NEW ZEALAND

North Island | Bay of Islands | South Island

New Zealand is a country of rare seismic beauty: glacial mountains, fast-flowing rivers, deep, clear lakes, hissing geysers and boiling mud. There are also abundant forest reserves, long, deserted beaches and a variety of fauna, such as the kiwi, endemic to its shores.

Any number of vigorous outdoor activities - tramping (hiking), skiing, rafting and, of course, that perennial favourite, bungy jumping - await the adventurous. You can swim with dolphins, gambol with newborn lambs, whalewatch or fish for fattened trout in the many streams.

The people, bound in a culture that melds European with Maori ancestry, are resourceful, helpful and overwhelmingly friendly. The extraordinary place names - try Te Awamutu, Whangamomona or Paekakariki for tongue-trippers - are resonant and, with a modicum of practice, easy to pronounce.

Because it's such a compact place, travel within New Zealand - whether by plane, bus, rail, car or bicycle - is affordable and efficient. Accommodation too is cheap and varied. And the culinary promise of venison, fresh seafood, sublime ice cream and award-winning wines should more than whet the appetite.

New Zealand's spectacularly beautiful landscape includes vast mountain chains, steaming volcanoes, sweeping coastlines, deeply indented fiords and lush rainforests.

Comparable in size and/or shape to Great Britain, Colorado or Japan, New Zealand has a population of only 3.8 million - making it one of the world's least crowded countries. It is a haven for those seeking peace, rejuvenation and relaxation as well as a playground for thrill seekers and adventurers. A temperate climate with relatively small seasonal variation makes it an ideal year-round holiday destination.

North Island

Auckland

Imagine an urban environment where everyone lives within half an hour of beautiful beaches, hiking trails and a dozen enchanted holiday islands. Add a sunny climate, a background rhythm of Polynesian culture and a passion for outstanding food, wine and shopping – you’re beginning to get the picture of Auckland.

Auckland’s blend of islands, Polynesian culture, glistening harbours and modern city environment creates an unbelievable lifestyle ranked amongst the best in the world. Discover why Auckland is one of the best places in the world to live – and visit. 

Stamford Plaza - 5 Star

Location:

Five-star, world-class luxury in the heart of the city, only minutes walk to the American Express Viaduct Harbour, boutique shopping and nightlife. Ranked among the world's "Top 500 Hotels of the World' and voted "Best Business Hotel 2003" by Travel + Leisure. Located in Auckland's downtown business and shopping district, close to the venue for the 1999 and 2002-3 America's Cup event.

Accommodation:

332 rooms offering a choice of superb deluxe rooms and spacious suites all with separate bath and shower. All rooms include large desks with modem connections and complimentary plunger coffee.

Facilities:

• Modern fitness centre
• Spa
• Heated rooftop pool
• Business centre
• Room service
• Meeting & conference facilities
• Valet parking

Dining:

• Yanrepe Champagne Bar
• Patisserie
• The Brasserie (award winning restaurant)
• Winstons Cigar Lounge
• Live entertainment

Mollies - Luxury Guest House

Location:

Small, perfectly formed and versed in the traditions of fine hospitality, Mollies features centuries old antiques and sleek modern furniture sitting companionably side by side. Luxuriously appointed, spacious suite-style accommodation is perfect for an indulgent sojourn - or it can easily accommodate a private reception or other special event.

Accommodation:

Accommodation at Mollies comprises of six Harbour Suites, one Terrace Suite, two Garden Suites and five Studios.

Harbour Suites feature a harbour aspect, spacious lounge and separate bed-room, and ensuite bathroom. A fireplace and grand piano grace the lounge of the premium Terrace Suite, with access to its own terrace from both lounge and bedroom.

Garden Suites overlook the gardens, and consist of two bedrooms and ensuite bathroom. These rooms are suitable for up to four adult guests.

Studios feature a combined bedroom and lounge space, along with ensuite bathroom.

Facilities:

• High speed internet access
• Off street parking
• Drawing room
• Cooked breakfast provided
• Meeting suites
• Member of Small Luxury Hotels

Dining:

• Private guest bar
• Dining salon
• Private dining options

Hilton Auckland - 5 Star

Location:

Hilton Auckland, a contemporary boutique 166 room hotel located 300 metres out to sea on Princes Wharf, within an easy walk to Auckland's CBD and viaduct village.

Accommodation:

A contemporary, luxury boutique style hotel featuring 138 King bedded and 20 twin bedded stylish guest rooms, plus 8 suites. The hotel brings to Auckland a new hotel experience for the international and local business and leisure traveler. In addition, the hotel manages 67 serviced one, two and three bedroom apartments, also located on Wharf.

