The 5 best luxury NZ staycations to celebrate a special occasion

Although there’s limited travel around the globe at the moment, there is a plethora of world-class staycation options in our stunning backyard. Take a look at our 5 best luxury stays to celebrate a special anniversary, a milestone birthday, or even just to treat yourself if you feel like you need a quick getaway with the ones you love.

 

 

Just 45 minutes from Queenstown, retreat to this luxury stay situated on the shores of stunning Lake Wakatipu. Voted as one of the world’s best lodges by National Geographic and The Discovery Channel, Blanket Bay brings you unsurpassed comfort and unparalleled service surrounded by New Zealand’s most remote and pristine wilderness. 

 

Choose from the cosy, intimate rooms of the Main Lodge, the private standalone Chalets, the fully-serviced Villa with 4 king suites, or the ultimate Owner Residence offering the perfect setting for a family/group. We also highly recommend the five-course degustation dinner menu, which changes daily and celebrates the finest local ingredients with a "Euro Pacific" fusion cuisine.

 

If you’re seeking an adventure, there’s plenty to do in the Southern Lakes region including a Milford Sound Heli Tour, the Dart River Jet, hiking the Routeburn Track, horse riding, heli-skiing, 5 world- class golf courses within an hour’s drive - the list goes on. If you’re purely looking to relax and unwind, take a Wine & Arts Trail or make your way to the Blanket Bay Spa for natural healing therapies within the peaceful and spectacular surroundings. 

 

 

Exquisite. Boutique. Elegant. If you’re looking for a luxury trip to Europe without leaving the country, this is the perfect staycation getaway for you. This rare gem offering opulence and tranquility is just a 30-minute drive from Napier, with the beautiful retreat lying on the renowned Gimblett Gravels and Ngatarawa wine regions.

 

With a maximum of four guests at any one time, you’ll take delight in the highest levels of friendly and unobtrusive service. Enjoy the stunning farmland views of the Riverview Suite with your own private verandah, or select the intimate Garden View Room, with both suites having deluxe, handmade beds, Italian linen, and fine European furnishings. 

 

Co-owner Gary has impressively cheffed in five-star hotels and worked in Michelin star restaurants around the world, so you’ll relish in the finest cuisine and menus designed just for you from your own private chef! You can also select from a range of exclusive packages for an extra layer of indulgence, including Playing With A Pro (golf), The Winemaker’s Dinner, Truffle Hunt and more. 

 

 

Immerse yourself in spectacular views of Lake Wakatipu and the iconic Remarkables mountain range at Kamana Lake House. Being located in the adventure capital of the world and only a 5-minute drive from the town centre, the boutique hotel perfectly bridges the gap between exploration and relaxation.

 

There’s a variety of modern, stylish rooms you can choose from, however we’d highly recommend the Lakeview Luxe for two. Being the highest situated hotel room, you’ll not only get your own indoor bathtub with unobstructed, mesmerising views of the lake and mountains, but you’ll also enjoy your own outdoor soaking tub which is accompanied by dazzling scenery as well. There’s no doubt you’ll feel like it’s the ultimate spa haven. If you’re celebrating with a larger group of people, The “Residence at Kamana” is ideal for up to 6 adults, and even offers an outdoor spa bath for 6 and three ensuite bedrooms with Premium Super king beds. 

 

Of course, being in Queenstown, there’s plenty of thrilling activities to partake in. However, the top on our list are the incredible helicopter tours with The Helicopter Line. We suggest taking The Grand Circle for a 30-minute flight past the Shotover River and the ski slopes of Coronet Peak with an alpine landing, or taking the 50-minute Southern Glacier Experience for breath-taking views of the Southern Alps and Mount Aspiring National Park.

 

 

 

Naumai, haere mai ki te Kōhanga Ēkara. Perched atop a stunning headland with expansive sea views and nestled amidst lush native fauna; Eagles Nest is conveniently located a short walk to the town of Kororāreka (Russell). The multi-award winning property is a sight to behold; where you’re urged to enjoy the simplicity of well-earned quiet time, truly relaxing and rejuvenating.

 

The exclusive 5 villa resort, where all villas are designed and furnished in an eclectic contemporary style, and your every need is catered to; yes you can opt in to having a personal chef, catering, personal trainer, beauty/massage therapists, chauffeur, butler, personal shopping, plus. Need we say more?

 

If you’re looking for an idyllic retreat and a cosy nest for 2, look no further than First Light, an amazing villa with stunning sea views and private jacuzzi. For more space, look no further than Eagle Spirit. This villa, suited for up to 3 couples, offers magical vistas all while indulging in early evening cocktails on your deck, or from your 18-metre heated horizon edged/infinity pool.

 

 

 

Last but not least, and a recurring favourite, here you’ll discover the feeling of seclusion and enjoy total privacy in virtually your own private national park. Situated in the beautiful Central Otago countryside, the enthralling and unique, luxury lodge-style accommodation is just 20 minutes drive from Wanaka, or a 10-minute helicopter flight from Queenstown.

 

You’re bound to fall in love with the setting that spans over 55,000 hectares, dramatic natural alpine vistas that dominate the region, the exquisite cuisine and wine, and the exceptional, modern suites available for up to 12 guests. 

 

Three of the five Suites are located inside the Homestead which boast uninterrupted views of the mountains and Lake Wanaka, and the two other Cottage Suites adjacent to the Homestead are nestled amongst native beech forest with fabulous views of the Motatapu Valley. With exclusive-use bookings, you’ll be able to enjoy Mahu Whenua in complete privacy and accommodate up to 12 people with use of all five Ridgeline Suites as well as the Komako Family Bunkroom. 

 

As a Mahu Whenua guest, you’ll also have a myriad of exclusive high quality activities at your doorstep including helicopter adventures, horse riding, a Central Otago Wine Tour, wellness treatments, rock climbing, an Art & Photography workshop and plenty more.