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New Zealand

Photo of New Zealand
Credit: flickr user Bernard Spragg
Photo of New Zealand
Credit: Image by Julius Silver from Pi
Photo of New Zealand
Credit: Image by Holger Detje from Pix
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About New Zealand

A long-time favourite of outdoorsy travellers the world over, New Zealand is a marvellous country of dynamic cities, a rich Māori culture, fabulous food and wine and breathtaking landscapes. Ski down dramatic mountain slopes, paddle through the still waters of the majestic Sounds, stroll along epic beaches or hike amidst ancient forests filled with endemic birdlife over the course of your journey. Whether you’re travelling as a couple or with friends and family, you’ll find remote eco-lodges, swish city hotels, heritage B&Bs and indulgent vineyard escapes aplenty, linked by some of the most spectacular roads in the world. As varied as its scenery, our list of the best places to stay in New Zealand promises something for everyone.

Set on a wind-whipped peninsula near the southern tip of the North Island, Wellington has been dubbed ‘The Coolest Little Capital in the World’. It’s definitely one of the country’s most intriguing cities, perfect for culture buffs and keen foodies. Other city highlights include diverse Auckland, to the north, and the South Island's Christchurch and Queenstown. The country’s adrenaline sports hub, Queenstown is your best bet for thrilling skydives, bungee jumping, jet boating and skiing. More laid-back nature lovers, on the other hand, will be fascinated by the Abel Tasman National Park, Wānaka, Rotorua or Lake Taupo, where you can trek, raft, kayak, horse ride, fish, play golf and birdwatch. Hikers can plan entire trips around New Zealand’s famed ‘Great Walks’; a terrific way to experience these islands.

You'll undoubtedly feast on delicious seasonal produce throughout the country, but the wine regions of Hawke’s Bay — home to Art Deco Napier and Hamilton — Marlborough and Otago offer a particularly tempting combination of delectable dishes paired with NZ sauvignon blancs and pinot noirs. Some of the best places to stay in New Zealand are cosy B&Bs, sprawling vineyard resorts or hidden little lodges in world-class wine country.

The Best Places to Stay in New Zealand

For a Charming B&B

  • Dyers House is a gorgeous Edwardian villa in Christchurch's pretty Cashmere Hills. With three cosy, traditional bedrooms, flower-filled gardens and welcoming hosts, this is a top B&B for a relaxing break. Small weddings for up to 30 guests can be hosted in the garden. Adults only.
  • Arcadia Lodge is a delightful heritage B&B with a small selection of characterful rooms, suites and a two-bedroom cottage overlooking Matauwhi Bay in Russell. Feast on chef-owner Peter's gourmet breakfasts of garden-grown ingredients or taste NZ wine on your private deck. The Tautoru Studio is particularly romantic.
  • Hawthorne House is a super stylish four-bedroom B&B run by two welcoming art collectors. Set in a historic house close to Hastings, individually decorated rooms are filled with original artwork. Enjoy breakfasts with homemade jam & fresh eggs from the hens before embarking upon art tours and wine tastings. Great for artsy couples.

For City Style

  • Hotel Fitzroy by Fable is a converted heritage manor with swish annexe in Auckland's hip Ponsonby area. Perfect for well-heeled couples or friends, this sumptuous 10-room boutique pad offers gourmet breakfasts, easy access to a trendy neighbourhood and whisky nightcaps in the art-filled library.
  • Eichardt's Private Hotel is a chic boutique hotel housed in a heritage Queenstown property. Highlights include the beautiful lake-facing deck with hot tub, the Vault Spa — housed in a historic gold vault — and sumptuous rooms and suites with roaring fireplaces and big cosy beds. Very romantic and central.
  • QT Museum Hotel has a funky buzz, with glamorous arty interiors, two eateries and a bustling bar. Rooms and suites are more minimal, and some have impressive harbour views. With a swimming pool and gym, this is a top-notch city bolthole. Right opposite Te Papa Museum in Wellington.
  • The George is a 53-room boutique hotel in the heart of Christchurch, close to Hagley Park. Feast on award-winning cuisine at 50 Bistro, borrow bikes to cycle around the city, and enjoy cooking classes or wine tastings at the hotel. A chic and luxurious city base.
  • The Hotel Britomart has a burgeoning reputation as one of the coolest places to stay in Auckland. Foodies and lovers of great interiors will delight in this soulful spot. Contemporary suites boast epic views, there's chic private dining and hip Kingi Restaurant is a gem. Chef Tom Hishon uses sustainably caught seafood to create innovative dishes paired with North Island wines.

