New Zealand is famed for its rugged landscapes, adventure activities, and down-to-earth locals. But it’s also a land of stunning contrasts. Nestled within the soaring mountains, glittering glaciers, lush forests, and windswept fjords are the most luxurious experiences offering the perfect balance between opulence and authenticity. New Zealand’s luxury experiences not only offer indulgence but also allow you to forge a deeper connection with the country’s landscapes, people and traditions. As you get to know the outdoor-loving locals and the wild landscapes on a trip to New Zealand you’ll see how they harmonize with the luxurious side of this extraordinary country. 

Experience it: The Long White Cloud

@tewaonui_forest_retreat

Luxury nature retreats

A bush retreat doesn’t typically conjure up images of high-end luxury, but in New Zealand, that’s exactly what you’ll get. The country’s most remarkable luxury lodges are immersed in breathtaking scenery. These retreats are intimately entwined with the outdoors, yet they’re sophisticated, with world-class services, cuisine, and design. Our top picks are the Te Waonui Forest Retreat and the Milford Sound Lodge. 

Located in Franz Josef, Te Waonui Forest Retreat is an eco-friendly, five-star oasis, submerged in the pristine wilderness. The elegant rooms have plush beds and large private bathrooms, along with a private balcony or courtyard that places you within reach of the lush forest. With its impeccable service and earthy ambience, this is rugged luxury at its best.

The Milford Sound Lodge is another gorgeous retreat. Located in the heart of the Fiordland National Park, right on the doorstep of Milford Sound, this lodge is completely surrounded by natural beauty. You’ll stay in either a Riverside or Mountain View chalet, each beautifully designed with unparalleled views of the scenery. You’ll also be steps away from the famous lakes, mountains, glaciers and valleys of the Milford Track, where you can get swept away in nature’s wonders.

Read more: The ultimate nature retreat: welcome to Milford Sound Lodge

@milfordsoundlodge

Fine dining and wining in the wilderness

New Zealand’s culinary scene showcases the best of its local produce, with mouthwatering lamb, beef, seafood, and fruit and vegetables, all grown in the surrounding regions. In Dunedin, you’ll dine on local favorites such as braised lamb and the catch of the day at Parcels Restaurant at the heritage hotel, Distinction Dunedin. 

In Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand’s Art Deco capital and world-renowned wine country, you’ll enjoy a dinner with wine pairing at Craggy Range Winery. With the rugged backdrop of Te Mata Peak and golden vineyards, you’ll feast on locally-grown produce and award-winning wines in this family-owned winery.

Keep the wine exploration going with a boutique wine tour in Queenstown. You’ll savor the best Pinot Noir and Sauvignon Blanc of the Central Otago wine region. If beer is more your speed, we’ll take you to Emerson’s Brewery to sample Dunedin’s best local brews with a tour and tasting session. You’ll witness each stage of the brewing process, from the malt room to the bottling area of this exceptional microbrewery. 

Read more: 5 Once-in-a-Lifetime Experiences to Have in New Zealand

@craggyrange

Relax in nature’s spa

Mother Nature loves to show off in New Zealand. She also loves to nurture, offering up her very own natural spa baths. On your trip to New Zealand, you’ll find geothermal pools throughout the country. The therapeutic hot springs offer a serene experience in the wild landscapes. 

Sink into the bubbling pools and mud baths of Rotorua, or indulge in the luxurious Onsen Hot Pools in Queenstown. As you soak in the mineral-rich waters while taking in the wilderness, you’ll strike the perfect balance between luxury and the great outdoors.

Read more: Reconnect with the great outdoors at these luxurious back-to-nature retreats

@rotoruanz

Bespoke adventure experiences

New Zealand is the adrenaline capital of the world, and we elevate these experiences with a more intimate atmosphere. Enjoy private guided walks along the Milford Track and Franz Josef Glacier or a scenic bike ride on the Arrow River Trail in Queenstown. Whatever your speed, there are endless opportunities for bespoke adventure on your trip to New Zealand. 

