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.
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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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