For a Vineyard Escape

  • Craggy Range Cottages is a collection of nine beautifully appointed cottages nestled around the famed Craggy Range Winery. Choose this property for its cool, contemporary design, marvellous views of Te Mata Peak and award-winning gourmet restaurant. Wine lovers will adore the Cellar Door bar — also a destination in itself.
  • Gibbston Valley Lodge & Spa is one for wine lovers. Stylish villas sit within a Pinot Noir vineyard, and offer spectacular views, indulgent bathrooms and open-plan living spaces. With a superb spa, delectable private dining experiences and a fantastic cellar door onsite, this is a real romantic highlight.
  • Takatu Lodge & Vineyard offers four spacious suites on a working vineyard set on the Tāwharanui Peninsula, just a few minutes' drive from Matakana. Foodies and wine lovers will adore tours and tastings at the vineyard, as well as delectable cuisine using produce from the lodge's own gardens. A restful luxury choice.

FOR ACTIVE FAMILIES OR GROUPS

  • Treetops Lodge & Estate offers a luxurious escape within a verdant forest. Choose from spacious villas or a self-catering apartment, and spend your days hiking, fishing and exploring. Foodies will love the cooking school, home grown produce — from the lodge's 2,500 acre estate — and opportunities for foraging walks and lessons in traditional Maori cuisine. A delight for guests of all ages.
  • Awaroa Lodge is a remote eco-lodge on the coast in the Abel Tasman National Park. The 26 contemporary rooms & suites have outdoor decks, space for families and great views. Feast on produce from the organic kitchen garden after days of kayaking, sailing, dolphin and bird-spotting or feeding the tame eels with the little ones. Come by air or water — there are no roads to this family-friendly escape!
  • Fiordland Lodge has 10 rooms and two standalone cabins, perfect for families or groups looking to immerse themselves in the wonders of the Fiordland National Park. Views towards Te Anau Lake are spectacular, there's delicious food onsite and myriad outdoorsy activities for guests of all ages.
  • The Bay of Many Coves Resort has one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments with spectacular views over Arthur's Bay near Picton. Set on 52 hectares of private grounds, this secluded escape can be accessed only by air or water. Families and groups will delight in fantastic food, hikes, sailing and fishing.
  • The Point Villas share 58 acres of lakeside grounds, perfect for active groups or families. The two villas have multiple bedrooms, full kitchens, decks and private pools, as well as shared access to tennis courts, kayaks, croquet & boat ramps. A secluded, family-owned site with heaps of charm in Taupo.

For an Island Hideaway

  • Church Hill Lodge & Restaurant is a three-room property in coastal Oban on Stewart Island. Friendly owners Deanne and Chris infuse this lovely restaurant-with-rooms with friendliness and charm aplenty. Ever-changing restaurant menus champion seasonal produce, with vegetables grown in the lodge's own hydroponic gardens paired with freshly caught fish.
  • The Boatshed sits moments from Oneroa Beach, with five sophisticated suites and two cottages channelling classic nautical Kiwi style. Romantics can hide away in the Watertower Room. Appealing tables for two can be arranged alfresco, for savouring produce from the veggie patch and the ocean.
  • Kawau Lodge sits on Kawau Island's North Cove, and boasts eight airy rooms with stunning views of the forest and the sea. Pick this place for a family or group trip and book multiple rooms; cook up a storm in the kitchen or kick back on the sun-drenched deck. Sailing, kayaking and birdwatching are all on the agenda. Lovely.