We’ll visit the subterranean Waitomo Cave and take a private boat tour. As you coast through the extensive underground caves, you’ll marvel at the dazzling resident glowworms. In the Te Wāhipounamu World Heritage Area, you’ll enjoy a Haast River jet boat safari. Cruise past pristine forests and snow-capped mountains as you hear fascinating stories of the communities in this valley. From the Queen Charlotte Sound cruise to the TranzAlpine train journey, you’ll experience outdoor adventure in style.

Read more: Six Stunning Filming Locations To See In New Zealand

@rotoruanz

Māori cultural experiences 

A luxury travel experience is also about immersing yourself in the rich cultural heritage of your destination. The Māori, New Zealand’s Indigenous people, have a deep connection to their land and traditions. You’ll get a richer insight through tailored cultural experiences. In Rotorua, you’ll wander through the ancient forest village with your local Māori guide and learn about Māori art forms and traditions. You’ll then experience a Hāngī feast, cooked traditionally in a pit oven using geothermal steam at Te Pā Tū, and witness a captivating Māori cultural performance as you dine. 

@rotoruanz

Experience the rugged luxury on a trip to New Zealand and embark on our The Long White Cloud luxury tour. In 19 extraordinary days, you’ll go from the Southern Alps and Franz Josef Glacier to the waterfalls of Milford Sound. Discover the volcanic craters of Waimangu Volcanic Valley, the wineries of Queenstown, and beyond.

Heed the call of the great outdoors and get back to nature at these luxurious retreats, immersed in the world’s most beautiful landscapes. From remote chalets in New Zealand’s Fiordland and lavish suites in Kruger National Park to a Nile River cruise and a garden oasis in Vietnam, these are some of the finest nature retreats you can experience with Luxury Gold. 

Milford Sound Lodge, Fiordland, New Zealand

@milfordsoundlodge

Take a journey to New Zealand’s extraordinary Fiordland National Park and discover the ultimate luxury nature retreat at Milford Sound Lodge. Set on the edge of the iconic Milford Sound and Milford Track, the lodge is surrounded by the rushing Cleddau River, ancient beech tree forest, waterfalls and towering mountains.

With few other buildings (or people) around, this is a rare opportunity to stay in the UNESCO-listed Fiordland. The beautiful, secluded chalets are right on the river and forest, with rushing waterfalls just steps away. With floor-to-ceiling windows and wide open decks to soak it all in, this nature retreat is an unparalleled experience.

Read more: The ultimate nature retreat: welcome to Milford Sound Lodge 

Experience it: The Long White Cloud

River Tosca, Nile River, Egypt

If you’re looking to reconnect with the great outdoors on the water, you’ll be drawn to Egypt’s Nile River. When you cruise the Nile with Luxury Gold, you’ll spend your nights onboard the deluxe River Tosca ship. This is where old-world elegance melds with modern luxuries, with stylish and spacious suites complemented by marble bathrooms. You’ll have a front-row seat to the Nile River as you relax on the sun deck in the pool or under shaded cabanas, watching the ever-changing scenery float by.

Experience it: Elegance of Egypt

The Fairmont Resorts, Banff National Park, Canada

@fairmontcll

Two of the most coveted nature retreats in the world are the Fairmont Château Lake Louise and Fairmont Banff Springs, both located in the UNESCO-listed Banff National Park. 

Fairmont Château Lake Louise is set on the shores of the dazzling Lake Louise. Enveloped by the most breathtaking scenery, you’ll feel completely immersed in the soaring mountains and glaciers at this historic hotel. This magnificent castle offers an exceptional experience, and you’ll have opportunities to spot local wildlife, enjoy a lakeside stroll with an award-winning naturalist, or ride a gondola above Lake Louise. 

@fairmontbanff

Less than an hour away, you’ll find the equally spectacular Fairmont Banff Springs. Known as Canada’s “Castle in the Rockies”, Fairmont Banff Springs sits at the base of Rundle Mountain. It’s ringed by lush forest and the turquoise Spray River. You’ll spend your days exploring the majesty of the Canadian Rockies, then enjoy an exquisite dinner of local specialities in the evening. 