Guest rooms feature custom woven carpets, local timber finishes, neutral chic furnishings and spacious contemporary 4-point bathroom. Each room has a walk out balcony. Working desks with data points, in-room safe, coffee and tea making facilities, mini-bars, satellite television and pay movies.

Facilities:

• Room service
• Laundry service
• Business centre
• Fitness room
• Pool

Dining:

• White (harbour views)

Umoya Lodge - 5 Star

Location:

Set atop Mount Rataroa, just one hour’s drive south of Auckland towards the Coromandel, sits Umoya Lodge. This remote and idyllic luxury lodge draws its name from the Zulu word ‘umoja’, meaning soul, spirit and breath. True to its name, this is a place of absolute tranquility, breathtaking scenery and luxurious escapism.

Accommodation:

Surrounded by 35 acres of native bush, the Lodge's spectacular elevated position affords both stunning sea views to the Coromandel and Pacific Ocean as well as across rustic New Zealand farmland as far as the eye can see. As you wind your way up through the peaceful wood pigeon dell on arrival, you feel blissfully transported... as though you've discovered a well kept secret.

Guests stay in a single luxury guest suite, providing a king bedroom, a bathroom fitted with double spa bath and shower, and a generously sized dining and living room.

Every attention to detail has been seen to in the suite. The bed is made up with the highest quality bedlinen and the bathroom offers sumptuous bathrobes, aromatherapy oils and an open shower overlooking a private watergarden. To add to your comfort, there is underfloor heating throughout.

The suite also provides a concealed but fully equipped kitchen and a comprehensive selection of audiovisual facilities, including satellite television, CD and DVD players, internet and fax.  Guests can relax and unwind in complete seclusion, surrounded by antiques, oriental rugs and international artworks, while enjoying the finest in complimentary port, tea and coffee, homemade chocolates and biscuits.

Facilities:

• Bush walking & birdwatching in the grounds
• Yoga
• Massage treatments
• Diet & health assements
• Lodge studio for stained glass
• Local tours

Dining:

• Table d'hote Cuisine

Lake Taupo Lodge - 4 Star

Location:

Lake Taupo lodge is a lodge of unsurpassed luxury, set on an idyllic property that celebrates comfort, seclusion, elegance and indulgent hospitality. The Lodge is set overlooking Lake Taupo, within easy reach of the many attractions. Approximately 5 kms from the Taupo township in Acacia Bay. Complimentary transfers are available from Taupo Airport.

Lake Taupo is one of the New Zealand's finest recreational playgrounds and is reputed as being one of the best trout fishing areas in the world. The sweeping landscapes and exotic geothermal areas provide a wealth of unique activities that capture the imagination of all who come here.

Accommodation:

The focus is on gracious living and the seven guest rooms are luxurious examples of this. All are en-suite, have every up-to-date facility and enjoy superb views towards the spectacular blue waters of Lake Taupo. A therapeutic relaxed atmosphere assures one of a memorable stay. All the executive suites have a King sized bed or two single beds, telephone, writing table and chairs, fridge, mini bar, tea and coffee facilities, alarm clock, iron and ironing board.

The ensuite bathrooms have under floor heating, luxurious bathrobes, toiletries and hairdryer. Four of the executive suites have large baths as well as walk in showers. The others have large walk in showers. Fresh flowers, seasonal fruit, milk and homemade cookies are in the room every day along with a selection of teas and coffee.

Facilities:

• Trout Fishing
• Wairakei International golf course nearby
• Billiard Table
• Games Room
• Library
• Small Gym area
• Outdoor tennis court
• Garden walk
• Business facilities
• Hiking nearby
• Lake Cruises

Dining:

• Restaurant
• Buffet breakfast
• Bar

Bay of Islands

The Bay of Islands enjoys a sub-tropical climate. There are 140 islands which holiday makers who enjoy sea activities and the beauty of the sandy beaches can visit by yacht or cruise. Paihia and Russell are the main visitor and accommodation centres for the Bay of Islands and are the starting points for many sightseeing cruises, boat hires, diving and swimming with the dolphins excursions. A popular day excursion is the Cape Reinga is a trip to the northernmost point of New Zealand and can also include a drive along Ninety Mile Beach. Within walking distance of Paihia is Waitangi, which also offers accommodation, and it is here that the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840, joining the Maori and British peoples together as a nation. The Treaty House is now a museum and is part of the Waitangi Reserve, along with a Maori meeting house and an impressive 120 feet (37 metre) 150-man canoe launched each Waitangi Day (February 6) - New Zealand's national day.

