Every year, I have the privilege of spending a month in New Zealand with family and always seize the chance to scout out luxurious new staycations in the land of the Long White Cloud. Here are five of my current favourites to add to the bucket list.
InterContinental Wellington
In the heart of the capital city, the InterContinental is one of its iconic 5-star hotels and has been a firm favourite of mine for years. The recently refurbished rooms provide every creature comfort – from our 9th-floor harbour-view room, we could observe the people, weather, and cityscapes of Wellington. Furthermore, the hotel features the city’s largest indoor heated pool, complete with a jacuzzi, sauna, and steam bath; all perfect for downtime between urban explorations.
The InterContinental also offers enviable dining options in New Zealand’s capital city. First GPO is the hotel’s beautiful dining space where breakfast buffets and à la carte dinner options are served. We opted for the mixed grill to share – a smorgasbord of delicious lamb rack, ribeye, eye fillet, grilled vegetables, steak butter, and sauce. An unmissable experience is High Tea served in the hotel’s lobby. Sitting next to the fireplace, we eagerly awaited our Buzzy Bee Kiwiana Afternoon Tea – featuring a mix of Kiwi favourites – along with hot drinks and tea to accompany.
The Enchanted Retreat, Havelock North
Enchanted and retreat are two perfectly poised words to describe this getaway. Tucked away in the leafy suburbs of Havelock North, the tent is reminiscent of some of South Africa’s most luxurious rental camps – no wonder it was imported from South Africa. The smart tent features voice and tablet control for the temperature, blinds, music, and lights. With both air conditioning and an indoor fireplace, it creates an ambience designed for cosy downtime. The fully equipped kitchen is cleverly clad in black and wood and comes with welcome chocolates and a bottle of local vino.
Stepping outside, a wrap-around balcony offers generous views of both forest and valley. In the garden, there’s a barbecue and a permanently heated hot tub to complete the glamping experience. If you’re tempted to venture out and explore, the drive to Te Mata Peak is only 10 minutes – or, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can park below and walk up. Of course, you can return to your forest sanctuary, where a hot tub and glass of wine await.
Lightning Ridge Views, Waimarama
Desiring a beach stay, I discovered Lightning Ridge views on the local Bookabach website – and soon we were off to Waimarama, a secluded beach village a short drive from the North Island’s Napier and Hastings. From the dreamy lounge of the modern home, the floor-to-ceiling glass walls revealed a glimpse of the Cape Kidnappers’ headland at the southeastern extremity of Hawke’s Bay, with Bare Island directly in front.
Three bedrooms offer plush accommodation for up to six guests, with a log fire providing warmth if necessary in the central lounge. This luxury home beckons for relaxation, whether you’re lounging on a bean bag soaking up the sun on the veranda or putting your feet up in the backyard courtyard next to the fireplace. For day outings, the Craggy Range wine estate is a 20-minute drive away, and the Art Deco town of Napier is a 45-minute drive.
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Hulbert House, Queenstown
Just a short five-minute stroll from the hustle and bustle of downtown Queenstown, Hulbert House is a precious historical gem that offers a luxury experience par excellence. The historical homestead, built in 1888, is now a boutique lodge-style hotel featuring an intimate oasis with only seven rooms, including one accessible queen studio. The unique and unforgettable Palm Lounge, a veranda that invites you to unwind on a summer evening while marvelling at the stunning views with a glass of Central Otago wine, encourages guests to slow down and take a moment.
The attentive team is the heart of Hulbert House. Whether they are serving a cocktail with your canapés in the evening, making restaurant recommendations, or greeting you in the morning with freshly brewed coffee and a delicious breakfast, their dedication shines through! A highly recommended outing is a trip to Gibbston Valley for a wine tour or a round of golf at one of the seven courses in the region. Upon your return, the team will set up an indulgent bath butler experience or prepare our indulgent adult ice cream sundae – putting into practice manaakitanga – Māori for hospitality.
Ngā Pari, Wairarapa
For vinophiles, a stay on a wine estate is essential. While Martinborough may be the golden child of Wairarapa’s wine towns, there are magnificent estates scattered around. Ngā Pari is a superb example of showcasing New Zealand’s premium New World Wine and features a boutique bed and breakfast. True to the ‘boutique is best’ philosophy, there are only three rooms situated in the wings of the spacious home. Guests have access to a central lounge, courtyard, hot tub, and manicured garden. Additionally, there are 10 acres of vineyards available for exploration.
Included in your stay is a wine tasting and a bottle of wine of your choice. And speaking of wines, Ngā Pari focuses on Chardonnay and Pinot Noir (which made this Burgundy fan most happy) and includes a brand-new bubbly. Current owners Pete and Karen took over the estate and vineyards in 2016 and have already released five vintages. Make sure to take home a bottle – the gorgeous label cleverly depicts the layers of landscapes you’ll admire from the scenic estate.
Jared Ruttenberg
Jared Ruttenberg is a travel writer from Cape Town, South Africa. He enjoys connecting people and experiences through words, images and social media.
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