New Zealand, a small but vast country with a large population, has natural beauty that stretches as far as the eye can see. It is over 990 miles (1.600 kilometres) long. This former British colony is made up of two main islands in the southwest Pacific Ocean, each with hot springs, volcanoes, lakes, and glaciers. They are all linked by mountain ranges.
What is New Zealand well-known for?
Queenstown and Christchurch are also worthwhile destinations. They provide breathtaking views and majestic mountains along Lake Wakatipu’s shores. These cities are ideal for a variety of activities such as biking, whale watching, and wine tasting. Maori culture is still an important part of everyday life in New Zealand. As you travel through this incredible country, you will have numerous opportunities to learn about its history and culture.
New Zealand Luxury Travel
New Zealand has everything. It is a country with lush landscapes and breathtaking scenery. There are also award-winning restaurants and wines. Many backpackers travel around the country hitchhiking in used cars or hired vans. Many others, on the other hand, prefer to travel in style. Luxury and New Zealand go hand in hand, and I’m here to explain why.
A Basic Overview of New Zealand
Let me tell you about New Zealand now that you know a little bit about me. The country is only 1,600 kilometres long and 400 kilometres wide at its widest point. It is home to four million people and ten million sheep. It is about 4,000 kilometres southeast of Australia’s east coast in the Southern Ocean. Although there are a few small islands off New Zealand’s coast, Antarctica is the largest land mass.
For the sake of simplicity, New Zealand has only a few large cities. You could sort them by size, as I did in my blog post about travelling in New Zealand. But let’s limit ourselves to the top five. Auckland is the largest city on New Zealand’s north island. It is situated between the Pacific and Tasman seas. Wellington, at the southern tip of the North Island, serves as the country’s capital. Many people refer to it as “the coolest capital,” and they are correct. It offers a variety of luxury experiences and properties, making it a must-see for discerning travellers.
Wellington
Nelson is located on South Island’s North Island. It serves as a gateway to a number of national parks. This is a popular tourist destination for New Zealanders (not the birds). Christchurch, the largest city on the South Island, is best known for the 2011 earthquake. It also serves as a vital port for scientific Antarctic vessels. Cruise ships, on the other hand, depart from South America. Christchurch is located on the east side of the city, just north of the Banks Peninsula. Finally, there is Dunedin. Dunedin, about five hours south of Christchurch, is home to New Zealand’s oldest university. Take a road trip to see the best of South Island.
Christchurch
Maori are New Zealand’s indigenous people, while Pakeha are white settlers. All New Zealanders, however, refer to themselves as “Kiwis.” The Maori are descendants of Polynesians, and New Zealand was one of the last places where these seafarers settled. The British arrived in the 18th century and began colonising. Although they were not the first white explorers – that distinction belongs to the Dutchman Abel Tasman – they were the first to settle. You’ve probably heard of Captain Cook. For the British, Captain Cook “discovered” New Zealand. South Island’s Otago and Central Otago were primarily settled by goldrush settlers and Scottish immigrants. The southern half of South Island has a Scottish flavour rather than British English or Maori.
The landscape of New Zealand varies greatly from one side to the other. Luxury travellers must be able to move around and see everything. There are 13 luxury lodges in New Zealand, all of which are located in stunning and unique landscapes. The excellent domestic air network, as well as helicopter access to most lodges, make it simple to travel around New Zealand.
Auckland
The Far North is sometimes referred to as the “winterless north” because of its lush tropical-like beaches and mild winters. The Bay of Islands is a popular vacation destination and a great place to spend a few hours sailing. Auckland is the country’s main entry point. It is also referred to as the City of Sails. Sailing is permitted in Waitemata Harbour and the Hauraki Gulf. Rotorua, Taupo, and the country’s geothermal region are located south of Auckland. There are still active volcanoes in this area. Also available is the best day hike in the world, which crosses the volcanic fields of Tongariro Ruapehu and Ngauruhoe, also known in popular culture as Mount Doom. There are numerous day trips available from Auckland.