Cliff Edge by the Sea - 5 Star

Location:

A luxuriously appointed 5 Star Boutique Lodge, without the "5 star attitude and prices". Sitting on a promontory with perhaps the grandest views over the Bay of Islands, Cliff Edge offers a harmonious combination of relaxed elegant accommodation;professional personable from the heart service;million dollar views;and simply the best in cooking. With an innovative "mediterrasian" inspired cuisine and excellent wines.

Accommodation:

The brief to Bob Traviss, one of Northland's foremost architects, was to get as close to the water as possible and make the most of the views.  The owners opened Cliff Edge as a Guest lodge for the 2000 summer season.  The result is a beautiful, contemporary four-level structure set on a promontory with little visible land below, giving the appearance the building (an architectural, engineering and construction triumph) is sitting on the water. The uninterrupted 220 degrees water views from the lodge are spectacular, looking across to Opua harbour, Waikere, Okiato and further out the bay towards Russell, Paihia and Waitangi.

The design of Cliff Edge is contemporary, with a huge guest lounge, dining room and state-of-the-art open-plan kitchen. Each of the five tastefully furnished bedrooms has it's own bathroom and private balcony, and all the creature comforts one would expect from a 5-star establishment. The use of native timbers throughout the building, as well as the many beautiful antiques, persian rugs and comfortable soft furnishings add warmth, elegance and a rich cosy homely ambience.

Facilities:

• Sauna
• Jacuzzi
• Library
• Local tours
• Fishing
• Internet access
• Piano
• Open wood fire

Dining:

• Complimentary open bar
• Restaurant (specialises in local seafood)

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South Island

Christchurch

A unique blend of historic charm and exciting city life. A delicate balance of hustle and bustle with fresh tranquility. All the facilities and none of the frustrations. This will weave a spell on you and leave you enchanted. This is Christchurch... the Southern Alps provides a fantastic backdrop to the city. Perched on the coast, the city is the doorway to the Canterbury Plains, which spread westwards towards the mountains. To the south-east, Banks Peninsula, formed by two huge volcanic craters, extends into the Pacific Ocean. Nature has been kind to this part of New Zealand and it is nature that offers the richest rewards for the visitor.

The area has many unique attractions to invigorate the body and stimulate the mind. Swim with dolphins, drift along the Avon River in a punt or enjoy the twin pleasures of a massage and relaxing soak in the thermal reserve in the spa town of Hanmer Springs. The City also has a well deserved reputation for beautiful parks and gardens, taking on the name of "The Garden City."  

Rydges Hotel Christchurch - 4/5 Star

Location:

Rydges Christchurch enjoys a reputation as one of the South Island's finest hotels. The Hotel is ideally located in the central business district and overlooks the picturesque Avon River. It is only a few minutes walk to the shopping and restaurant district.

Accommodation:

Guest rooms feature Colour TV, radio, STD/IDD telephone, Coffee/Tea Making Facilities, mini-Bar/Refrigerator, hairdryer, air conditioning/Heating and Iron/Ironing Board.

Facilities:

• 24 Hours Reception
• Unlimited Parking
• Facilities for Disabled
• Baby Sitting
• Restaurant/Bar
• In Room Safes
• Meeting Rooms
• Doctor and Nurse
• Sports Facilities Nearby    

George Hotel - 5 Star

Location:

A small luxurious hotel that re-writes the meaning of hospitality within New Zealand. Accommodation located picturesquely in the heart of Christchurch overlooking it's very own "Central Park," this very individual boutique hotel, is just a step away from all the key attractions including the tram, arts market, restaurants, theatres and gardens. You can enjoy a stroll around the historic Arts Centre, just a few steps from the hotel, an exhilarating tour of the unique Antartic Centre or a day trip on the world renowned Tranz Alpine train journey.

Accommodation:

Guest rooms provide Remote controlled air conditioning, tile bathroom with bath and shower, luxury toiletries, Cable television, STD/IDD telephone, radio, modem connection points, security safe, mini bar, Snack facilities, toaster, Self service laundry, Ironing board, hairdryer and daily newspaper.

Facilities:

• Meeting rooms
• Lobby shop
• 24 hour room service
• Access to Clarendon Health Club
• Sauna
• Spa
• Massage
• Sunbed
• Tennis court
• Free car parking

Dining:

• 2 award winning restaurants
• Bar

Otahuna Lodge - 5 Star

Location:

Just 20 minutes from Christchurch and almost hidden by glorious century-old gardens is one of New Zealand’s most important historic homes and best kept secrets; Otahuna Lodge.  Having been lovingly restored to her original grandeur, but boasting all the modern amenities you would expect in an exclusive luxury lodge, Otahuna offers a unique New Zealand experience. The lodge is set in century old gardens, gardens from which inspiration is drawn to create fabulous food and wine.

