Beautiful mountain views, quiet rivers and rolling hills — New Zealand is where stunning scenery takes place. A trip to this region means drinking top-quality wine at the vines, pampering in a luxury spa bath, golfing on a championship course, skiing, or exploring the south island’s natural beauty. Nestled beneath this epic landscape are some luxurious hotels and retreats worldwide.
1. Helena Bay, Northland
In the winterless northwest lies Helena Bay, an incredibly luxurious resort with five twin bedrooms between private beaches and pristine oases overlooking the Pacific Ocean. You will have binoculars available to view any of the visiting animals. Archaeologists have discovered five gravestones on this historical land area, later used by Croatian settlers in producing wine. Eventually, the property was cleared as a farm until its purchase in 2007. In the early 1970s, the land was used for lower-intensity farming, including Wagyu cattle grazing and the forests were used to absorb carbon instead of producing it.
2. Treetops Lodge, Rotorua
Cosiness comes in a lot more than grandeur. At the edge of Rotorua, in a forest on the edge of Nowhere, there are warm fireplaces, comfy couches, books and a room filled with games. In addition to gold, a decanter and a fully-stocked estate. It’s treetop, a hunting-lodge hotel which embodies luxury winter retreats. It is centred on 1000 hectares of native bush, which has been crossed with creeks and walks along bushwalks. It’s a place worth exploring. Trout in rivers and deer roam the property – do not be surprised that a few wanders past you at tucked away nights.
3. Annandale, Banks Peninsula
The Annandale’s offer “gumboots luxury lodges” – bring your Hunter or Red Band to go. Visitors have exclusive access to the Villas homestead or Cottage (or Stable – a two-bedroom luxurious accommodation), so the retreat is entirely private. Select Scrubby Bay for a private pool in the bank’s hills and space for 14 guests. Seascape-only room 2 can sleep – the romantic option, with an outdoor fire pit and spa, in a beautiful room situated on a steep hill. From 1843 to 1600 acres of land covered the coastal area, and Annandale has over 10,000 grazing cows and sheep.
4. Split Apple Retreat, Abel Tasman
The Split Apple Retreat is located in southwestern New Zealand on secluded peninsulas with sweeping views across the Tasman Sea and mountains. The retreat runs under the direction of an expert physician and a chef and provides a saltwater infinity pool, exclusive private beach area, and bush walk and offers massage, acupuncture, yoga classes and meditation. The Hotel offers Japanese Onsen hot baths and sauna facilities. The Asian-Mediterranean menu is customised according to your needs and objectives, and a cooking class is given.
5. Eagles Nest, Bay of Islands
Does a private chef and fine dining sound good? How about butlers and waiters? Are there any personal trainers? Do spas offer massage therapy? You wish at Eagles Nest, a peninsular cliff house where the guest gets their private villa essentially. The largest house consists of 1 bedroom and two bathrooms. Is there one? Prepare yourself for four bedrooms with full ensuite bathrooms, butler, beach, wine cellar, and swimming area, 25 metres from the Porsche. Each luxury villa has a private pool and complimentary champagne upon arrival.
6. Bay of Many Coves, Marlborough
Easy access to this luxury lodge can only be accomplished via boat & aeroplane, and it takes 20 minutes to helicopter to Wellington. The entrance into the bay of Many Coves will start your luxury journey. Marlborough Sounds are some of New Zealand’s best locations: ancient rivers and valleys filled in the waters create a spectacular landscape with curves, corners and spots accessible only by water. It offers dolphin-watching experiences and seafood tours, and the Queen Charlotte track is nearby.
7. Hapuku, Kaikoura
The Hapuku Lodge Tree House is situated near Kaikoura, quiet and architecturally interesting. The Lodge has a strong ecological theme and is part of a deer farm. The tree houses are an assortment of cabins built on stilts above a manuka grove with views across the property. Behind the cabin are beautiful Kaikoura Mountain and in front of the ocean are beautiful peaks of Kaikoura Sea. The vibes are relaxed at this Hotel – expect friendly, unpretentious service as you take in the scenery.
8. Wharekauhau, Palliser Bay
Living like the queen in the Wharekauhau estate is a pleasure. Built-in a historic and prestigious sheep station in New Zealand, from floor to ceiling windows, this luxurious Lodge celebrates New Zealand agriculture heritage and its rich heritage. However, the estate enjoyed royal affection and was visited in 2013 by Kate and William and the Danish King in 2018. James Cameron resides next door. The Lodge is just 90 minutes driving away from Wellington and is situated between peaks, gorges and coastline.
9. Stonefly Lodge, Nelson
Luxury lodging offering fly-fishing in one place. The best natural environment. Stonefly focuses mainly on the natural surroundings. The Lodge is situated between Kahurangi and Nelson Lake National Park and is surrounded by many nearby rivers. The fishing seasons begin in November and run from April. The novices get lessons, and professionals are guided into a hidden location. Out of season, the park is open and includes cycling paths, hiking paths and wine and dining excursions.
10. Blanket Bay, Glenorchy
Is there a better location than Wakatipu Lake? This stone and wood lodge is furnished with open log fireplaces and offers a large lake view through the ceiling. Central to the Hotel is the great room with 9m ceilings and sweeping central antler chandeliers. Guests are invited every evening to chat about food and drinks. The nearest airport to Jet Skiing, hiking, kayaking, bungee diving, Heli ski, a trip into Milford Sound and the best New Zealand casinos to keep you entertained when you’re indoors.
11. Delamore Lodge, Waiheke
Holiday in Delamore at Waiheke where Madonna and even Alanis Morissette have stayed a couple of times. Delamore is a peaceful and private escape on a cliff overlooking the Hauraki Bay and is just a 5-minute drive from ferry terminals. The Hotel is a small boutique hotel that is personalised and offers exceptional service. There are few rooms, so you’ll know them instantly.
