New Zealand is known for its stunning scenery, often featured in movies and TV shows that glorify our otherworldly landscapes and ecosystems. In 2024 alone, New Zealand has been voted the ‘Most Beautiful Country in the World’ by Rough Guides, the ‘Best Value Destination’ for 2024 by Loney Planet, and has also won numerous awards for being home to some of the most elite, luxurious and accessible experiences. , restaurants and activities are offered by the world. Let’s explore some of New Zealand’s most famous and prestigious luxury tourism offers that are sure to end up on your next itinerary when traveling to New Zealand.
Travel to the most beautiful country in the world and get your money’s worth!
This year, NZ was named the most beautiful country in the world by Rough Guides, and it’s not hard to see why. The country has an extremely diverse collection of landscapes ranging from snowy mountain landscapes and geothermal terraces to tropical beaches. New Zealand, seemingly very different from the rest of the world, is a country that is guaranteed to inspire any traveler who travels here.
The iconic Lonely Planet has named New Zealand’s South Island destinations as the best value destinations of 2024. Although a long flight for most, the country is sure not to break the bank once you arrive. Travelers can enjoy luxury experiences at affordable prices, and by traveling in groups of family or friends, a luxury private guided tour costs almost the same as a solo traveler—a truly great value for money and something all travelers should do. Contemplation
Minar Station
Minaret Station, a remote and secluded luxury lodge located in Wanaka, New Zealand’s South Island, has been named one of ‘The 50 Greatest Luxury Hotels on Earth’ in the 2024 Robb Report. This high country retreat, accessible by heli flight, is the epitome of opulence and luxury. The lodge has only a few chalets for guests to occupy, meaning that the experience of staying at Minaret Lodge is highly exclusive and intimate.
The lodge offers premium experiences and activities such as privately guided heli-skiing and exploring Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak, and ancient glacial caves. Once guests have enjoyed an action-packed day, return to the lodge to enjoy a private meal prepared by the in-house chef, featuring only locally sourced and fresh ingredients. It’s no surprise that Minaret Station made it onto this list, as it truly is one of New Zealand’s greatest luxury investments.
Flockhill Lodge
Flockhill Lodge in the Canterbury High Country has been voted #3 in the Rob Report 2024 ‘The 50 Greatest Luxury Hotels on Earth’. Two worlds collide at Flockhill Lodge, combining rugged and remote farmland with ultimate luxury and world-class facilities. The lodge offers guests a choice of homestead or villa accommodation, which is set to open in December this year.
The homestead has four bedrooms, each boasting views of Lake Pearson and the picturesque rolling hills. The lodge promises guests a luxurious experience with privacy and seclusion and offers private activities such as farm tours, horse treks, fly fishing, heli experiences and private cooking classes. Flockhill Lodge provides guests with a way to experience the best of New Zealand that keeps them ‘off the stomach’ – a truly unique travel experience.
Everything you need to plan your trip in 2024
Dive Tutukaka – Time Magazine’s World’s Greatest Destinations 2024
Have you ever heard of Tutukaka or maybe the Poor Knights Marine Reserve? This world-renowned diving and snorkeling location is celebrated for its marine diversity and is known as the best sub-tropical diving location in the world. Dive! Tutukaka, featured in Time Magazines ‘World’s Greatest Places’, offers tourists a once-in-a-lifetime experience of exploring the Tutukakka Marine Reserve with trained professionals.
No matter your skill level, dive in! Tutukaka can cater for everyone, offering snorkeling tours for experienced divers and day trips—with diving courses for those looking to learn the skills. Once you’re in the water, you’ll encounter an array of marine life, such as dolphins, stingrays, vibrant coral reefs and native fish in their natural habitats. This experience with Dive Tutukaka promises memories to last a lifetime and the chance to build skills to keep you diving well into the future!
Mount Cook Lakeside Retreat
This luxury high country retreat has also featured in Time magazine’s ‘World’s Greatest Places for 2024’. Mount Cook Lakeside Retreat is a one-of-a-kind stay, offering guests premium lakeside villa accommodation with views of Lake Pukaki. The retreat is a three-hour drive from Queenstown or Wanaka by car, or take a private heli flight to arrive by car.
This lakeside retreat has plenty of unique experiences and activities to offer guests, one of which is the Oraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve. Experience ‘Billion Star Dining’, a Michelin-standard six-course fine dining experience followed by stargazing at the Pukaki Observatory. The retreat offers exclusive activities such as fly fishing, guided hikes and nature walks, relaxing spa days and private heli picnics. Mount Cook Lakeside Retreat offers guests the opportunity to explore some of New Zealand’s most famous destinations while indulging in pure luxury.
met again?
New Zealand has accumulated some amazing nominations and recognitions, and I’m sure it’s obvious why! After exploring some of these amazing experiences and amenities, I believe New Zealand will be added to the wish list of all luxury travelers, now equipped with the latest and greatest that New Zealand has to offer. Tell us what you think; Which of these would you most like to experience?
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