The gentle rolling hills and rugged rock cliffs of Wairarapa, one of New Zealand’s many wine regions, replace the volcanic central plateau. It’s an excellent day trip from Wellington. There is, however, a stunning luxury lodge near Cape Palliser.
Wairarapa
The Nelson-Tasman region is located on the other side of the Cook Strait from Wellington. It is well-known for its lush landscapes, which are reminiscent of the Bay of Islands. It gets colder here in the winter, but it’s still a great place to visit in the summer. Some lodges can only be reached by boat, making them ideal for a romantic getaway. The Abel Tasman National Park and the remote Kahurangi National Park are both located west of Nelson. Kahurangi is a fantastic trail for experienced hikers. It is less crowded than the other trails. Picton and Nelson are southeast of Kahurangi. Sauvignon Blanc is well-known in the Marlborough wine region. The Canterbury Plains are located to the south. On the plains is the Banks Peninsula, an extinct volcano and rugged supervolcano. The Southern Alps form the South Island’s spine and rise into the Canterbury Plains. They run at a 45-degree angle from the top of South Island to the bottom, where they end in the ocean. Take a road trip to see the beauty of the North Island.
Queenstown
Queenstown, Wanaka, and Papakura are two of the most popular South Island destinations. These two small towns are deep in the Southern Alps, but I can’t call them cities because of their growing population. Every year, thousands of tourists visit. Six luxury properties are located between the two towns. They are separated by the Crown Range and are an hour apart. Glenorchy also has a luxury lodge, which is located at the far end of Lake Wakatipu, just one hour from Queenstown. This lodge and two others can also be reached by helicopter.
Both Queenstown and Wanaka are in Central Otago. Fiordland, on the other hand, is just over the mountains. The Routeburn Track, which begins in Glenorchy and ends at the Milford Road, is a popular Great Walk. To reach the trail’s end, you’ll need to drive for four hours. It is possible to hire a private driver. Milford Sound is a must-see attraction in Fiordland. Although cruising is the most popular way to see it, it is not the best. Small planes or helicopters can transport you there.
Wanaka
Finally, there’s Stewart Island in Southland. The Southland is similar to the Far North. It is unspoiled and has the feel of New Zealand. Stewart Island is a national park where visitors can see kiwi birds in their natural habitat. Although there isn’t much to be luxurious about down here, your travel advisor can assist you in ensuring your comfort.
What is the cost of visiting New Zealand, and why should you?
You’re either going on vacation or finishing this post. Why should you visit New Zealand as a luxury traveller? There are four reasons for this. There is outstanding food and wine, incredible adventures, breathtaking scenery, and fascinating culture, as well as outstanding history and culture.
The thing about New Zealand is that you can do it on any budget. In some areas, free camping is still permitted. However, the more money you have, the more you can see and do in New Zealand. The country’s tourism outlook has shifted in recent years from adrenaline-fueled activities in remote mountains to one-of-a-kind experiences that cannot be found on the internet. You’ll need a travel advisor to understand a lot of what I’m talking about.
Lodges and Hotels in New Zealand
The hotels range from low-cost hostels to opulent lodges. In peak season, even a hostel can cost $75 per night. Experiential learning can be costly. A three-hour horseback ride costs more than $300 per person, and skydives range from $500 to $500. Bungy jumping, a popular Queenstown activity because it is where the exciting sport was invented, costs $200 per person. A helicopter sightseeing tour takes you around the country in fifteen minutes for only $155. It is usually $400 per person. If you intend to visit any of the major attractions, you should budget for a costly trip.
Meals can be budget busters. Generic items such as bread and milk can be purchased at grocery and bottle stores for as little as $1.50 (no brand name) and as much as $5.00. (brand name fancy). Wine and beer prices can range from $10.00 to $20.00. Dining out will cost more than eating in, but you’ll want to try New Zealand’s delicious cuisine. Lunch at a good restaurant should cost around $20 per person. Expect to spend $150 per person on a nice dinner and drinks.
