As winter sets in, our thoughts often go towards getting away for a bit of rejuvenation. A local luxury break is often just the ticket; it’s amazing what a round of golf, a gorgeous walk, beautiful accommodation, a bit of pampering can do.
And it doesn’t need to be long, even just two nights away from home can have you starting the week feeling like a new person. We love Hawke’s Bay and Queenstown for these kinds of breaks. Here are some ideas if you’re contemplating a luxury getaway in these regions.
Hawke’s Bay
Hawke’s Bay is a no brainer for a weekend of indulgence. Vineyards, gorgeous scenery, fabulous food. What more could anyone want? Fly into Napier Airport and rent a car as it’s the easiest way to make sure you can get everywhere you want.
If you’re really splashing out, stay at Cape Kidnappers, one of New Zealand’s best loved luxury properties (or just pop in for a day spa visit or to play the stunning golf course). Mangapapa Hotel is also a wonderful place to stay, and does a beautiful high tea the public can access. There’s no space to name all the vineyards but Craggy Range really is wonderful if you’re looking for incredible food too.
Also don’t miss St George’s for truly memorable fine dining - there’s a reason everyone talks about it. Obviously it’s not all eating and drinking - stretch your legs up beautiful Te Mata Peak or explore the region’s vibrant art scene. There’s an eclectic array of galleries and museums throughout Hawke's Bay, as well as public art and trails - and, of course, the Art Deco buildings of Napier are artworks themselves.
Queenstown
Queenstown has always been associated with luxury holidays but never more than now when it’s free from crowds of tourists. Stay at the relatively new Gibbston Valley Accommodation (with onsite spa) or Matakauri Lodge with its unbeatable views and if you’re feeling active, play the world renowned golf course at Millbrook - one of the most scenic courses in the world.
Get up in the air in a small plane, helicopter or even hot air balloon to see stunning alpine and lake scenery from above; you can even do a snow landing and picnic in the Alps! Definitely don’t miss Onsen, a spa and hot tub experience with incredible views (it won a World Luxury Spa Award last year) and no luxury getaway to Queenstown would be complete without a trip to Amisfield to see why it was awarded three hats by Cuisine Magazine last year, and the Chef of the Year award.
Take advantage of the lack of overseas visitors and take a break in one of New Zealand’s most stunning alpine settings. Not sure the best way to get around? Try a rental car from Queenstown Airport - a convenient option that's often cheaper than you might think!
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Images courtesy of Tourism New Zealand.
