Janine Thompson

Located in the bustling tourist town of Paihia in the Bay of Islands, is the highly acclaimed Paihia Beach Resort & Spa. The resort offers panoramic views of the beautiful Bay of Islands and is only a short stroll to the main wharf and shops in Paihia. Each ultra-chic guest room offers a luxurious spa bath and floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the stunning Bay of Islands. At Paihia Beach Resort & Spa every room boasts an ocean view.

Nestled in 2,500 acres of an 800 year old native forest, this ecology inspired acclaimed luxury lodge is a nature lovers sanctuary located outside Rotorua, the Maori heartland and trout fishing capital of New Zealand. Treetops Lodge & Estate features an elegant and ecology inspired architecture which echoes the natural beauty of the New Zealand great outdoors. It offers seven streams, on-site trout fishing, four lakes, an 18 hole Jack Nicklaus designed golf course and over 70 kilometres of adventure trails. With an ‘estate reared to plate’ philosophy to dining, guests can accompany the chef to the vegetable garden and orchard to select produce for the kitchen.

The Kinloch Club offers irresistible new heights of golfing and luxury lodgings to discerning lovers of natural beauty and cutting-edge lodge design – complementing a spectacular, on-site, 18 hole Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course. With interiors by designer Virginia Fisher, renowned for her work involving luxury lodges in New Zealand, the lodge and junior suites, one and two bedroom villas, all feature stunning designer elements including vista windows of the lake and golf course, huge log fireplaces, sensational marble bathrooms and secluded furnished terraces.

Founded by charming Irishman, Alan Pye, and famed for its unrivalled location and generous hospitality , Huka Lodge lies within 17 acres of manicured grounds beside the hypnotic turquoise waters of the Waikato River, Taupo. With 19 Junior Lodge Suites, one suite and two private cottages providing two luxurious hideaways, guests enjoy superb cuisine, seamless service and every comfort while Huka Lodge proudly maintains its place as one of the world's finest retreats- its reputation and abundance of awards all richly deserved.

Situated on the banks of the legendary Tongariro River, Tongariro Lodge offers private chalets and villas in beautiful park like grounds, all featuring their own secluded terrace with views of the Tongariro River or mountains beyond. The lodge is world renowned for its trout fishing guides. Also enjoy the many other outdoor activities on offer including guided scenic walks, white water rafting and mountain biking. Embark on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, one of the most popular one day walks in New Zealand. The true atmosphere of the Lodge is best experienced in front of an open fire over a four course meal carefully prepared by chefs and served in style by friendly staff in one of two pleasant dining rooms. The lodge specialises in serving the best of New Zealand game and traditional foods.

Hapuku Lodge and Tree Houses is a contemporary country lodge. The lodge is located 12 kilometres from Kaikoura and is composed of four lodge suites and five tree houses built in the canopy of a native Manuka grove. All rooms at the lodge feature beautiful, custom designed, hand crafted furniture and European style bathrooms. The tree houses have large spa baths and the lodge suites have Japanese soaking tubs. Relax and take in the breathtaking views of snow capped mountains and surf washed coastline from the privacy of your own room.

Hidden Queenstown is situated on the edge of Lake Wakatipu, just minutes from downtown Queenstown. It consists of four private suites with outstanding views, and it is perfect for couples and travellers looking for pure indulgence and relaxation. Understated elegance allows guests to feel at home in the environment. Be mesmerised every morning when waking to amazing sunsets and views over the lake and mountain ranges. Upon request, dinner can be delivered to each of the suites so that guests can enjoy a cosy night in looking out at the stars.

Azur offers first class accommodation with magnificent views of Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding mountains of The Remarkables. The lodge is nestled among three and a half acres of native bushland and only five minutes drive to downtown Queenstown. Relax by the fireplace in your exclusive private open plan villa while enjoying the unobstructed views of the lake and mountain ranges. Each identical villa is 79 square metres of open plan living in the midst of New Zealand’s natural environment. Incorporating a lounge, dining area, a private sun deck with a choice of either a king or twin beds dressed with luxury linen to promise an exceptional sleep experience. Soak up the spectacular unobstructed views from the bathtub, which has been set into a bay window to give you a feeling of being outdoors.

An elegant country-house located on picturesque Larnach Castle land, only minutes from the front gate of the castle. All rooms are opulently decorated in a neo-classic style featuring designer fittings and furnishings including gas fireplaces and a marble staircase. This property is situated high above the Otago Harbour with views of the surrounding countryside. A unique dining opportunity is offered to guests only, in a Larnach Castle Dining Room. The menu reflects traditional New Zealand style cuisine – all meat, vegetables and wines are sourced locally.