Comprised of rolling hillsides, dramatic mountain ranges and pristine coastlines, New Zealand is a scenic wonderland, boasting some of the most astonishing landscapes in the world. It’s no surprise then that it’s home to a plethora of unique accommodation options. From luxurious lodges and off-the-grid glamping getaways to hillside hamlets and idyllic island escapes, it’s not hard to find somewhere spectacular to rest your head. Here’s our top picks to inspire your next journey (warning: may invoke extreme wanderlust!).
Te Tuhi Dome, Taupō
For a glamping experience a little different than the rest, pay a visit to Te Tuhi Dome – a glorious geodesic structure offering endless, uninterrupted vistas of peaceful paddocks, lush native bush and tranquil Lake Taupō below. Switch off and relax by the fire, rustle up a cheese platter, grab a glass of wine, and soak up the silence of the glittering night sky from the outdoor bathtub.
The Hermitage Hotel, Mt Cook
For unbeatable views of Aoraki Mount Cook, New Zealand’s tallest mountain, look no further than The Hermitage Hotel. Nestled amongst the supremely stunning backdrop of the Southern Alps, the hotel provides the perfect, cosy base for exploring the World Heritage area, with fine-dining options and world-class adventure activities right on your doorstep.
Eagles Nest, Bay of Islands
If you want to live like a celebrity (and have the budget to do so) then why not book an ultra-bougie stay at Eagles Nest. Sitting on a private peninsula overlooking the beautiful Bay of Islands, the contemporary retreat consists of five luxurious villas. With private chefs, spa treatments, and infinity pools it’s easy to see why this is a secret escape for A-listers.
Hapuku Lodge & Tree Houses, Kaikoura
Sleep high amongst the treetops in this South Island retreat, located just north of Kaikoura. Designed by a family of architects, Hapuku Lodge offers a unique blend of eco-friendly innovation and luxury, with its tree house suites being the main attraction. Perched amongst a canopy of native trees, the treehouses feature a fireplace, a jacuzzi, and a mini bar, so you can take watch the sun set over the horizon with a G&T in hand.
Slipper Island, Coromandel Peninsula
Here’s your chance to experience your own private island paradise. Located 3 kilometres off the Coromandel coast is the privately owned, 224-hectare Slipper Island. The island’s resort offers a selection of accommodation options – from two-bedroom villas to luxe glamping tents, with empty, white-sand beaches and clear-blue waters only a few steps away. Who needs the Maldives?!
Milford Mariner, Milford Sound
Spend a night onboard the Milford Mariner and wake up in a UNESCO World Heritage Site, surrounded by the natural beauty of Milford Sound – described by Rudyard Kipling as one of the wonders of the world. Keep a look out for wildlife as you sail past rugged mountain tops, winding inlets and plunging glacial waterfalls, before settling in for a 3-course dinner and a night of stargazing.
Underhill Valley, Waikato
Calling all Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit fans: transport yourself to a scene straight out of Middle Earth in these enchanting, adults-only glamping sites, built into the Waikato hillside. Hand-crafted with native timbers and ironwork, the caves come complete with an outdoor bathtub overlooking picturesque farmland. Bliss.
Minaret Station, Wanaka
Not your average bed and breakfast, Minaret Station offers one of Wanaka’s most exclusive accommodation experiences. Sitting sky-high, the only way to access this boutique mountain lodge is by helicopter. Each of the elegant chalets come with a plush, King-sized bed, an in-deck hot tub, and elevated alpine views.
How many of these cool accommodation spots are on your bucket list now? Pack your bags and come and explore New Zealand on a Globus or Cosmos tour!