For Romantic Luxury

  • Kinloch Manor is a luxurious retreat with impeccable spa facilities and delicious home-grown cuisine. Boasting a stunning 18-hole golf course and tennis court, as well as multi-bedroom cottages with epic Lake Taupo views, this is a terrific holiday choice for sophisticated couples or groups of friends.
  • Mahu Whenua Lodge has just four fabulous suites, tucked within a 200 square mile estate. Admire the Motatapu Valley, Lake Wanaka and the mountains from your suite or the outdoor pool, before exploring the area with private four-wheel-drive eco safaris, horse riding treks and visits to Manuka honey farms. The gourmet fare is exceptional and the property's eco-focus is very strong. A honeymoon favourite.
  • The Sounds Retreat is a cool, contemporary suite with superb views over Queen Charlotte Sound. Pick this place for the indulgent feel, the sense of privacy, and the beautiful candelit gourmet dinners. The team pride themselves on organising epic activities — from private vineyard tours in a 1985 Land Rover Defender to helicopter trips and fishing charters. A honeymoon escape.
  • The Farm at Cape Kidnappers fuses rustic charm with modern style to create chic suites — some with two-bedrooms — featuring panoramic views of the sea and the property's 6,000 acres of farmland. With walking trails, horse riding, cycling, a swimming pool, onsite spa and a great golf course, there's no shortage of activities for couples or families to try. Enchanting.
  • Annandale promises a spectacular series of secret private residences peppered around a 6,000 acre working estate. Hide away in a classic cottage for a romantic weekend or party the night away in a contemporary seascape retreat with friends. The ultimate luxury escape, between Akaroa and Christchurch. Exceptional.
  • Wharekauhau Country Estate is a fabulous lodge with cottages and a three-bedroom villa overlooking Palliser Bay near Wellington. Brilliant for a country escape as a couple or with friends and family, the lodge promises exceptional interiors and heaps of activities — including tennis, a spa, farm tours, hiking and cycling along 10 miles of Pacific coastline.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY COTTAGE

  • If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

  • Fly to Auckland Airport, to Wellington Airport, Christchurch Airport or Queenstown Airport, the country's largest travel hubs. Continue your journey by car, bus, train or helicopter.
  • New Zealand is famously wonderful for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
  • Travel during the spring or summer for the best weather, with temperatures peaking around 20-25°C between December and April. For a quieter trip and great deals in much of the North Island, look at May or October-November, though these months will be cooler and showers more frequent. If you're looking to ski in the South Island, May to October will be the busiest time to travel.

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The best hotels in South Island

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Kinloch Wilderness Retreat
Kinloch Wilderness Retreat

South Island (Kinloch)

Range of accommodation at the north end of Lake Wakatipu, from shared dorms to delightful double ensuites. Communal kitchen, restaurant, outdoor hot tub and stunning lake and mountain views. Fabulous watersports and a great base for Routeburn, Greenstone, Caples and Rees and Dart walking tracks.

  • Riding - Ride through 150,000 acres of countryside - some seen in Lord of the Rings - with High Country Horses or Lighthorse Adventures
  • Cycling - Borrow mountain bikes or electric bikes to cycle along lakeside and mountain paths from Glenorchy or the Dart River Bridge
  • Groups - Groups and families will appreciate the flexible accommodation options - inc dorm rooms - and the communal kitchen
  • Back to Nature - Ideal for nature lovers eager to immerse themselves in the striking countryside, with hikes, walks & watersports
from $32 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Hāwea Hotel
Hāwea Hotel

Wanaka ( Lake Hawea)

A lakeside hotel with contemporary rooms & suites offering spectacular lake and mountain views. Two-bedroom suites and simpler hostel rooms are well-suited to families, groups or solo travellers. Enjoy water sports, a friendly bar a terrific restaurant and great events spaces. Fantastic.

  • Active Holiday - Brilliant for active types eager to sail, kayak, windsurf or fish on the lake before hiking, skiing & cycling in the mountains
  • Families - Families will love the two-bedroom suites, complete with private balconies, and the fun games room
  • Great walks - Hike part of the nearby Te Araroa Trail, New Zealand’s longest walking track
  • Restaurant - The superb lake view restaurant champions fresh Central Otago produce
from $70 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

The best hotels in North Island

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The Duke of Marlborough Hotel
The Duke of Marlborough Hotel

The Bay of Islands (Russell)

Open since 1827, The Duke of Marlborough is a Russell institution — and the oldest licensed hotel in New Zealand. Renovated rooms are chic, there are two buzzy restaurant spaces and the waterfront location is fabulous. A landmark hotel for couples or families in the heart of town.

  • Historic - The oldest licensed hotel in New Zealand, the Duke opened as a 'grog shop' in 1827
  • Local exploring - In the heart of Russell, this is a great base for explorers and heritage buffs
  • Great walks - The annual Bay of Islands Walking Weekend takes place each October with 18 routes, and is based in Russell
  • Restaurant - Expect delectable fare, with a focus on freshly caught seafood — including Waikare Inlet Oysters
from $91 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
The State Hotel, New Plymouth
The State Hotel, New Plymouth

New Plymouth

The State Hotel offers 15 trendy suites in the heart of New Plymouth. Individually styled rooms are all dark and moody, offset with contemporary artwork and eclectic furniture. Downstairs there's a choice of a cafe and two lively restaurants. A hip boutique stay.

