Luxury accommodations in New Zealand
I had the privilege of revisiting Aotearoa as the country finally resumed traveling abroad. A country of long white clouds. This is a summary of the extravagant stays that have been tried and errored throughout New Zealand.
Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Port
Our journey begins in Auckland, the country’s largest city, where the pinnacle of all stays is Sofitel Auckland. Located in a prime location along Viaduct Harbor, the hotel offers a beautiful sea location with stunning views of the city skyline. Smooth glass corridors connect the spaces and always reflect the adjacent harbor and courtyard ponds. The selective sliver of gold is glossy.
The wellness areas such as the gym, spa, pool and jacuzzi are arranged in a chic French style with smooth lines and modern tiled frescoes. In the evening, the Sabrage Bar offers a fascinating taste, and La Maree offers a fresh taste with the undercurrent of French chic. Their sustainable sourcing New Zealand quality cuts are appetizing – Speckle Park Scotch Fillet was the highlight of my entire trip. If you’ve added access to Club Millésime, enjoy complimentary drinks and canapés. Of course, you can also spend the day luxuriously in a comfortable room overlooking the harbor view (be sure to choose the Luxury Marina View Room).
As you explore the city, start your day at the historic Perhomestead and its associated gardens and try the famous chef Sammaneling’s Eggs Benedict at our in-house café. There are more than 50 volcanoes in the city and its suburbs, one of which is Mount Eden, a short but rewarding walk to the summit. Zingi Restaurant is a fashionable restaurant located in downtown Britomart Hotel.
Mudbrick, Waiheke
Waking up and shaking opens the doors of a luxurious cottage to the azure waters and brilliant vines, making you even more attractive on the island. Within 30 minutes by ferry, you’ll reach Waiheke Island, a blend of boats, beaches and Bordeaux. The hills are covered with vineyards with about 20 estates, one of the most established of Mudbricks.
There are a variety of accommodations, and “Merlot” is my choice. The charming and luxurious two-bedroom cottage is located in the estate’s private corner, always reminiscent of the unique location of the island and bay with the skyline from the bedroom, lounge and even hot tubs. Seen in the distance of Auckland.
And when you’re ready, you’ll walk through the hedges and walk to premium wine tastings and restaurants in just one minute. Get ready to be shipped to Wine Heaven on a wine flight that includes Francesca. Probably the most delicious Chardonnay I have ever tasted.
George Hotel
Well recovered from the catastrophic earthquake of a century ago, Christchurch has been working hard to establish itself as a cozy place. Modeled after Oxford, England, you’ll definitely notice the similarities in the town. Perhaps the most beautiful part of the town is Hagley Park, which offers 407 acres of green space. Sitting on the edge of the park is the George Hotel.
Named after Sir George Seymour, one of the first ships to arrive in Canterbury in 1850, George is Christchurch’s only five-star boutique hotel. The on-site 50 bistro offers an unforgettable dining experience. Probably the best food in the city and we are carefully considering procuring the best local ingredients. Try Luminaram, a New Zealand boutique. The takeaway “George Bear” will be given to all guests on the first night’s turndown and will forever remind you of Christchurch’s luxurious home base.
“Panding on the Avon” offers a calm and traditional way to explore the river. Or walk around using George’s free bike. Eat delicious drums at The Lastword and then find a chic bar or restaurant at The Terrace.
Rainforest Retreat
It’s almost a Jurassic Park experience, and of course there are no killer dinosaurs. Snow-capped mountains rise high and under a lush forest of ferns. This is an almost mythical setting for a rainforest hideaway on the west coast. The property is a 1-minute walk from the village of Franz Josef. It meanders through nearby valleys and is named after the iconic glacier, the fourth largest glacier in the country.
Rainforest Retreat offers accommodation for all budgets, with the top pops being the Deluxe Spa Tree-House. The two bedrooms are adjacent to the central lounge, which is connected to a well-stocked kitchen. When booking a unit, number 11 is probably one of the most remote locations, so please submit your request if possible. Once you’re calm, enjoy the view from the luxurious private hot tub. Oh, and did I say the minibar is free?
Book a helicopter flip-up on the helicopter line, as glaciers are the real heroes of the show. This includes scenic flights and glacier landings. There is also a helicopter hike for those seeking more adrenaline. If the weather is nice, consider a drive to the nearby Fox Glacier settlement and visit the lake. There is a picture of the mountains reflected in the lake that seems to be drooling.
Martinborough Hotel
With plenty of wine production on both islands, why not go for one of the most quaint wines? Martin Borrow is located in Wairarapa, an hour away and separated from Wellington by the Limtaka Mountains. The Martinborough Hotel is the oldest, continuously operated hotel in the country that has welcomed guests since 1882. The rooms have been elegantly refurbished and have several openings on the upper wraparound balcony of the Victorian building. Evening descent.
The lower floors act as Union Square Bistro and Bar, serving chic food and drinks, as well as home breakfast. Wine lovers can enjoy the fact that many boutique wineries are within walking distance of the hotel, or ride a bike from Green Jersey to explore. The main plants are Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir. Moy Hill, Luna, and Palliser all offer an informative tasting experience.
Cottage 103
If you’re on a romantic vacation and have your own rental privacy, Cottage 103 on the Kapiti Coast of the North Island may be what you’re looking for. The house is spacious and stylishly appointed for discerning hobbyists. Located on countless farmlands, the closest neighbors are donkeys, horses and sheep. Quite common in New Zealand home rentals – or Bach It features an outdoor hot tub, as it is called locally. Cottage 103 lifts the bar in a natural wood tub overlooking the valley, with overhead string lights creating a special atmosphere.
You may want to stay in the cocoon at your small country shelter, but when you’re ready to go out and explore, a visit to Salt and Wood BQ is a must-see. Locals enjoy the facility’s craft beer and the famous dirty fries. Then reduce calories along Waikanae Beach-remember the warm jacket.
