Relax, retreat, and take a tour around New Zealand in style.
Falcon Brae Villa
falconbraevilla.co.nz
A luxury stay awaits you. There are few places in the world where you can enjoy opulent luxury and true wilderness at the same time. Falcon Brae Villa is one.
Nestled in a secluded valley with panoramic views of soaring mountains and the mighty Motueka River, Falcon Brae Villa is a one-of-a-kind property.
Book a stay here and you can expect the ultimate luxury experience, flawless service and even a private chef. The villa itself is a sight to behold with its architectural design and unique elliptical falcon wing roofs. “There’s not a single person who doesn’t walk through the front door and say, ‘Wow’. It has 360-degree views over the mountains of Kahurangi National Park, and a quiet, calming atmosphere,” says managing director John Kerr.
Inside, there’s a central lounge with a 5m-high ceiling, sunken bar, grand piano, high-tech gym, media theatre, three dining areas, and a games room. The lush outdoor area boasts views of the mountains and Motueka River and includes an outdoor pool, heated spa, outdoor dining area, and even a helipad terrace.
Thanks to its location, 50 minutes from Nelson and between three of New Zealand’s most scenic national parks, there’s no shortage of incredible things to do. A short walk from the property, you’ll find some of New Zealand’s – and the world’s – best fly fishing in the Motueka River, known for its population of oversized wild brown trout.
Guests also have access to a helicopter for scenic heli-tours over the stunning Abel Tasman, Nelson Lakes and Kahurangi national parks, or get amongst it with walking, hiking, and cruising on the lakes.
Falcon Brae is less than an hour’s drive from 28 world-class wineries and has 24 boutique art and craft studios for guest to explore.
The villa is usually only available for exclusive use. For a limited time, individual suites can be booked at a fraction of the usual price and exclusive use is also available at a discounted rate. Large groups of up to 16 can book the villa and the adjacent Stonefly Lodge (owned and operated by John and Kate Kerr).
For bookings and more information visit falconbraevilla.co.nz or contact John Kerr on (03) 522 4479 or at info@falconbraevilla.co.nz.
Koukoulee Retreats
koukoulee.co.nz
Of all the restful wonders on Waiheke Island, just a 35-minute ferry ride from downtown Auckland, Koukoulee stands out as one of the best. Fitting then, that the name comes from the Greek for ‘cocoon’ – for that’s exactly the aura that this charming wellness retreat projects.
Each of Koukoulee’s wellness retreats, designed for private groups of six or more, can be tailored to suit all needs and intentions. Everything is planned to the last detail ensuring an experience that’s as luxurious as it is healthy, combining the best of the island’s accommodation, cuisine, yoga, and massage.
The philosophy at Koukoulee is one of light-hearted wellness, an approach that enables the opportunity to unwind and relax while removing the pressure to achieve. It’s exactly what Kiwis – and Aucklanders especially – need after these torrid few months. The ‘cocoon’ awaits on Waiheke.
Rotorua Koura Lodge
kouralodge.co.nz
Get a taste for life by the water with a relaxing, romantic escape to Koura Lodge — a boutique bed and breakfast on the edge of Lake Rotorua. With only eight rooms – all with 180-degree lake views – an outdoor hot tub and kayaks available for guests, this intimate lodge transports you to the heart of a natural wonderland, yet it’s just a five-minute drive from the town centre.
Unwind in the peaceful surrounds or ignite your sense of curiosity and explore this idyllic destination. Rotorua is a place where fascinating Māori culture, geothermal activity, adrenalinefuelled adventure, and wellness come together to create an experience to remember.
Lodge Rooms are the ideal couple’s retreat, this intimate yet generous lodge-style space is the perfect spot to admire Lake Rotorua without needing to leave your room.
Suite Rooms beautifully positioned and offer exceptional views of the lake, and features a separate lounge with a day bed, plush bedding and a private ensuite.
The Apartment is perfectly equipped for families and groups. Savour stunning views from your private balcony in this two-bedroom apartment with space for up to six. Enjoy the expansive lounge with pool table, full kitchen and dining area.
Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat
mtcookretreat.nz
Take the time to revive your body, mind, and spirit in the heart of the Mackenzie Region at one of New Zealand’s best luxury getaways – Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat. Breathtaking scenery and delicious cuisine awaits beneath clear, starry skies and ancient glacial landscapes.
Three luxury two-bedroom villas between Lake Pūkaki and Ben Ohau Range each accommodate four guests. The Ashley Mackenzie Villa offers views of Lake Pūkaki and Aoraki, with private access to the Fantail Spa, its outdoor hot tub, sauna, massage, and exercise facilities. Villas Matariki and Tautoru overlook Mackenzie Basin and Ben Ohau Range – both villas have private outdoor spa pools.
Massage and yoga treatments, based on holistic therapies, connect guests to their wairua (spirit) and the natural environment, encouraging a sense of hauora (wellbeing). Stargazing from the retreat’s Wine Cellar Observatory is a uniquely spectacular experience, while our fine dining dishes are crafted using seasonal produce from local producers and our Edenic on-site garden.
Treat that special person in your life to something unique – Gift Vouchers are available and may be used for stargazing, a cooking demonstration, or supper club event.
Cloud 9
cloud9.co.nz
A stunning villa with the ‘wow’ factor, you’ll be awed by the elegant, contemporary interior that creates a feeling of sophisticated simplicity and spacious luxury.