Accommodation:

Each one of Otahuna’s rooms tells a story. From the palatial York Suite with fireplaces and French doors out onto the main verandah, to the Alpine Suite, tucked up under the eaves across split levels and boasting stunning views.
Each of Otahuna’s seven suites has a distinctive character and reveals a different element of the Otahuna story. Original fireplaces, some in the ensuite bathrooms, super king beds, and spectacular views add to the feeling of luxury and elegance.

Facilities:

• The Day Spa
• Gymnasium
• Horse riding
• Fishing

Dining:

• Gourmet restaurant
• Wine cellar

Queenstown

Queenstown is an exhilarating, year round, alpine resort, perfect for adventurers and leisure seekers alike.Nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, overlooked by the majestic Southern Alps, the town was named because "...it was fit for Queen Victoria." Queenstown is today recognised internationally as New Zealand's premier visitor destination. Queenstown has more than just breathtaking scenery and a diverse range of attractions, it's the people visitors find enchanting. In fact in 1998, Queenstown was again voted Friendliest Foreign City in a poll of 37,000 readers of Conde Nast Traveler, a top US Travel Publication. Queenstown first won the award in 1996.

In the same publication Queenstown was positioned the 14th best city in the world alongside such names as Vienna, London, Paris and Hong Kong. It was the only New Zealand destination to rank in the World's top 20.  Bungy Jump from the world's first commercial bungy site, swoop and soar in your own controllable "rocket", whitewater raft or surf, jet boat down canyons, tandem hanglide or parapente...it simply doesn't stop! Long walks, four wheel drive treks, or lunch on a majestic steamboat, you choose, it's your holiday.

Over the hill but not very far from Queenstown you will find the peace and tranquility of the small town of Wanaka with its crystal clear lake and dramatic mountain landscape. Further abroad, discover the mysteries of stunning Fiordland.Enjoy a cruise on a spectacular sound, have a close encounter with seals and dolphins which often frequent the area.

Eichardts Private Hotel - 5 Star

Location:

The historic building is in the premium lakefront position at the heart of Queenstown's café and restaurant precinct, with some of the finest international shopping labels an easy stroll away.

Accommodation:

The hotel reflects contemporary provincial elegance, its modern features in perfect harmony with distinctive antiques and luxurious furnishings of this New Zealand icon.

The rooms all feature a super-king bed, fireplace and mini-bar, a dressing room and bathroom with generous bath and double vanity, separate shower, heated mirror and floor. Each one is fully entertainment and business integrated with personal audiovisual systems, along with email and Internet access. 

Facilities:

• Deep tissue massage
• Open log fire in The Parlour
• Jet boat rides
• Hiking

Dining:

• House Bar
• Restaurant nearby

Villa South Pacific Wanaka - 5 Star

Location:

Only 8 minutes by helicopter from Queenstown Airport or a beautiful scenic drive of 40 minutes over the Crown Range. The Villa is tucked away at the foot of a large mountain range yet commands Breathtaking Views of Lake Wanaka and the snow capped Southern Alps.
Five of New Zealand's best recreational and Nordic ski fields (from 20 mins drive). Complete villa is excellent for families or private groups for winter skiing or summer activities.

Accommodation:

Honeymoon Suite - Wheelchair access. King Size Bed, white plaster walls, Jarrah wooded floors and shutters, crisp white linen, large marble ensuite with spa bath.

Lake View Suite - King size bed plus Single with ensuite, doors opening to balcony with mountain lake and rural views, white and blue decor for relaxation, wooden shutters, crisp white linen, tiled ensuite with bath.

Mountain View Suite - Queen size bed, tiled ensuite,white plaster walls,wooden shutters with mountain and rural views.

Balcony Twin Room - Twin beds with double doors opening to tiled balcony and stunning views of lake, mountains and town.

Studio-extra - Fold out double or relaxtion and reading room, also has double doors opening to tiled balcony with views of lake, mountains and town.

Facilities:

• Outdoor jacuzzi with magnificent views
• Outdoor heated pool
• The Gazebo (also with views)
• Grass tennis court
• Mountain bikes
• Double garage
• Laundry facilities
• Large spacious lounge and dining room

Dining:

• BBQ
• Alfresco dining
• Gourmet dining 

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