the amenities in the lodge, it exceeded all our expectations. The owners, Alan and Luba, were so gracious and welcoming. The private chef was amazing. The breakfasts were delicious and the dinners were beautiful. The whole experience was memorable.
I highly recommend the lodge. If you are looking for a luxurious but relaxed place to stay, book this lodge, you will love it.
– Laura Pagey, USA
(Copy from Google Maps)
The Lodge is located in a privileged spot very near Abel Tasman national park. Surroundings are pure nature and incredible views of the ocean, beaches and islands. The lodge has easy access with some stairs to a (almost private) beach. Kayaks are available which was great. Both the park and Kaiteriteri are reachable by kayak. And this all hosted by splendid hosts Luba and Alan and their team of chefs for dinner and breakfast. Thanks Tony for your delicious meals.
– Willem Anna, Belgium
– Vania Farrow, New Zealand
(Copy from Tripadvisor)
An amazing place to stay! Friendly, welcoming and helpful hosts who went above and beyond to make us feel at home. They had thought of everything to make our stay truly special, from the little details in our room to the warm hospitality throughout. Our room was incredible – sea views, spacious, beautifully presented, and so comfortable. Having our own chef who cooked delicious meals for us was such a treat, and the food was outstanding. The location couldn’t be better, with direct access to a golden beach that felt like our own private paradise. We couldn’t have asked for a better experience – highly recommend to anyone looking for something truly memorable!
– Dave Sampson, New Zealand
(Copy from Expedia group)
What a fantastic start to our tour of New Zealand. We were welcomed to their home by wonderful hosts Luba and Alan. We stayed in the Jacuzzi Suite with spectacular views of Abel Tasman above their private golden sand beach. Luba and Alan went out of their way to make our stay so personal and memorable. Tony, the brilliant English chef prepared outstanding meals and entertained us with his wonderful sense of humor. Breakfasts were both a delight and a surprise including Japanese delicacies. We truly felt our stay was unique because of Luba and Alan’s attention to every detail. We wish them both every success in this new venture.
– Liz and Peter Robinson, USA
(Copy from Google Maps)
Our stay at Lodge by the beach was one to remember for all the right reasons. The accomodation was amazing, the service was kind and friendly and the food was outstanding.
The team went above and beyond to organise additional activities and surprises which made the experience even more memorable.
We would highly recommend staying here if you are looking for a luxurious and relaxed getaway where everything is to a high standard.
Thanks again for looking after us while we were there.
– Jon Sanders, New Zealand
(Copy from Google Maps)
One of the best beach boutiques we have ever stayed at. Location, food, service, hospitality, all top notch. So many amenities come with your stay, the chef is incredible, Luba and Alan are meant to do this, we’ll be back!
– Josh Wilson, United States
(Copy from Google Maps)
Hands down, one of the most spectacular places we stayed. We had our own private Chef, went above and beyond to make our whole experience exceptional! The food creations are mind blowing and healthy as well. Very comfortable bed and amazing views from every corner. We ended up extending by another night.
– Tina Schirr, New Zealand
(Copy from Google Maps)
What a perfect place to stay when visiting Abel Tasman! First, this is NOT a hotel. It’s a home, and you feel the warmth of the home right away thanks to the wonderful owners Luba and Alan. Extremely friendly people, who care, and want all their guests to really have a magical stay.
I stayed in the Cozy Suite, the smallest of the rooms, and it was huge. Just perfect for a solo traveler or even a couple. Absolutely breathtakingly beautiful views from the bedroom but the views are even more spectacular from the kitchen area.
This is the first time I’ve ever stayed at a place that hires private chefs to prepare all the meals for the day. Breakfast was great and tasty, but dinner is truly where the magic happens. Tony, a Michelin recognized chef from England, is truly a spectacular chef. I devoured everything he prepared, nothing was left on the plates.
Huge thanks to Luba, Alan, and Tony, for making my time in Nelson/Abel Tasman something to remember.
– Thomas Meyer, USA
(Copy from Google Maps)
This accomodation was absolutely the very best within 4 weeks of travel. The location, the sourrounding with private beach and splendid internal was exorbitant. We did not expect such a luxural stay!! ..and all above the excellent hosting with breakfast and dinner, could easily meet the standard of 3 star Michelin restaurants. Thank you for this excellent accomodation experience!
– Karl & Elke, England
(Copy from Expedia Group)
A Perfect Getaway at a Stunning Lodge
My wife and I had the most incredible stay at this beautiful lodge in Abel Tasman, New Zealand. From the moment we arrived, we were blown away by the breathtaking views and the serene atmosphere. One of the highlights was having our own private beach—waking up to the sound of the waves and enjoying the peaceful surroundings was simply magical.
The chef made our experience even more special. He was warm, welcoming, and an exceptional chef! Every breakfast and dinner he prepared was absolutely delicious, made with fresh ingredients and incredible attention to detail. Dining while overlooking the stunning scenery made each meal even more memorable.
If you’re looking for a relaxing and luxurious escape in nature, this lodge is the perfect choice. We can’t wait to come back!
– Karan Sharma, USA
(Copy from Google Maps)
This is one othe most wonderful places I’ve ever stayed in all my years of traveling. The room, the food, the location, the hospitality — just pitch perfect in every wayl Far exceeded my already high expectations.
– Vivian Schiller, USA
(Copy from Booking.com)
Seriously Excellent plus plus!