Surrounded on three sides by decking and terracing, the spectacular sea views will captivate from sunrise to sunset. Relax in the gorgeous infinity pool and luxurious spa, and, as night falls, view the spectacular night skies and hear the iconic kiwi foraging through the surrounding bush.
Cloud 9 is air-conditioned, features a gas fire for those cooler evenings and includes a fully integrated entertainment system with complimentary Wi-Fi.
The master bedroom opens to a private, furnished deck with breathtaking sea views. Two additional ocean view bedrooms on the main level open to decks. Robes, slippers and L’Occitane toiletries add to the ambience of a luxury hotel experience.
Whether travelling with family, a group of friends, or simply seeking a romantic break in luxurious surroundings, Cloud 9 Luxury Villa offers space for up to six guests.
Outdoor sofas, a barbecue, dining table and chairs entice guests to dine al fresco under the stars.
Black Swan Lakeside Boutique Hotel
blackswanhotel.co.nz
This chic, contemporary romantic hotel is situated in a serene lakeside setting on the edge of Lake Rotorua. Expansive grounds include rose gardens, sweeping lawns, a swimming pool, the grotto with its spa pools, and a sandy lakefront beach.
Eight beautifully appointed guest rooms, together with the garden suite, offer views to the lake, or the manicured gardens and pool.
Wake to the lake in the luxurious lakefront suites located at the edge of Lake Rotorua. Full glass sliders open to a beautiful intimate lake view.
Lakeview rooms open to an outdoor fireplace – the perfect spot to enjoy a glass of wine and take in the views of the lake.
Pool view rooms open to outdoor terraces facing the swimming pool and offer glimpses of the lake across the sweeping lawns.
Enjoy the luxury of your in-room fireplace, stone soaker bathtub or monsoon shower. Luxury toiletries, bath robes and slippers add a touch of luxe.
Travelling with family or a group of friends? Look at the two-bedroom Garden Suite.
Relax in the conservatory, read a book by the pool, or unwind in the spa baths in the grotto.
Head out to Rotorua city and dine at local restaurants and cafes. Return to the luxury of your room, snuggle into a robe with a coffee or wine and wake to a gourmet breakfast, taking in the beautiful lake views. You’re ready to get out and enjoy all that Rotorua has to offer.
Floatplanes depart from the hotel’s private jetty for scenic flights over Rotorua. Or consider a heli-tour from Rotorua airport for enjoy spectacular aerial views of stunning crater lakes, or land on Mt Tarawera.
Gift vouchers available for that special occasion – upgrade to a lake view room, dinner, or a bottle of champagne.
Pen-y-bryn Lodge
penybryn.co.nz
Experience Waitaki with its evocative ‘Valley of the Whales’, wineries, and historic and artsy town of Ōamaru.
New Zealand’s seaside town of Ōamaru is known for fascinating heritage and eccentric humour, raw natural beauty, vibrant arts and delectable cuisine.
Lonely Planet guide has described Ōamaru as “New Zealand’s coolest town”. The architecture, wildlife, culture cuisine and natural landscape—there is nothing else like this incredible small Kiwi town.
Pen-y-bryn Lodge was built as a private residence in 1889 and is one of Australasia’s largest single storey timber dwellings. We’re passionate about our property and ensuring that our guests leave with fond memories of their stay with us. We have made every effort to make this stunning estate as comfortable for modern guests as possible, while keeping true to our historical underpinnings.
Each lodge room offers sumptuous comfort to make your stay here as relaxing as it is inspiring and invigorating. It’s the small details that make a big difference, we think, and we relish the opportunity to delight our guests at every turn.
Cuisine is a highlight of your stay at Pen-y-bryn. Dinner here is a celebration of the lost art of conversation, culinary excellence, and refined yet unfussy table service in our richly designed dining room.
Bordered by the stunning coastline of the Pacific, Ōamaru offers nature lovers the chance to explore nesting colonies of both little blue penguins and yellow-eyed penguins. The famed Ōamaru limestone architecture houses the cool and quirky world of steampunk and plenty of fashion, art and cuisine discoveries. This is New Zealand’s best-preserved example of a Victorian streetscape and it’s unique and captivating.
At night, be awed by our clear dark skies with a private stargazing experience just outside our doorstep.
Gift Vouchers are available to purchase a complete stay, or contribute to part of a stay at Pen-y-bryn Lodge, and can be issued in any value you like, such as to fund a room upgrade, a dinner, or a bottle of wine—the choice is yours!
The Boatshed Hotel
boatshed.co.nz
The Boatshed Hotel has quietly been looking after guests for almost 20 years. It’s the sort of place that feels like you’ve discovered a little secret that no one knows about as you enter through its doors.
Tucked away on a quiet hillside overlooking Little Oneroa, the hotel’s a short stroll to the island village and close to local vineyards, eateries, and relaxing beaches and coves.
Nostalgic seaside buildings from boatsheds to bungalows to cottages and viewing towers all offer something different. Like a good bach, it shows its slow evolution – feeling thoroughly modern yet effortlessly timeless, with little details highly considered.
Waiheke has always provided a relaxed pace. Once you get away from the bustling ferries and busy vineyards, The Boatshed really feels like somewhere it’s okay to just do nothing, to take in a slow holiday vibe as you wander the garden, dive into the library of books, quietly enjoy a meal, or just sit and be.
No other location feels so far away, yet so close to home. Savour relaxed, sophisticated sand-between-your-toes luxury in this sleepy little gem.
The Boatshed Hotel, Waiheke Is., New Zealand
0064 9 372 3242
enquiries@boatshed.co.nz
boatshed.co.nz