Experience both resorts: Majesty of the Rockies

Lions Sands Tinga Lodge, Kruger National Park, South Africa  

@lionsandsgamereserve

There are few better places to reconnect with the great outdoors than at the luxurious Lions Sands Tinga Lodge. Set on the banks of the Sabie River in Kruger National Park, you can spot elephants, lions, leopards, buffalos and rhinos, all from your private deck and plunge pool in your grand suite. After spending your days on game drives, you can unwind in the afternoon at the lodge’s infinity pool, bar lounge, library or Africology Spa. As night falls, dine on South African cuisine by candlelight on the terrace, then drift off to the sounds of wild animals in the distance. 

Experience it: Spectacular South Africa

Pilgrimage Village, Hue, Vietnam

@pilgrimagevillageresort

Dreaming of escaping to the quiet countryside? Pilgrimage Village Boutique Resort & Spa is your oasis in Hue. Surrounded by lush, peaceful gardens, Pilgrimage Village is the perfect place to relax and unwind in nature. Wander under leafy trees and cycle past emerald rice fields. Soak in the steam bath or take part in meditation, yoga and tai chi classes in the gardens.

You can also venture to the nearby traditional garden houses of Phu Mong village and be serenaded by local musicians at the Ben Xuan Garden House Theatre. With Luxury Gold, you’ll enjoy a VIP visit to the Imperial Citadel and the royal tomb of Minh Mang. You’ll also meet the headmaster of the Vietnamese Royal Martial Arts Academy or a collector in his private museum, so you can combine the best of culture in the great outdoors on your getaway.

Experience it: Inspiring Indochina

Sails in the Desert, Uluru, Australia

@exploreuluru

Set in Australia’s Red Centre on Uluru doorstep, the five-star Sails in the Desert is an immersive nature retreat. While Uluru and the Kata Tjuṯa domes are the stars, this impressive resort amplifies the natural wonders. You’ll go on guided walks around Uluru and through whistling Walpa Gorge. Then enjoy sparkling wine and appetizers as you witness the enchanting sunset over Uluru. At sunrise, you’ll watch Bruce Munro’s Field of Light art installation of coloured glass spheres illuminate Uluru. From hearing the ancient stories of the Anangu people, the traditional guardians of the land, to experiencing the award-winning Sounds of Silence dinner, this is a mesmerising retreat in the Australian Outback.

Experience it: Inspiring Australia

Nahargarh Ranthambhore, Ranthambore National Park, India

@thealsisarnahargarh

Nestled in the foothills of Aravalli Range, right on the edge of Ranthambore National Park, this magnificent palace hotel offers a truly special experience in the great outdoors. Home to around 80 protected Bengal tigers, Ranthambore is one of the best places to see tigers in the wild.

You’ll explore the former royal hunting grounds of the Maharajahs of Jaipur with a Local Expert. Keep your eyes peeled for the elusive tigers on game drives, and also watch out for other animals like leopards and sloth bears. You’ll also see the ancient royal ruins dotted around the park from traditional Chhatri dome-shaped pavilions to a 1,000-year-old fort. In the evening, you’ll return to the elegant Nahargarh Ranthambhore to relax in the pool and superb restaurant. 

Experience it: Essence of India

Spending a weekend in Auckland? 48 hours in Auckland is just the right amount of time to take in the city’s many splendid sites, tempting flavors and rich history. Our New Zealand tours include the very best Auckland activities with a sprinkling of decadence. 

Your stay at QT Auckland invites you to soak in the energy of the water. Rooms draw inspiration from the shapes and curves of oysters with natural hues and soothing tones. At this 5-Star Design Hotel’s rooftop bar, take in sweeping views of Auckland’s Viaduct Harbour paired with Mediterranean snacks and classic cocktails. Continue your culinary tour at the hotel’s Restaurant Esther where head chef Sean Connolly presents flavors of the French Riviera, Sicily and Morocco. 

@qtauckland

 Another dining highlight of your tour will surely be dinner with one of New Zealand’s famous former All Black rugby players. Rub shoulders with a former member of the All Blacks as you learn about the world’s leading rugby team, his personal victories and how passionate Kiwis are about their national sport. 

