Extraordinary Escapes: Find Your Relaxing Getaway in New Zealand
It's always an ideal time to visit New Zealand, the only thing to decide is when and where you'll stay.
Flick the switch to choose your season.
Extraordinary Escapes: Find Your Relaxing Getaway in New Zealand
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It's always an ideal time to visit New Zealand, the only thing to decide is when and where you'll stay.
An escape to Aotearoa New Zealand can cater to all your holiday desires, whatever they may be.
Whether your idea of a perfect getaway is to be gazing out at incredible scenery, absorbing it all on a hike, bike, paddle, swim or walk, or being pampered into a state of utter relaxation, New Zealand will take your breath away. Make where you stay part of your holiday too, rather than simply a place to rest your head after an experience-packed day.
From camping out under the stars beneath one of the darkest skies on Earth to retreating into luxury residences next to vineyards and cellar doors, or even going completely off-grid, the getaways you'll find in New Zealand are uniquely extraordinary.
Although New Zealand beckons for a holiday year-round, the seasons will shape your sojourn too. Revel in the charm of changing landscapes in autumn, catch your breath on alpine walks and in hot springs in winter, or experience the energy of spring as native wildlife and vegetation start afresh.
No matter when you visit, you'll be welcomed with manaakitanga, a Maōri value encompassing a deep sense of connection and welcome, for a holiday you'll wish never had to end.
We've partnered with 100% Pure New Zealand to curate some of our favourite stays in New Zealand, including which season they're best experienced in, to help you plan an unforgettable trip.
Flick the switch for incredible getaway venues in autumn, winter and spring.
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Amid the stunning landscape of Matawhero Winery, these luxury cabins offer a peaceful escape surrounded by award-winning vines. With the autumnal sun setting over the vineyard, the views from your cabin’s private deck could hardly be better.
While each cabin has a kitchenette so you can whip up a meal, the rustic cellar door offers tempting cheese platters and wine pairings. While you’re there, explore the winery’s underground cellar which is home to not only many of Matawhero’s vintage wines, but those from other New Zealand wineries too.
Located just 10 minutes outside of Gisborne, venture beyond Matawhero Winery to explore even more wineries, partake in an astro tour or go for a scenic bike ride along a coastal railway route.
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Discover New Zealand’s only geothermal mud spa at Hell’s Gate Geothermal Reserve and Mud Spa.
Immersed in native bushland and steamy clouds, this rejuvenating experience might just redefine the meaning of relaxation. With three bookings to choose between, the ‘Hell’s Gate Experience’ combines interactive geothermal walks with dips into mud baths and sulphur spas. You’ll also appreciate the remarkable history behind Hell’s Gate, with Māori warriors healing their wounds in its mud for over 800 years.
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In the heart of Wellington’s cultural centre on Ghuznee St, right by bustling Cuba Street, is The Intrepid Hotel. This unbeatable location is the perfect starting point from which to take in the capital city’s many sights and explore some of the best restaurants, bars, cafes, and vintage shopping in town.
The hotel features 18 contemporary rooms across three floors. The rooms are split into three sizes — Precious (queen), Baker Street (king), and Mighty (super king) — and all come furnished with luxurious beds, velvety furniture and unique artwork.
All of your traditional in-room luxuries are there, too, including plush robes, fresh linen sheets, extra-large television screens and sustainable skin care provided by plant-based retailer Real World.
Minibars are stocked with complimentary local beverages and snacks, while outside on the landing guests have access to bottomless Coffee Supreme filter coffee and Libertine Tea.
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Positioned in a particularly beautiful part of Hawke’s Bay, Te Mānia is a stunning property in harmony with the landscape.
Set on a lake’s edge with uninterrupted valley views, there’s enough space for four couples if you’re planning an idyllic escape with friends or family. Brimming with architectural details and contemporary touches, a huge projector screen and a roaring fireplace make autumnal nights even more special.