  • City Style - This hotel has a young, fun feel, with access to lively restaurants and chic design
  • Boutique - A trendy boutique property bringing dark moody style with eclectic furniture
  • Restaurant - There are three different restaurants on site: Joe's Garage, Gover Street Bistro and State Pasta
  • Great walks - Amble along the Coastal Walkway, which stretches 11km along the Taranaki coast
from $98 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

The best hotels in Queenstown

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Sherwood
Sherwood

Queenstown (Aotearoa)

Attractive lodgings just outside Queenstown with an eco-conscious vibe. This bohemian retreat is perfect for guests hitting the slopes on the Remarkables mountain range. With excellent organic food, spacious rooms with spectacular views, and very attractive rates - this is an alluring stay.

  • Families - Large family suites available, with a range of dining, babysitting and activity options available to keep the whole family busy
  • Active Holiday - With ski equipment to hire and repair on-site, and access to local outdoor activities, this hotel is perfect for active guests
  • Back to Nature - With an eco-conscious vibe promoting harmony with the natural world, Sherwood supports guests in reconnecting with the nature
  • Foodies - Enjoy organic, on-site or locally sourced and produced food prepared in a hearty and rustic style
from $89 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Melbourne Lodge
Melbourne Lodge

Queenstown

A range of rooms, suites and apartments to suit varying budgets in the centre of Queenstown. Clean, modern, friendly and functional, with free breakfast. A superb base for a winter stay with a choice of ski areas, not forgetting the winter festival, pure mountain mayhem! Ideal for larger groups.

  • Rafting - Less than 1 km from the Dart River Safari, the lodge is perfect for active explorers eager to experience the river
  • Skiing - Coronet Peak Ski Resort is a 20-minute drive and The Remarkables Ski Area 35 minutes away
  • Families - Multi-bedroom apartments with kitchens and private terraces are brilliant for families
  • Value chic - Book a room with a shared bathroom for a great value Queenstown stay
from $98 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

The best hotels in Auckland

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Naumi Hotel Auckland Airport
Naumi Hotel Auckland Airport

Auckland (Māngere)

A funky airport hotel with bright, bold interiors and a sociable buzz, Naumi is a great choice for a short stop with friends or family. Play mini-golf, swim in the pool or tuck into Asian fusion fare at Paksa, before or after your flight.

  • Families - Spacious suites, child-sized golf clubs and kid-friendly food make this a fun family choice
  • Short break - A funky airport hotel for a short stay in Auckland at the beginning or end of your trip
  • Swimming Pool - There's nothing like a refreshing dip in the outdoor pool before or after a flight!
  • Restaurant - Enjoy breakfast, lunch, dinner or a coffee at trendy Paksa Restaurant.
from $101 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Park Hotel
Park Hotel

Auckland

A sleek hotel offering smart, style-led accommodation in the heart of the city. Minimalist rooms feature well-designed kitchenettes, luxury bathrooms and ocean-view terraces.

  • No restaurant - Rooms come with kitchenettes, and there are a plethora of great restaurants nearby
  • Family Suites - Two-bedroom Fantail suites are ideal for friends or families travelling together
  • Walking distance restaurants - Savour a fantastic array of cuisine in some of Auckland's trendiest restaurants
  • City Style - With up-to-the-minute technology and chic contemporary design
from $101 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

The best hotels in Tasman

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The Abel Tasman Lodge
The Abel Tasman Lodge

Tasman

A hugely popular collection of 15 chalets in Mārahau, moments from the Abel Tasman National Park. Interiors are bright, airy and modern, with kitchens and garden-facing terraces. Weber BBQs and a hot tub are great. Ideal for couples, friends or active families looking to kayak, swim, sail & hike.

