Where should I go and what should I do in New Zealand?
Private Helicopter Landings on Glaciers — Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers deliver ice-time via scenic helicopter. Land on untouched ice with views that rival the Alps, then return to a luxury lodge with a wine list to match.
Championship Golf in Cinematic Settings — Kauri Cliffs, Cape Kidnappers, and Millbrook Resort offer fairways framed by alpine peaks and Pacific clifftops. Combine rounds with private transfers, fine dining, and tailored lodge experiences that US courses simply can't rival.
World-Class Wine Tasting with Winemakers — Marlborough's 168+ wineries and Central Otago Pinot Noir estates let guests meet producers directly. Exclusive tastings paired with Michelin-caliber regional cuisine create memories no California tour can match.
Milford Sound & Fiordland's Untouched Wilderness — Dramatic fjords, cascading waterfalls, and rainforest-clad cliffs accessed by private boat or scenic flight. The landscape surprises even image-saturated travelers who've seen it a hundred times online.
Luxury in True Solitude — Boutique lodges in Queenstown, Wanaka, and remote high-country settings deliver five-star comfort without crowds. Space, pristine scenery, and authentic Maori cultural experiences create the escape luxury travelers increasingly crave.
When should I go to New Zealand?
March–May (Autumn) — Mild temps, fewer crowds, autumn color in Central Otago vineyards, high-country roads open
November–April (Summer/Autumn) — Warmest, most stable weather; peak season with higher crowds
What do I need to know for a trip to New Zealand?
Passport Required & Valid — Must be valid for 3+ months beyond your travel dates.
Drive on the left— Roads are well-maintained, but left-side driving takes adjustment. Take it slow first day; consider hiring a driver for scenic routes if uncomfortable
Currency is NZD — Credit cards widely accepted in cities; cash helpful for rural areas, small galleries, and some lodges. ATMs abundant in larger towns
Book Early — Luxury lodges, helicopter tours, and premium accommodations book 3–6 months ahead, especially March–May
Cook Strait Crossing is Worth It — 3.5-hour ferry between islands is a signature experience; don't fly it just to save time
Respect Maori Culture — Sacred sites and Pueblo lands are living communities. Book tours with licensed guides; photography often restricted at cultural sites
Welcome to The Marlborough, where tranquility and contemporary design combine to create relaxed elegance. Our boutique hotel in the heart of Marlborough vineyards offers a unique and intimate accommodation experience.
Overlooking Waitematā Harbour, Park Hyatt Auckland is a sophisticated, waterfront residence that enriches guests with authentic and intimate experiences. Paying tribute to the local culture, the hotel is inspired by the Maori wharenui (house). Just as the wharenui is fundamental to Maori life and the beating heart of New Zealand's indigenous culture, the hotel is a place of gathering that brings families, communities and tribes together in Auckland, a welcoming haven to locals and visitors alike. Stylish and spacious guest rooms incorporate Maori accents, such as custom designed tukutuku panels and rugs, made from New Zealand wool.
Hapuku Lodge & Tree Houses is a luxurious & contemporary Luxury Lodge north of the eco-marine town of Kaikoura. Five luxury tree houses are nested 30 feet amongst a native Kanuka grove plus, four luxury lodge suites and Premium Olive House Cottage. Large yawning windows open Kaikoura’s stately mountains and surf-washed Pacific coastline. Each
A wonderfully secluded luxury escape. Solitaire Lodge enjoys breathtaking views over Lake Tarawera, with lush natural bush and volcanic landscape backdrop. Styled with comfort in mind, all 9 luxurious suites feature panoramic views of the glassy lake and magnificent volcano through grand picture windows.
Discover Auckland, a jewel set between two sparkling harbours. At once, both cosmopolitan and casual. This premier city of the South Pacific will surprise and delight. Enjoy international eateries, eclectic shopping, local culture and outdoor adventure. Board a ferry, climb a volcano or indulge in a carefree afternoon of food and wine on an island before returning to your home away from home at the 5-star Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour.
Nestled amidst rugged snow capped peaks of the Southern Alps on the shores of Lake Wakatipu is New Zealand’s finest Lodge – Blanket Bay. Here we celebrate the art of pure relaxation.
Surrounded by idyllic dewy meadows and shrouded by a veil of blue skies, Millbrook is a resort designed to embody the relaxed New Zealand country lifestyle...
Situated in the vibrant heart of New Zealand's largest city, JW Marriott Auckland's attention to detail and trademark, personalized hospitality attracts discerning guests from around the globe.
Guests are joined by their guide each evening making for lots of lively, convivial conversation. Sharing stories with fellow adventurers is often the catalyst for long term friendships.
From its exterior of hand-made bricks to its beautifully timber-lined rooms, The Hotel Britomart does detail like nobody else. Plus, the best of downtown waterfront Auckland is just outside your front door.
Once a humble goldrush town, Queenstown has emerged as a radiant gem of adventure, culture and hospitality. Set against the dramatic backdrop of the Southern Alps, Queenstown is not only renowned for its winter sports and thrill-fuelled pursuits, but also the perfect base for exploring the region’s vineyards, walking trails and tranquil landscapes.
Among the beautiful rolling hills of New Zealand's high country and the banks of the graceful Rakaia River, Terrace Downs sweeps you away to a pristine land...
The Rotorua region captures the true magic of New Zealand, and the same applies to Hamurana Lodge, where luxurious amenities softly blend with the personal touch of a country lodge...
The Best of New Zealand: Adventure, Fiordland, and Luxury at the Edge of the World
New Zealand is a long way from everywhere. That’s kind of the point. The travelers who make the journey arrive in a place that feels genuinely different from anywhere else on earth.
The country is made up of two main islands that contain rainforests, glaciers, volcanic plateaus, and fjords. Queenstown is dubbed the adventure capital of the world for good reason, but don’t let an adrenaline-first attitude undersell it to the luxury traveler.
On the shores of Lake Wakatipu by the dramatic peaks of the Remarkables mountain range, Queenstown is also a serious food destination and home to some of New Zealand’s best hotels. Private helicopter transfers to Milford Sound, one of the planet’s most spectacular fjords, are among the region’s most compelling luxury experiences.
The Central Otago wine region produces Pinot Noir of international standing. Private cellar-door experiences and winery stays offer a refined counterpoint to the adrenaline-driven reputation.
The best luxury lodges and resorts in New Zealand are Relais & Châteaux-caliber properties set in genuinely remote landscapes. The kind where waking up and looking out the window is itself an event.