Although Hawke’s Bay is synonymous with wine country — and lives up to its reputation as a haven for food and wine lovers — there’s much more to see and do. The idyllic region also boasts fantastic birdwatching with the largest gannet colony in the world, a coastal promenade perfect for ambling along and Art Deco architecture straight from the 1930s.
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Set along Golden Bay on the northern fringe of the South Island and right on the doorstep of idyllic Abel Tasman National Park, Drift Off Grid is a luxury glamping experience without compromise.
Flanked by native bushland, each cosy tent features log burners, underfloor heating and loads of blankets. Perched on a steep hillside, you’ll also have a beautiful view of the nearby water. Plus, guests get their own electric buggy to make getting to and from the beach a breeze.
Beyond the luxury glamping grounds, there’s even more paradise to be enjoyed in Abel Tasman National Park where crisp mornings, calm waters and serene beaches await alongside an array of outdoor experiences including kayaking, catamaran sailing and heli-tours. Inside the National Park is also where you’ll find the multi-day Abel Tasman Coastal Track, one of New Zealand’s signature ‘Great Walks’.
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Pumice Tiny House might only be 45 square metres, but this tiny house shaped from straw bale leaves a big impression on its guests.
Crafted with love from top to bottom, the lime-plastered walls evoke the feeling of a cocoon, making it ideal for chilly autumn nights. The house is decked out with thoughtful textures and bespoke furnishings, while the outdoor fire-pit provides the perfect spot to admire Mount Ruapehu’s impressive summit rising in the distance.
The inimitable dwelling is an ideal base on any road trip through the scenic Ruapehu District, which lies in the heart of New Zealand’s North Island. From here, Ruapehu’s many charms — from alpine crossings, mountain biking trails, a wide range of hikes and even a gondola to take in all the region’s impressive natural beauty from the sky — are easily accessible.
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The awe-inspiring surrounds of Queenstown are luxurious enough, but a stay at the Gibbston Valley Lodge & Spa will add even more extravagance to your adventure.
Overlooking an organic Pinot Noir vineyard, 24 villas feature private decks, sunny courtyards and boundless views of the picturesque landscape.
Incredible relaxation awaits across the rest of the property, with a fully kitted spa offering rejuvenating treatments and a high-end restaurant serving seasonal cuisine. The lodge’s spa was voted New Zealand’s Best Resort Spa in the 2024 World Spa Awards for the fifth time running and is open to day guests too.
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You don’t have to travel far from the city to find a luxury getaway amid nature.
Enveloped by pristine native forest in Kawakawa Bay – less than an hour’s drive from Auckland – you’ll discover three cabins by Unyoked designed for peace and tranquillity.
Tucked alongside a charming stream, breathe in the fresh air from your wood-fired outdoor tub and immerse yourself in the serene surroundings. The location is home to native birdlife and should you choose to leave your cabin of calm, some of Auckland’s best beaches with picturesque scenery and comfortable walking paths can be found close by in Kawakawa Bay.
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Nestled on 650 acres amid the Southern Alps and just a short drive from Queenstown, Arrowtown’s Millbrook Resort is a sprawling five-star stay with opulence around every corner.
Featuring stunning suites, homes and retreats, top-notch amenities combine with endlessly peaceful surroundings.
Just some of the highlights are five on-site dining venues, including an award-winning Japanese restaurant, and two 18-hole golf courses in a natural alpine amphitheatre. Alongside a serene spa and a raft of incredible experiences, Millbrook is as extravagant as it sounds.
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Just 15 minutes from Wānaka, Lake Hāwea Station offers visitors an authentic farm experience while they stay on-site.
The farm has four accommodation options available: the three-bedroom glass-walled Lake House, the studio-like Little L tiny house (replete with a miniature library), the simple two-bedroom Homespur cottage and the historic Packhouse cottage, which sleeps six. All boast stellar lake views, outdoor fire pits, hot tubs and outdoor dining.