New Zealand Tourism
In recent years, the country’s tourism outlook has shifted from adrenaline-fueled activities in remote mountain huts to one-of-a-kind experiences that are difficult to find online or create yourself. You’ll need a travel advisor to understand a lot of what I’m talking about.
The Virtuoso network is the world’s largest luxury travel consortium, and it includes all luxury lodges in New Zealand. Virtuoso is a network to which I belong through my host agency. This means that all of the hotels in the network have VIP status for my clients and others. What do VIP customers get? Upgrades upon arrival or at the time of booking, complimentary breakfast, free wifi, and much more are all available. The status of a hotel indicates how willing they are to take risks for my clients. There are numerous luxury boutiques to choose from, as well as the brands Four Seasons and Ritz Carlton.
Top New Zealand Luxury Destinations
You’re probably wondering how I can talk about luxury experiences in New Zealand when I’ve already admitted to backpacking around the country. So, here’s why. These items were within my price range.
Different people may have different definitions of luxury. While adventure is my luxury, others may prefer shopping or spas. Every itinerary I design is unique and tailored to the needs of each client. These are some of my favourite New Zealand luxury experiences and places to visit (from North-South).
The Kauri Cliffs Lodge
The Kauri Cliffs Lodge is located above Matauri Bay, north of Kerikeri. It is also close to the Bay of Islands. It is remote and has breathtaking views of the bay. The Lodge has an award-winning spa as well as a golf course. There are a variety of other exciting amenities to keep you and your loved ones entertained. The Lodge is an excellent base for exploring the Northland. The Bay of Islands and Cape Reinga are included. You can also visit the kauri forest and 90 Mile Beach on the west coast. For a truly luxurious experience, fly over the Bay by helicopter, then turn north to Cape Reinga. A driver will meet you at the airport and transport you back to the Far North for a leisurely exploration. Although it is a long day, it is well worth the effort.
The Best One-Day Hike in the World
This hike is a must-see for Lord of the Rings fans because it leads to the breathtaking Mount Doom. The Devil’s Staircase, despite its appearance, will make you reconsider. Your driver will meet you at the Ketetahi parking lot and transport you back to Taupo’s Huka Lodge or Rotorua’s Treetops Lodge, where you can immediately immerse yourself in the natural hot pools.
Private Custom Tours
Private travel consultants visit destinations all over the world to discover the best of each location. They can assist you in creating unforgettable and one-of-a-kind travel experiences in any location that your guests enjoy or a hidden gem that has yet to be discovered.
Unparalleled Travel Experience
From private helicopter flights to gourmet winery tours, a personalised guided holiday is the best way to see the best of this country. This vacation will be one to remember! Luxury guided tours to New Zealand include luxurious accommodations, exciting activities, gourmet meals, and other benefits.
New Zealand’s Five Star and Boutique Accommodations
We only work with the best accommodation providers in New Zealand. You have the option of staying wherever you want. This includes 5-star hotels, boutique lodges, luxury hideaways, private holiday homes, luxury estates, and luxury estates. We can meet all of your requirements.
In New Zealand, luxury guided tours combine breathtaking scenery with thrilling adventures. Travelers should expect exceptional accommodations throughout the country.
Experiences
Working closely with your personal travel consultant, you can discover the best of our country! There are numerous activities available in the country. Private golf tours, wellness and soul-rejuvenation experiences, private hunting and fishing trips, and private ski and helicopter tours are all available in the area. Our knowledgeable tour and travel agency provides a variety of options for tourists seeking a relaxing or adventurous vacation.
Transportation Options for the Wealthy
All types of travel can be included in your New Zealand Luxury Tour. Your private tour guide will chauffeur you around New Zealand in a luxurious vehicle appropriate for the number of passengers, such as a sedan, SUV, or coach. You can also book chartered fixed-wing or helicopter transfers between your lodging and your destination. Your consultant can arrange for you to drive some of New Zealand’s most beautiful roads in luxury cars and sports cars. Your consultant will work with you to plan an unforgettable experience.
