When it comes to crafting effortlessly luxurious spaces, Jenni Kayne has the magic touch—and her newest venture at Te Arai Links, just an hour outside Auckland, New Zealand, proves it. This isn’t your typical cookie-cutter resort: think California-cool vibes blended with a touch of Kiwi coastal ease, all served up with laid-back sophistication.
Famed for zen-like interiors adored by A-listers, Kayne has unleashed her design prowess across Te Arai’s 48 chic suites, 19 breezy two-bedroom Ocean Cottages, and five seriously swoon-worthy four-bedroom Villas. She didn’t stop there, adding her creative flair to two standout dining experiences, each uniquely captivating in its own way.
“California style and the New Zealand aesthetic feel quite similar to me,” Kayne says. “They both reflect a very relaxed, coastal feeling that is based around nature.” This shared sensibility shines throughout the resort, pairing relaxed comfort seamlessly with subtle elegance.
Ric’s, the resort’s casual dining spot, embraces family-friendly vibes with picnic tables and an easy, breezy atmosphere. Ocean Restaurant, on the other hand, elevates the experience just enough to feel special without losing its relaxed charm. Here you’ll find polished travertine tabletops, custom-made leather chairs, and thoughtfully chosen local ceramics—perfect for those leisurely meals as the sun sets.
“Much like the rest of the resort, everything at the Ocean Restaurant and Ocean Cottages had to be super clean, comfortable, and natural,” explains Kayne, who closely collaborated with architect John Irving. “We wanted the interiors to reflect the gorgeous nature outside.”
Local materials are the real showstoppers here, celebrating New Zealand’s stunning natural heritage. Indigenous kauri wood complements the refined elegance of cedar, each thoughtfully selected not just to withstand the salty breezes, but to flourish in them. “Sourcing outdoor-friendly pieces is always a challenge, but we focused on items that would stand the test of time,” Kayne adds.
Every choice at Te Arai—from handcrafted ceramics to bespoke furniture and tableware—shouts out New Zealand’s rich, vibrant culture. “It was crucial to celebrate New Zealand’s rich culture,” Kayne emphasizes. The resulting spaces gracefully blend California ease with authentic Kiwi charm aka interiors that feel both welcoming and deeply rooted in their locale.
The Ocean Cottages are instant mood-lifters, with dramatic windows framing panoramic ocean vistas. Then there’s the soft, inviting linens paired with cozy rugs and warm wooden finishes that create spaces that practically beg you to unwind. Even the bathrooms get the luxe treatment, complete with sleek fixtures and deep soaking tubs perfect for some serious relaxation.
Kayne didn’t shy away from practical considerations either. Recognizing the coastal climate’s challenges, she carefully chose furnishings and finishes that could withstand New Zealand’s seaside environment.
“Sourcing items that will gracefully patina without compromising comfort or style required careful planning,” she admits. Her meticulous choices ensure the spaces will remain charming season after season.
Yet it’s the subtle touches that Kayne hopes guests will appreciate most, particularly how each space effortlessly connects with the surrounding nature. Thoughtfully landscaped pathways and outdoor areas feature native plants, enhancing the feeling of being immersed in the coastal landscape. “You’re always looking out at the landscape,” she notes. “That was by design, and I hope every guest enjoys that.”
Guests seeking adventure will find that the resort encourages a deeper connection to nature, with plenty of hiking trails, beachfront strolls, and outdoor lounging spots right outside their doors. This seamless integration of indoor and outdoor living encapsulates Kayne’s vision—luxury that feels intuitive, comfortable, and never contrived.
Kayne’s interiors at Te Arai Links transcend traditional design, crafting spaces that effortlessly blend laid-back luxury with coastal charm. Each thoughtfully appointed room evokes the ease of flipping through a well-loved travel journal—inviting guests to settle in, soak up nature’s beauty, and start dreaming about their return before the first visit ends.