Owners Jussie and Geoff Ross received recognition for their renovation and transformation of the 16,000-acre property after they purchased it in 2018. They were also acknowledged for the farm’s focus on animal welfare practices, enhanced biodiversity and their work to slow climate change — including the planting of more than 100,000 native trees.
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When you next visit the North Island, step into the warmth of Wai Ariki Hot Springs & Spa, an award-winning and Māori-owned wellness destination that embodies manaakitanga, the renowned Māori value of welcoming and caring for manuhiri (visitors).
Not only is this lavish venue perfect for a winter escape, it also provides an unforgettable opportunity to experience the legacy and practices of local Māori culture. The luxurious spa celebrates Māori traditions and utilises Ngāti Whakaue healing practices to create an experience rich in connection and cultural immersion.
Across thermal pools, a geothermal mud lounge, soothing massages and spa treatments, you’ll enjoy a restorative journey through numerous multi-sensory experiences.
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Deep within Whanganui National Park, Blue Duck Station offers a serene departure from the stresses of modern life.
Positioned on the banks of the Whanganui and Retaruke rivers, self-contained lodges, houses and bush cabins provide the ideal base for the property’s adventure activities.
From peaceful horse riding and kayaking expeditions to bushwhacking 4WD safaris and jet-boating voyages, explore this outdoor playground and relish the lack of mobile signal.
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Recharge in the wilderness among the trees at this eco-friendly luxury retreat situated in the heart of the Te Wāhipounamu World Heritage area.
One of the world’s largest International Dark Sky Reserves is located within Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, where stargazing without any light pollution is one of the region’s highlights. Winter is one of the best times of the year to visit the region, with skies getting dark early and the alpine terrain of the region at its prime.
Created to be a place of beauty, peace, privacy and rest, the award-winning Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat features a range of beautiful rooms overlooking Lake Pukaki and activities including yoga, massages and forest bathing on the premises. Additional amenities include hot tubs, an astroturf tennis court and bike rentals.
Breakfast provisions and a three-course dinner made with vegetables from the homestead garden are part of the deal, too.
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Just a 40-minute ferry ride from Auckland, the lush paradise of Waiheke Island awaits. Flanked by picturesque vineyards and white-sand beaches, Omana Luxury Villa makes the most of this breathtaking location.
Featuring four hilltop villas with mind-blowing views, this secluded stay offers private beach access and in-room massages that take your relaxation to the next level.
Relish in a little Mediterranean bliss among the beautiful vineyards, olive groves and beaches that adorn Waiheke Island. To pass the time, there are countless options to choose between: meandering the island’s many trails that cover an array of landscapes from cliff tops to native forest, picnicking in the sun or going for a paddle in a kayak are all perfect in the wintertime.
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Find total relaxation surrounded by views of Lake Tekapo and the Two Thumb mountain range in one of the three hot pools sculpted into the shapes of nearby Lake Ōhau, Pukaki and Tekapo. The pools come with various features to help you relax including massage jets, fountains and, of course, incredible views.
At night, take in the stars while you go for a soak. Look through powerful telescopes and hear celestial myths from cultures around the world before relaxing in the springs on a floating hammock beneath the starry sky.
There’s also a day spa on-site if you need some further R&R. There are four treatment rooms and a range of packages covering face care, relaxation massage, pedicures and manicures. Combine a treatment with a pool pass and you’ll be floating on cloud nine.
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Relax, get back in touch with nature and sleep among the trees at Rainforest Retreat. Located in the heart of Franz Josef Village, the retreat offers options from log cabins to raised tree huts to luxe lodges, and all are set against a rainforest canopy.
Cosy wooden tree huts feature large private decks, kitchens and ensuite bathrooms, while the luxe treehouses include an indulgent spa to sink into and reach peak relaxation.
It’s the perfect spot to be based out of for easy access to surrounding adventures along the West Coast.
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On the outskirts of Te Anau, the Fiordland Eco-Retreat is a striking stay with panoramic views of the dreamy surrounding landscape.
