Eight Winter Stays in New Zealand That Give You More Bang for Your Buck
Chase the snow, the stars or the hot springs with an exclusive offer for Visa cardholders.
Eight Winter Stays in New Zealand That Give You More Bang for Your Buck
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Chase the snow, the stars or the hot springs with an exclusive offer for Visa cardholders.
Winter is when Aotearoa really turns it on. There's snow on the mountains, clear skies over Lake Tekapo and hot pools to warm you up on freezing days. Whether you're hitting the slopes, exploring the wine regions, or just settling in somewhere cosy, New Zealand is all about slowing down, clearing your head and enjoying every moment.
To help you plan the perfect escape, we've rounded up eight of the best winter stays across the North and South Island – and every one of them is ten percent off when you book via our dedicated travel platform, Concrete Playground Trips using your Visa card.
From boutique gems to lakeside luxury, these are the hotels worth checking into this season.
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If you're looking for mountain views, easy access to the slopes and a big dose of Queenstown charm, Hotel St Moritz delivers on every front. The rooms are warm and elegant, with comfortable beds, alpine-inspired interiors and huge windows overlooking Lake Wakatipu to The Remarkables. After a day of skiing or exploring the town centre, you can defrost by the fire, relax in the hot tub garden (yes, there's a garden of hot tubs) or head to Lombardi, the hotel's in-house bar and restaurant.
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Lake Tekapo is world-famous for its stargazing thanks to its International Dark Sky Reserve, and Peppers Bluewater Resort is the perfect base to take it all in. This contemporary stay offers stunning views of the lake and mountains, plus cosy rooms to retreat to after a night of exploring. Choose from the hotel's variety of suites or self-contained villas, all just minutes from nearby spas, horse riding and ski fields. Make sure to bring a jacket and your camera, the picture perfect skies are something you’ll want to capture.
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One of Christchurch's best-kept secrets, The Observatory Hotel blends history with modern boutique vibes. Set in the city's restored Arts Centre, the rooms give a European feel with exposed brick walls, bold velvet furniture, and custom art everywhere you look. It's walking distance to everything in central Christchurch, with the Botanic Gardens and Riverside Market just around the corner. A great pick for your next city break.
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At the very bottom of the South Island, Bluff is a tiny town best known as the gateway to Stewart Island. But it's also home to this peaceful boutique hotel. Lands End Hotel offers coastal beauty and ocean views, with just a handful of King or Twin rooms and a warm, welcoming feel. There's a terrace to sit out and look at the water, complimentary breakfast and close access to local walking tracks and restaurants. It's the perfect place to unplug and relax.
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Want your accommodation with a side of history? The Convent Hotel is set in a converted 1922 Spanish Mission-style building, which was once a community for nuns. After an impressive renovation, it's now a stylish stay that's full of character and friendly service. Each of the 22 rooms has its own design quirks, with vintage furnishings, original architecture and loads of personality. You’re a ten minute drive to Auckland, and close to Ponsonby Road's cafes, bars and boutiques. Or you can just settle in with a drink at Ada, the hotel's acclaimed on-site restaurant and wine bar.
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Right in the heart of Wellington, this art-filled, maximalist hotel is all about colour, pattern and over-the-top design. The 62 rooms are luxe and comfortable, curated to each have their own unique spin by local designers, Material Creative. There's also an indoor pool, spa and fitness centre, a funky little bar downstairs and plenty of popular Wellington spots within walking distance. Great for those who want a different kind of weekend escape.
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This Hilton property offers five-star facilities you can't find anywhere else in the region. Right near New Zealand's largest lake, it features luxurious rooms, an outdoor tennis court, heated outdoor pool, sauna and steam room, plus all the high-quality service you'd expect from a Hilton. After a day of shopping in town, exploring the nearby thermal springs, or playing a round of golf, you can wind down with a drink and view over Lake Taupō at the hotel restaurant.
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Hana Lodge is the kind of place you go to disappear for a few days. Hidden within lush 15-acre gardens on the shores of Lake Totehu, this boutique hotel offers wellness, nature and luxury. The rooms are small in number and simple in design, with stunning views across the property, and there's a lodge pool, bamboo forest and on-site sauna and spa. It's just 15 minutes to the city centre but feels worlds away.
Book here using your Visa card to unlock an exclusive 10% discount on Concrete Playground Trips.
By Jacque Kennedy.
