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Lucky us! New Zealand is blessed with some of the most luxurious, scenic resorts in the world, so newlyweds won’t need to travel far for a honeymoon that ticks all the boxes.
Starting from the top of our beautiful country and working our way down, here are a handful of our favourite spots, all boasting stunning settings, deluxe accommodation and plenty of premium extras from breathtaking views and gourmet meals to outdoor adventures, infinity pools and indulgent spas.
Matakauri Lodge, Queenstown
On the same lovely lake but around the bend in Queenstown, Matakauri is all about welcoming, understated luxury. Four suites are located within the main lodge, the rest sit on the banks of Lake Wakatipu overlooking the mountain panorama. All feature private balconies, oversized baths (with knockout views) and open fireplaces. Finish off your spa treatment with relaxation time in the adjacent sauna, hot tub or heated swimming pool… and do not miss dinner! The menu changes daily, utilises seasonal local produce, and guests can choose from a variety of dining spaces including the library, dining room, Remarkables patio, courtyard or lounge, with private dining arranged upon request.
Reopening 1 October, 2020. robertsonlodges.com/the-lodges/matakauri
Kauri Cliffs, Bay of Islands
Named in the top five resorts in Australasia in Travel + Leisure magazine’s 2019 ‘World’s Best’ awards, this stylish property sits atop cliffs overlooking the pristine coastline of the Bay of Islands.
Accommodation options include suites, villas or the Owner’s Cottage, all designed by celebrated interior decorator Virginia Fisher with spacious bathrooms and east-facing balconies offering magnificent sea views. As well as access to tennis courts, walking trails, three private beaches and a fitness centre with an indoor heated lap pool, jacuzzi and sauna, Kauri Cliffs guests also have access to The Spa, nestled at the edge of a tranquil totara forest and offering massage, facials, hydrotherapy and more.
Reopening 1 October, 2020. robertsonlodges.com/the-lodges/kauri-cliffs
Cape Kidnappers, Hawke’s Bay
Another next-level clifftop haven, the multi award-winning Cape Kidnappers boasts a working farm setting, exceptional views and a globally renowned golf course. The sumptuous accommodation in a variety of suites or the palatial Owner’s Cottage has a sophisticated country feel and is located within easy access to lodge facilities including a gymnasium, pool, spa and library. Take time to simply relax in blissful comfort or try out some of the many activities on offer from shepherding to horse riding, clay bird shooting to Can-Am rides.
robertsonlodges.com/the-lodges/cape-kidnappers
Huka Lodge, Taupo
Established in 1924 as a simple fishing lodge on the banks of the Waikato river, nearly 100 years on the Huka Lodge is now internationally synonymous with unparalleled hospitality. The 20 chic Virginia Fisher-designed suites open directly onto the river, and every detail required for ultimate comfort has been carefully considered, from feather pillows and the finest monogrammed bed linen to freshly baked biscuits. Dining on-site is a must-do, presented in over 20 romantic private dining venues to be found both indoors and outdoors throughout the property – beside the river, in the wine cellar, at the jetty pavilion or beside one of the outdoor fireplaces. Guests also have access to the extensive landscaped grounds, a swimming pool, spa pools, tennis, croquet and pétanque courts, a library and a study.
Wharekauhau Lodge, Wairarapa
An hour and a half’s scenic drive from Wellington, Wharekauhau sits on 3000 acres of private land with ancient forests, sloping pastures, peaceful lakes and the wild and beautiful coastline of Palliser Bay. The elegant Edwardian-style lodge is set high on a hill, with sparkling sea from every vantage point. The 16 Luxury Cottage suites are designed with cosy comfort in mind, each featuring open gas fireplaces, deep sofas, fluffy pillows, heated marble floors, rich New Zealand wool carpeting and the Lodge’s famous homemade cookies. Indulge in a treatment at the on-site Hauora Spa, take a dip in the heated pool, enjoy a spot of tennis or croquet or head out into the surrounding wine country.
Split Apple Retreat, Golden Bay
Conde Nast Traveller magazine described Split Apple Retreat “one of the most serene and restful places to stay in the entire hemisphere” and we totally agree. With a focus on health and wellbeing, every aspect of the lodge revolves around relaxation – from the saltwater infinity swimming pool and Japanese spa overlooking the Abel Tasman National Park and Tasman Bay to a FAR-infrared sauna, steam room, yoga pavilion and meditation theatre.
Each of Split Apple’s three Japanese-inspired, contemporary guest suites has two private decks and fragrant gardens overlooking the sea, and the exceptional cuisine is a fusion of culinary artistry and clever nutrition, designed to deliciously nourish body and soul.
Treetops Lodge and Estate, Rotorua
A very special spot set in 2500 acres of native bush, rolling hills and grassland, Treetops offers peaceful villas surrounded by birdsong and natural beauty, lavishly comfortable lodge rooms, the rustically charming Pheasant Cottage – or take over the entire lodge wing of the Owner’s Retreat. All accommodation options feature delightful details like handmade New Zealand rugs and decadent stand-alone bathtubs. Spend time getting truly relaxed and rejuvenated in the ‘wilderness’ spa, with signature treatments that draw on traditional Maori practices or make the most of the incredible outdoor setting with walks, horse riding, mountain biking or wild food experiences.
Reopening for single-couple stays October/November 2020, earlier for group/wedding bookings. treetops.co.nz
Blanket Bay Lodge, Glenorchy
Even the name Blanket Bay sounds comforting, so guests may not be surprised to find themselves in the lap of luxury at this Glenorchy lodge, situated on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by some of New Zealand’s most remote and pristine wilderness. Beamed ceilings, large open log fireplaces and floor-to-ceiling windows provide a true lodge experience, and the lake outlook will take your breath away. For those wanting plenty of space and privacy, the Chalet Suites blend colonial New Zealand architecture with modern comforts, and can be combined with a living room to create an even larger Chalet Stateroom. Book in a manuka honey facial, sea salt body scrub or reflexology massage at one of the therapy rooms or head out to experience some of the Southern Lakes’ wild adventures.