Here, you’ll enjoy a stunning vantage point overlooking Lake Te Anau and the peaks of the Fiordland National Park. Yet creature comforts haven’t been forgotten.
The temperatures might be low, but a private hot tub is ideal for admiring the night sky. Meanwhile, central heating makes this satisfying space even more cosy.
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Set in the foothills of the Ben Ōhau Range, Skylark Cabin is a mesmerising tiny home that reflects its stunning location.
Designed for two guests, every aspect of this architectural space has been carefully considered, with a private outdoor hot tub, log fire and deck maximising your winter stay.
Best of all, the cosy bedroom features an overhead skylight, ideally positioned so you can admire the dazzling night sky in pure comfort.
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The snow-capped mountains of Glenorchy are ripe for an ultra-sustainable stay like The Headwaters Eco Lodge.
Going far beyond solar panels, the design combines passive heating, cooling and ventilation methods to support the region’s regenerative future.
Across welcoming chalets, guests will discover a range of earth-friendly amenities while enjoying picturesque views of the nearby mountainside.
Book a horse riding tour, go on a guided trek and experience garden-to-table cuisine where minimal impact is the mantra.
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Set on three acres of hillside overlooking Lake Wakatipu, The Sherwood has created an environment that allows guests to connect intimately with nature. It also brings a whole new meaning to the phrase, package deal.
Enjoy meals made with produce sourced from the retreat’s kitchen garden, orchard or one of the surrounding farms. The Sherwood’s own veggie garden operates under organic principles, with produce frequently changing with the shorter-than-usual growing seasons, owing to the farm’s southerly location.
You need not even leave your lodgings with plenty to do over the course of a day. Start the day with yoga or meditation, catch live music and sleep in luxurious apartments and studios.
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Located just one hour from the heart of Auckland on the pristine cliff tops above picturesque Karioitahi Beach, Castaways Resort is a destination to delight your senses no matter how long your visit is.
Take in the sunset from the resort’s restaurant, which occupies a prime vantage point on New Zealand’s west coast for unspoiled panoramic views over the Tasman Sea, while dining on the best of New Zealand’s local produce.
For a reprieve from life’s stressors, book in at Bersantai Day Spa, the resort’s on-site day spa. Kickstart the relaxation with a soak in the outdoor stone baths, before indulging in one of the spa’s many treatments.
Maximise the Castaways experience by staying in one of the resort’s seaview accomodation options. The villas, chalets and studios have varying amenities depending on the lodging, but the ocean is never far.
There’s also the option to take part in one of the many activities the resort offers, with walks to join, as well as five golf courses right around the resort’s corner.
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Occupying a prime position overlooking Matauwhi Bay, the Arcadia Lodge is a historic B&B that comes to life in the springtime warmth.
Now over a hundred years old, this regional icon presents five wonderfully presented suites alongside a self-contained cottage. As you might expect, the gourmet breakfast is a culinary delight, with many ingredients grown in the cottage garden. From this scenic spot, you’re ideally located to explore numerous nearby wineries and beaches.
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Cross Hill Lodge & Domes is found in the high country setting of Glen Dene Station in Lake Hāwea.
The six geodesic Pacific Domes are said to be the first permanent structures of their kind in the country. The 40sqm domes feature king-sized beds, while floor-to-ceiling windows let in views of light pollution-free night skies and picturesque views across the park-like surroundings.
Each dome comes equipped with its own small kitchenette, contemporary bathroom, climate-controlled gas fire and heat pump and private deck, while soft furnishings include plush sheepskins and woollen blankets.
Unwind with a massage or enjoy some quiet time in the outdoor wood-fired hot tub at the lodge. Dinner and breakfast is provided with most of the packages and guests can choose from a range of meal options — including paddock-to-plate cuisine and degustation experiences with local wines.
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Experience boundless rural comfort amid the peaceful landscapes of Te Karaka Station & Lodge, located less than 95km from Auckland.
