5 Most Luxurious Hotels in New Zealand
19/08/2013by guest blogger Kristy Alexander
There are a surprising number of hotels in the luxury market in New Zealand and I am certain that the quality will far exceed your expectations. Most luxurious is really a matter of personal opinion and because of that there are so many hotels that could easily qualify for this list. These are simply my 5 favourites in the luxury category.
The Langham, Auckland (now Cordis Auckland)
There’s something about old style grandeur that I love and The Langham has it in spades. Situated in the city of Auckland, The Langham has a selection of suites to suit any luxury customer. The pièce de résistance is the Royal Suite which includes a butler’s kitchen, separate bedroom and dining room, foyer, jacuzzi and walk in robe. Suites come with all the benefits of The Langham Club including a continental breakfast in the morning, drinks and canapés in the evening and a butler service for the duration of your stay.
Blanket Bay, Glenorchy, Otago
The view from this hotel will quite simply take your breath away. Located only 45 mins from Queenstown this hotel is more an old style luxury lodge built to integrate with the surrounding environment. It has been done so well it quite honestly looks a part of the scenery. The lodge is on the edge of Lake Wakatipu and nestled between the snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps. There are Lodge Rooms, Suites and then the magical Chalets. Chalets are standalone structures that include two 700 sq ft suites that can be combined with a central living room if you have multiple guests in your party. The lodge is almost a child free zone (only guests 10 years and over allowed) and has limited number rooms available. It is exceptionally exclusive.
Eichardt’s Private Hotel, Queenstown
If staying in the thick of it all is your thing then Eichardt’s Private Hotel located right in the heart of the Queenstown restaurant and cafe precinct is the luxury choice you are seeking. The hotel is located right on the lake and is famed for its ability to mix old style opulence and glamour with all the offerings of a modern establishment. This is a smaller, exclusive facility with only a limited number of accommodation options available: specifically 5 suites, 4 lakefront apartments. There is also The Residence. The Residence is a short distance from the hotel and is set across 3 levels with views of the Remarkables, Queenstown Bay and Gardens. A chef can be arranged to cook a private dinner in your personal kitchen equipped with its own Nespresso machine and pods. With floor to ceiling windows and your own private gas fire and balcony, the master suite here is divine.
The Huka Lodge, Taupo
The Huka Lodge has been around since the 1920s and is considered to be the luxury retreat of the country. Quite the reputation and very well deserved. The lodge is situated right above the Huka Falls on the Waikoto River and 17 acres of flawlessly manicured grounds. There are 25 rooms in total including one exclusive suite and two grand Huka Cottages. The cottages contain either 2 or 4 bedrooms, depending on which one you choose. The decor is superb. Butler service and chef are available if required.
Treetops Lodge & Estate, Rotorua
As the name suggest Treetops Lodge & Estate is nestled in the tranquility of the local bushland, the treetops so to speak. The lodge has completely captured that feeling of a hideaway, or a sanctuary and you will feel relaxed in your surroundings from the moment you arrive. The estate is the result of one man’s dream to preserve this natural habitat, the playground of his childhood, for people to enjoy for generations to come. If you are looking for the most exclusive luxury option then you must stay at the Pheasant Cottage. The cottage comes fully equipped and there is space for up to 8 guests. A personal chef and cottage assistant can be arranged for your stay.
