New Zealand

New Zealand is a country that doesn’t just invite you to see its beauty; it invites you to be changed by it. In 2026, the luxury experience has shifted toward “Slower, Intentional Escapes,” where the travel advisor is a curator of moments rather than just a booker of rooms. From the newly redesigned, Michelin-keyed Huka Lodge in Taupō to the rugged, high-altitude solitude of the Southern Alps, New Zealand offers a sophisticated blend of adventure and “Quiet Luxury.”

Whether you are heli-hiking on the Franz Josef Glacier, sipping an award-winning Central Otago Pinot Noir by a stone fireplace, or exploring the sacred “Lord of the Forest” Kauri trees, New Zealand remains the world’s premier destination for those who seek the extraordinary in the everyday.

Why we love New Zealand

We love New Zealand for its “Human First” philosophy. In 2026, the country leads the world in Regenerative Tourism, where luxury is defined by the depth of your connection to the land (whenua) and its people (tangata). We love the “Farm Charm” trend—sophisticated farm stays that blend rustic heritage with five-star comfort—and the country’s status as a global leader in “Dark Sky” tourism. It is a place where you can find a world-class culinary scene in a city like Wellington and be in total wilderness less than an hour later.

The Most Beautiful Places in New Zealand

From the sub-tropical north to the glacial south:

1. The Bay of Islands & Northland

A sub-tropical paradise of 144 islands. In 2026, the newly reopened Helena Bay Lodge offers an intimate, beachfront sanctuary on 800 acres of private forest. Explore the historic Waitangi Treaty Grounds for a deep dive into Māori history, or charter a private yacht to find a deserted cove for a gourmet seafood lunch.

2. Taupō & Huka Falls

The volcanic heart of the North Island. The iconic Huka Lodge reopened in March 2025 following a spectacular centenary redesign, reclaiming its title as the blueprint for luxury lodges worldwide. Visit the thundering Huka Falls or take a private helicopter tour over the active geothermal landscapes of Rotorua to witness the earth’s raw power.

3. The Southern Alps (Canterbury & West Coast)

The backbone of the South Island. For 2026, Flockhill has become the ultimate “Wilderness Luxury” destination—a 36,000-acre high-country station where you can arrive by helicopter to explore braided rivers and limestone boulders. Nearby, The Lindis in the Ahuriri Valley offers an architecturally stunning retreat that seems to melt into the golden tussock grass.

4. Queenstown & Fiordland

The “Adventure Capital” and the “Eighth Wonder of the World.” In 2026, the Roki Collection in Queenstown offers a bold new era of alpine elegance with ultra-luxe suites overlooking Lake Wakatipu. From here, take a private charter to Milford Sound or Doubtful Sound for a silent, misty cruise through ancient fjords where waterfalls tumble thousands of feet into the deep green water.

5. Waiheke Island

The “Island of Wine,” just a short ferry or helicopter hop from Auckland. Stay at Delamore Lodge, built into the cliffside in the shape of a traditional Māori fish hook. Spend your days hopping between world-class vineyards like Mudbrick or Casita Miro, and your evenings dining on the freshest Pacific oysters overlooking the Hauraki Gulf.

Highlights of a Tour Through New Zealand

  • The TranzAlpine Journey: Regarded as one of the world’s great train journeys, this route connects Christchurch to the West Coast, cutting through the snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps.
  • Maori Cultural Immersion: In 2026, the focus is on “Human Connection.” Experience an intimate cultural engagement in Rotorua, including storytelling and a traditional Hāngī dinner at a private family home.
  • Stargazing in the Dark Sky Reserve: Visit Lake Tekapo or Mount Cook Village within the Aoraki Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve for a private astronomy session, witnessing the Milky Way with a clarity found almost nowhere else on Earth.

Essential Travel Tips

  • When to go: Autumn (March to May) is the “Smart Season” in 2026—offering settled weather, vibrant colors, and fewer crowds. For skiing and snow-topped mountains, visit in Winter (June to August), while Summer (December to February) is perfect for the beaches and Great Walks.
  • Getting around: While New Zealand is a legendary road-trip destination, we recommend private helicopter transfers for hopping between remote lodges to maximize your time and witness the incredible geography from above.
  • Indigenous Etiquette: Māori culture is the soul of New Zealand. Always enter a Marae (meeting house) with respect and follow local protocols (tikanga). A friendly “Kia ora” is the universal greeting.
  • Language: English, Māori, and New Zealand Sign Language are the official languages. English is spoken fluently throughout, but you will hear many Māori words used in daily life.