Inside, guest rooms feature modern, rustic decor inspired by the surrounding scenery and indigenous art.
Outside, you can make the most of a heated spa, lawn games, and terraces and verandahs offering gorgeous views.
The fine dining restaurant is also impressive, with fresh farm-to-table ingredients combined with premium local cuts of beef and lamb.
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Auckland’s Hotel Britomart was New Zealand’s first 5-Green Star hotel (a mark of sustainability during the build and the use of eco-friendly materials) when it opened and continues to offer guests an innovative stay even today. For travellers wanting not just to minimise the impact of their travel, but to actively make a positive impact on their destination, the hotel now offers a regenerative travel experience called Nourishing Nature.
No matter the type of trip you’re planning, each of the 99 rooms is designed for tranquil escapism. Guest rooms all come with built-in sofas, hand-made ceramics and minibars full of locally sourced treats.
When you’re feeling peckish, enjoy a meal at the in-house restaurant, Kingi, which heroes sustainably caught seafood. Then, pick a book from their mini library, order up some local New Zealand wine, and you have just found your new happy place.
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An hour north of Wellington, Greytown’s Victorian-era buildings, quaint shops and leafy streets make for a charming springtime getaway.
When you need suitably rustic accommodation to match, The White Swan delivers a warm and cosy ambience alongside outstanding cuisine celebrating the region’s top makers and producers.
In addition to 13 boutique suites and garden rooms, this beloved country hotel presents three dining options, from laid-back gastropub vibes to the more formal Captain’s Dining Room.
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Set between native bushland and a concealed inlet, the Bay of Many Coves Resort offers genuine privacy and seclusion.
Accessible only by boat or air, this luxury five-star property rests on a picturesque spot amid the famed Marlborough Sounds. As indulgent as you’d expect, sophisticated suites and apartments offer stellar coastal views and relaxed intimacy far from the city.
The resort’s on-site wellness destination, Miritu Day Spa, offers rejuvenating treatments for men and women using top notch local products and is a perfect way for day guests to experience the natural surroundings of the resort without needing to stay overnight.
Spring is a wonderful time to visit, as a stroll along the Queen Charlotte Track traces coves and ridges bursting with native forest and vibrant florals.
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Immerse yourself in the indigenous beech forests of New Zealand at the enchanting Maruia River Retreat. Located within a 500-acre native beech forest in the sunny Nelson Tasman region, the sustainable retreat offers an enchanting experience for travellers looking to get away from it all.
To complement this wonderful landscape, the resort offers myriad relaxing activities, from daily yoga sessions to rejuvenating sessions in outdoor hot tubs and saunas. Guests can also explore the property’s extensive network of trails and even spot some native wildlife before heading back to one of seven luxury villas spread along a peaceful river.
Meanwhile, a high-end kitchen operates on a locavore philosophy, where nourishment and seasonal ingredients come first.
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Spend the night perched above the Kahutara River in a private glasshouse 20 minutes inland from Kaikōura, set on 200 acres of farmland and native bush.
Turn off and get back in touch with nature inside your own PurePod, made of heavy duty glass on all sides — floor, ceiling and even the walls of the shower.
From your deck, your bed and even your shower, you’ll have views of the foothills, the river and the trees. Go exploring or stay put, whatever you desire.
There’s no phone coverage, so you’ll be free from all constraints and can relax with a book, check out the stars through the telescope or play one of the games provided.
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Forming part of the Te Matatiki Toi Ora The Arts Centre – Christchurch’s premier creative precinct – The Observatory Hotel links modern design with historic luxury in an unbeatable location that’s ideal for exploring everything on offer in Christchurch.
Each of the 33 guest rooms is individually styled, with local creatives and designers responsible for the vibrant art, fittings and decor. Guests will also find a plush drawing room housed in a former library.
Order a glass of bubbly or beer to go with a fascinating book plucked from the shelves.
With extraordinary experiences year-round, discover when New Zealand is best for you. Find your very own Aotearoa New Zealand here.