Having travelled a lot around the world and in New Zealand this is one of the most wonderful places I have stayed. Location in secluded spot at end of a peninsula, breath taking views and accommodation with amazing service.
– David Marshall, England
(Copy from Expedia Group)
Beautiful Stay!
What a luxurious hidden gem. It was our favorite place that we stayed in all of South Island. The views were unmatched and the proximity to the park was extremely convenient. Last but not least, our chef was great. Would recommend to any friends looking for a slice of paradise.
– Robert Schipper, USA
(Copy from Tripadvisor)
The internal facilities are super high-end, the service staff are super nice, and they always wait for my arrival no matter what time it is. Breakfast and dinner are provided, and the external scenery is pleasant. I will definitely come again in the future!
– Yu, China
(Copy from Booking.com)
I traveled the seven seas, to stay in this wonderful location surrounded with firn trees and breathtsking views. i will remember it a lifetime also the chef that comes with it. i cant decide whether to call it Garden Eden or Paradise Beach, so i go for Garden Paradise 🙂
– Michael Vogt, Switzerland
(Copy from Google Maps)
This property is outstanding. Pure luxury. The private chef is an excellent producing fantastic meals. If you are in the area you must stay here.
You will not regret it. Amazing, amazing, amazing!
– Nigel Morgan, England
(Copy from Booking.com)
Amazing house with attention to every detail! It makes a huge impression and looks even better in reality than in the photos. The hosts treat you like a friend, not a customer and they are amazing! The level of hotels such as Four Seasons, Six Senses or Raffles!
– Bartek Rychcik, Poland
(Copy from Google Maps)
– Mara J, New Zealand
(Copy from Tripadvisor)
– Chris, United States
(Copy from Google Maps)
– Peter Sorensen, Denmark
(Copy from Tripadvisor)
The personal touch and attention of our hosts, their first class service, hospitality and organisation throughout our stay were the basics that made us feel welcome and very comfortable. This they managed in a very professional, but uncomplicated way.
The location is perfect with a lodge offering more than you need. Very clean and super beds. The interior of the lodge including the design of our suite and the surrounding terraces were very beautiful and everything well kept.
The lodge has direct access to a lonely beautiful beach via small path and stone stairs. A home as well for little blue Pinguins.
The idea of having different private international cooks preparing breakfast and different dinners for you made the stay very special. We are grateful that this experience was part of our tour. Really an astonishing quite hide-away still close to Kaiteriteri and the Tasman National Park.
– Annett Jacobsen, Germany
(Copy from Tripadvisor)
The hosts Luba and Alan provide everything you need and things you didn’t realise you needed… including a private chef Tony to prepare your 4 course dinner every evening ( amazing ) . Breakfast is different each day – including a beautiful Japanese breakfast on one morning .
An unforgettable experience – highly recommended .
– Elizabeth Green, England
(Copy from Tripadvisor)
But Alan and Luba were there to welcome us and reassure us that we were in the right place. We were frankly blown away by how nice it was. Alan spent 4 years building it as a private residence to a very high spec – floor to ceiling windows, multiple outdoor seating areas, marble floors, etc. Thankfully, he decided to open it up to visitors and he and Luba are putting their heart and soul into turning it into a beautiful destination.
The best feature is the beach it overlooks. While technically there are no private beaches in NZ, this is as close as it gets. Walk down the steps and you have a beautiful sand beach virtually to yourselves. Note, it’s about 3-4 stories worth of steps so not for those that are mobility impaired. But I went up and down it multiple times every day as I couldn’t get enough of the beach.
Fantastic food from a private chef, close proximity to Abel Tasman National Park (approx 15 min drive), swimming, kayaks and stand up paddle for free, lying down at night and see the milky way emerge as the light fades, etc. This was the only place we didn’t have to book private tours to take you to the famous walks or for a kayak guide. It was all easily accessible and astoundingly beautiful.
This place has only recently been opened to tourists. It won’t be long before the Lodge is discovered and becomes incredibly hard to book. I wish we had booked it for more than the 2 nights we stayed there.
– Henry Adams, United States
(Copy from Tripadvisor)
Unbelievable hospitality and views at the Lodge by the Beach! We stayed 2 nights in the jacuzzi suite, and were totally happy and comfortable every minute of our stay. Luba and Alan are amazing hosts, making sure our stay was the highlight of our visit to New Zealand – and the food from chef Tony was absolutely the best meals we had anywhere! Great views, easy access to a stunning beach, and fantastic accomodations – can’t recommend highly enough!
– Chris Anton, USA
(Copy from Google Maps)
This lodge is truly luxurious and the gracious hosts put their heart into this place. The attention to detail was exceptional, from the perfectly curated menu with local NZ foods, the plush linens and towels, to the decadent and eco-friendly bath products. It was everything we hoped for and more. We spent our time on beaches, enjoyed the kayaks provided, and watched the stars while relaxing in the jacuzzi. The indoor soaker tub was the cherry on top. This place was absolutely unforgettable.
– Katherine Wincentak, Canada
(Copy from Booking.com)
Amazing. Luba and Alan made our stay truly unforgettable. The room was immaculate and incredibly comfortable, with every detail thoughtfully provided for. The location is unbeatable; the lodge’s view is breathtaking, and the beach offers a serene, private escape. The food was extraordinary, and Chef Tony’s dishes were a highlight of the trip.
– Amber Schweiger, USA
(Copy from Google Maps)