  • Active Holiday - Just 400 metres from the National Park & close to the beach, this is a top spot for kayaking, sailing, hiking & horse riding
  • Fishing - Keen anglers will adore fly fishing in the area, whilst kids can catch their lunch at the Anatoki Salmon Farm
  • Families - Two-bedroom chalets are perfect for families, and the lodge can suggest child-friendly activities aplenty
  • Great walks - Walk the 60km Abel Tasman Coastal Track, one of NZ's 'Great Walks', or try the Pitt Head Loop walk
from $119 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Murchison Lodge
Murchison Lodge

Tasman

A charming 4-room B&B run by a friendly couple who offer big breakfasts & excellent local knowledge. Rooms are spacious and traditional, with wood panelling and lovely views. Set in 4 acres of riverside gardens in Murchison. A top spot for fishing, hiking, rafting & kayaking. For couples or groups.

  • Other Activities - Cross NZ's longest swing bridge at Buller Gorge or take a 4WD to the forest for The Natural Flame Experience with tea & pancakes
  • Groups - A brilliant choice for a group of 8, who can rent the whole house for relaxed garden days, fishing, kayaking, swimming & hiking
  • Back to Nature - A friendly B&B for nature lovers eager to immerse themselves in a bird-filled garden, in a tranquil part of the Tasman region
  • Fishing - This is a top spot to go fly fishing for brown trout — the owners can arrange guided excursions
from $127 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

The best hotels in Wanaka

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Hāwea Hotel
Hāwea Hotel

Wanaka ( Lake Hawea)

A lakeside hotel with contemporary rooms & suites offering spectacular lake and mountain views. Two-bedroom suites and simpler hostel rooms are well-suited to families, groups or solo travellers. Enjoy water sports, a friendly bar a terrific restaurant and great events spaces. Fantastic.

  • Active Holiday - Brilliant for active types eager to sail, kayak, windsurf or fish on the lake before hiking, skiing & cycling in the mountains
  • Families - Families will love the two-bedroom suites, complete with private balconies, and the fun games room
  • Great walks - Hike part of the nearby Te Araroa Trail, New Zealand’s longest walking track
  • Restaurant - The superb lake view restaurant champions fresh Central Otago produce
from $70 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
The Willows
The Willows

Wanaka (Wanaka)

A collection of airy, modern studios & multi-room apartments with kitchens, dining spaces & sitting rooms clad in muted creams, greys & light blues. Each has a private terrace, well-equipped kitchen and garden access. Great for active families or groups eager to stay just 300m from Lake Wanaka.

  • Active Holiday - With its setting close to both lake and mountains, Wanaka is ideal for an active getaway
  • Groups - Apartments and the Willows House sleep up to 6 or 8 guests, perfect for fun group trips
  • Great walks - Hike to the top of Mount Iron for stunning 360° views of the area, or follow trekking trails through Mt Aspiring National Park
  • Kayaking - Go kayaking, jet-skiing, paddle boarding or para-gliding on Lake Wanaka
from $165 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

The best hotels in Picton

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Lochmara Lodge
Lochmara Lodge

Picton (Queen Charlotte Sound)

Accessed by seaplane or water taxi, this relaxed eco-lodge on Lochmara Bay is perfect for couples, groups or families. Flexible room options have kitchenettes, balconies & simple, traditional interiors. Hike, kayak, paddle board or marvel at the underwater aquarium & conservation projects. Lovely.

  • Wildlife Area - Book a tour of the lodge's stationary underwater observatory — one of 2 in NZ — for a family-friendly insight into marine life
  • Birdwatching - Witness the amazing dawn chorus & speak to the team about Yellow & Red Crowned Kākariki, Weka & Blue Penguin conservation
  • Back to Nature - Ideal for keen kayakers, hikers & wildlife enthusiasts eager to stay somewhere remote yet welcoming on the Sounds
  • Families - Families will appreciate the plethora of activites and the flexible accommodation with multiple beds in studios
from $89 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
The Portage Resort
The Portage Resort

Picton (Marlborough Sounds)

A collection of affordable rooms and suites for fun, outdoorsy trips to the Sounds. Bright, modern rooms have great views to Kenepuru Sound - some boast private balconies. With an outdoor swimming pool, spa, gardens and two restaurants, this is a relaxed, family-friendly base.

  • Value chic - Simple, budget-friendly rooms and suites in a scenic part of the Sounds. The Weka rooms are the most affordable
  • Families - Book a two-bedroom Korimako room for a family or group trip, and go kayaking, sailing, hiking and more
  • Kayaking - Hire kayaks or stand up paddleboards to explore the crystalline waters of the Sounds
  • Fishing - Try your hand at fishing - the resort has rods suitable for children and adults
from $121 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia