Overview
Dreaming of the ultimate holiday accommodation? New Zealand has no shortage of first-class getaways for when you have cash to splash and really want to treat yourself. Pencil in a weekend to stay at one of the best lakefront spots in Queenstown, a high-country lodge previously owned by Shania Twain, or a lavish Northland retreat with its own private natural rock pool.
EICHARDT'S PRIVATE HOTEL, QUEENSTOWN
Eichardt's Private Hotel boasts one of the best lakefront positions in Queenstown. The historic waterfront property provides seven luxury accomodation options, from lake-side suites, to four split-level apartments and an OTT penthouse. The latter is the pick of the bunch if you really want to go all out. It comes with a dedicated 24-hour butler, pre-dinner cocktails served in-suite, a selection of top-shelf spirits replenished daily, and its own rooftop hot tub. Breakfast is included, as is your own private chef. For those looking to hit the water, the property also offers the Pacific Jemm, a 24-metre vessel offering guests the chance to navigate the region's pristine glacial waters in style.
How much? From $1289 per night.
MAHU WHENUA, WANAKA
This luxurious eco-sanctuary is located just 20 minutes drive from Wanaka or ten minutes by helicopter from Queenstown. The lodge-style accommodation was previously owned by Shania Twain and could be hired out for an eye-popping $15K per night. Now, it has five more affordable individual suites on offer — though it's still available on an exclusive-use basis for up to 12 guests. As the property sits across four sheep stations, all means of high-country adventures and experiences can be included during your stay. Your itinerary could feature a helicopter excursion exploring nearby national parks, horse trekking through native beech forest, a hands-on orientation farm tour, or guided heli-biking. Given the property's seclusion, all meals are provided as part of the booking fee, from breakfast through lunch to pre-dinner canapés.
How much? From $1950 per night.
WHAREKAUHAU COUNTRY ESTATE, WAIRARAPA
This grand Edwardian lodge is nestled at the foothills of the Remutaka Ranges and perched high above the breakers of Palliser Bay. Antique furniture and oversized classic fireplaces fill the space and transport visitors to a bygone era, while ATV quad biking and clay bird shooting bring the experience right back to the 21st century. A booking at Wharekauhau comes with pre-dinner drinks and canapés, a four-course dinner and the famous farmhouse breakfast.
How much? From $995 per night.
THE GLASSHOUSE, WHANGAREI HEADS
Only two hours north from Auckland, The Glasshouse is a luxurious retreat which sits at the tip of a 20-acre coastal peninsula, providing guests with privacy and sweeping ocean vistas. The one-bedroom retreat has everything you need for a romantic escape, whether it's getting cosy by the outside fire, napping in a hammock or trekking to your own private natural rock pool. If you'd prefer not to get the on-site kitchen dirty, a local chef can be dialled up to whip up your favourite dish. The property can also arrange visits from massage and beauty therapists.
How much? From $1250 per night.
ANNANDALE, BANKS PENINSULA
Annandale is what they call "gumboot luxury". Found on working coastal farm in Canterbury's Banks Peninsula, the property boasts five accomodation options where guests can select activities and the level of service that suits their style. The Homestead is an 1880s five-bedroom villa; Seascape is a romantic glass structure floating over the sea; Scrubby Bay is a private beach house on the outer reaches of the property for gatherings up to 14; Shepherd's Cottage is a secluded rural lodging; and The Stables is a luxury loft apartment with room for four.
How much? From $1195 per night.