Fine dining for a weekend in Auckland   

When it comes to fine dining in Auckland, why not go all out at the famous Sugar Club? Located in the Sky Tower, The Sugar Club sits 53 floors above Auckland boasting views of the city and the Hauraki Gulf. In addition to the impressive views, the impressive Chef’s menu showcases sustainably sourced produce. You’ll be in good hands of Chef Peter Gordon who has been called “the ‘Godfather’ of fusion cuisine.” From sashimi to beef fillet and a plant-based tasting menu, a decadent evening is always in store at The Sugar Club. 

@thesugarclubakl

Another option to pair fine dining with fabulous views is Sidart Restaurant. This New Zealand-Indian fusion restaurant offers imaginative cuisine including black truffle paneer, market fish tikka and crayfish and moilee sauce. Select a tasting menu from the five- or nine-course options with wine pairings. You may also opt for The Chef’s Table Experience to go behind the scenes and watch dishes being prepared in the kitchen and let the chef guide you through the menu. This exclusive dining experience, from Champagne on arrival to the final seventh course, is a memorable way to try the finest flavors.  

@sidart_auckland

Queen Street 

With one or two decadent dining experiences ticked off your bucket list, you’ll be ready to explore. You don’t have to venture far from the centrally located QT Auckland to find things to do in Auckland. Legendary and lively Queen Street in the Central Business District boasts high-end shops of international and local brands. Treat yourself to a designer bag and take a break in a café and watch the world go by. Extend your exploration with a visit to the nearby Auckland Art Gallery’s collection of international and New Zealand art on the edge of elegant Albert Park. On the other side of the park is Princes Street. Here, historic merchant’s houses from the late 1800s, now a heritage site, line the boulevard.  

@lex.moskov

Parnell  

Continue your discovery of what to do in Auckland exploring nearby Parnell, one of Auckland’s affluent and oldest neighborhoods. Stroll the tree-lined streets past Edwardian townhouses, restored Victorian shops, boutiques, and cafes. If you’re in Parnell over a weekend, don’t miss La Cigale French Market. Voted Auckland’s ‘Best Food Market’ by Metro Magazine, the market invites you to take your time browsing fresh produce, pâtés, terrines and pastries. You’ll feel like you’re in Paris as you absorb the sights and heavenly aromas. Take a rest at one of the market’s communal tables to enjoy a latte and croissant. The nearby Parnell Rose Gardens with over 5,000 roses enhances your decadent discovery. 

Parnell’s Auckland War Memorial Museum is another recommendation of what to see in Auckland. View the historic exhibits including an 80-foot Māori war canoe dating from 1836. Current and upcoming special exhibits include Secrets of Stonehenge and Egypt: In the Time of Pharaohs. 

Waitemata Harbor Cruise  

After soaking in the city sites on your weekend in Auckland, take to the water. A Waitemata Harbor cocktail or dinner cruise will show you the city from a different vantage point. Cruises also conveniently depart from near the city center. You’ll soon realize why Waitemata means “sparkling waters” in the Māori language. Onboard, take in the skyline framed against volcanic peaks. Sail under the Harbor Bridge sipping on cocktails and nibbling canapes. Glide past the North Head, Bean Rock Lighthouse and Devonport’s historic naval base. 

Rangitoto and Waiheke Islands  

If you have time for a daytime cruise on your weekend in Auckland, why not set sail to the picturesque Rangitoto and Waiheke Islands? The volcanic Rangitoto Island is covered in native forests and lava caves and displays 360-degree views of Auckland harbor.  

Heading further east, a 40-minute ferry ride to Waiheke Island, the “Hamptons of New Zealand,” will delight you with pastoral splendor. Visit one of the more than 40 vineyards and olive groves. Sample the local products and take home a bottle or two. Waiheke also offers many trails ideal for a jaunt up to the cliff tops or down to the beaches. Art lovers take note: every two years, Sculpture on the Gulf is held on the Matiatia Coastal Walkway for you to bask in works of contemporary art surrounded by bucolic scenery.  

 Whether you’re in search of fine dining or photo-ops, history or high-end shops, a weekend in Auckland will leave you satisfied. Let us show you what we love about New Zealand.