Over the ditch
Dust off the passport, New Zealand is open for luxury travel.
13 April 2021
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Those of us who have been suffering from on-the-ground-syndrome can soon take to the cloudy skies for the ultimate in a fluffy adventure in the land of the long white cloud.
New Zealand PM, Jacinda Ardern has announced that from April 18 at 11.59pm, Australians can travel to our sister ‘state’ quarantine-free.
There is the DFAT proviso though: “Outbreaks could cause either Australia’s or New Zealand’s borders to close at any time, so travellers should be prepared with a back-up plan should restrictions arise”.
New Zealand can lay claim to some of the most refined global accommodation around, from divine lodges to glam hotels, as well as some of the most exclusive private villas. So, for up to a mere $NZ34,000 per night, you can be breathing some international air and “luxing” it up in your own private villa.
Many offer additional services such as private chefs, local guides and knowledgeable staff to immerse you into New Zealand’s best authentic luxury experiences.
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Lodge at the Hills, Queenstown
Set in a glacial valley on 500 acres and surrounded by snow capped mountains, the Lodge at the Hills is pure indulgence. From grand entrances and voids to intimate nooks, and private sitting rooms in the suites, Lodge at The Hills is an architectural masterpiece.
Each of the six bedroom suites is individual in design and luxurious furnishings. They have their own sitting area with gas fire, ensuite with soak tub and picture-perfect views. The outstanding outdoor facilities include a championship sized grass tennis court, heated infinity swimming pool, sauna and spa. Private rentals only for you or for you and 11 guests. $NZ33,000 – $NZ38,000 per night.
Omaru Bay, Waiheke Island
Waiheke Island is often referred to as the Hamptons of the North Island. It’s just 35 minutes from Auckland where you can escape the stress of the city and be immediately amongst the calm respite of island life.
Omaru Bay is on the eastern side of the island. Nestled into the hillside with a north east facing aspect, this luxury hideaway offers an eight-metre infinity pool suspended in the air, expansive decks drenched in sunlight and comfortable interiors.
Split over two levels, there is one king bedroom with ensuite, five split king bedrooms – four with ensuites and one with a shared bathroom and one room with three bunk beds. Great for families or a corporate retreat. Priced around $NZ21,000 – $34,000 per night.
The Dacha, Wanaka
Lake Wanaka is the backdrop to this stunning private residence. The living area of The Dacha main lodge offers 177-square-metres of living area featuring a soaring 4.8-metre vaulted ceiling and clerestory.
The lounge has an impressive schist clad fireplace which in winter casts an ambient glow while the mountains dominate the horizon across the lake. A perfect environment for guests to relax and share stories with a drink in hand by firelight.
In summer the wall of glass bi-fold doors can be opened, allowing the inside of the home to flow seamlessly out onto the large outside deck giving stunning 180 degree views of Lake Wanaka and the mountains beyond. $NZ8,000 – $11,500 per night.
Your personal chef is available to prepare breakfast using local organic produce, while your personal concierge can help plan another day in paradise. Endless walking trails, mountain climbs, water sports, skiing, heli-adventures and wine tours are just the tip of the iceberg.
Aurum, Wanaka
This luxury home offers an unimpeded view of Lake Wanaka and the Southern Alps. Floor to ceiling glass doors open to an expansive, sun drenched deck with a seasonal view.
Aurum is a three-bedroom, three bathroom ultra-modern home maximises the ever-changing view. Complete with a fully equipped kitchen, barbeque, luxurious furnishings and fine New Zealand art this property provides the ideal setting to relax with friends and family. $NZ2,650 per night.
Omaio
Don’t forget your boule for a spot of pétanque or perhaps a game of tennis is more your thing. A contemporary home, Omaio offers a court and a pétanque pitch with private trails around the wetlands and huge grounds for the family to play.
This luxury Queenstown accommodation offering promises to delight – with views towards Coronet Peak, The Remarkables and Cardrona, guests can enjoy all day sunshine in this bright north facing home.
Coronet Peak Ski area is just a short 15-minute drive away and if you are visiting Queenstown for a winter holiday, you can simply pull back the curtains each morning to check the snow.
In the summer months, enjoy watching paragliders descend over the Wakatipu Basin, as you enjoy a glass of local Pinot Noir next to the outdoor fireplace. NZD $ 1,850 – NZD $ 2,500.
Eichardt’s
Eichardt’s Private Hotel has been a landmark in Queenstown for over 150 years. There is luxury accommodation aplenty consisting of seven suites, four comfortably appointed Lakefront Apartments, The Residence and The Penthouse.
Straight to the top we say and in a private lift sounds fine. This new wing offers uninterrupted views across Lake Wakatipu to the mountains beyond. With 240-metres-square of spacious living areas, indoor and outdoor kitchens, two large bedrooms, marble bathrooms, sauna, spa and Queenstown’s largest private terrace, The Penthouse is the ultimate in luxury accommodation.
Exquisitely designed you will want for nothing. Sauna? Tick Kitchen with Gaggenau and Sub Zero appliances tick Pool? Tick Fireplace tick.
You’ll never want to leave, however if you do, you won’t have to go far. There is a private sanctuary in the Vault Spa for personalised restorative therapies. And for a unique cruise try “Pacific Jemm”, Eichardt’s 80-foot ‘Falcon-S’ luxury yacht. Penthouse approx. $NZ10,000 per night.
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Architecture for voyagers
