New Zealand’s most extraordinary luxury hotels serve up Michelin-starred dining and spectacular views

Best for wellness

A lakefront sanctuary on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, ROKI Collection Queenstown opened in late 2025 with a compelling and clearly defined vision — one so compelling that its restaurant, Essence, was recognised as New Zealand’s first-ever two-Michelin-starred restaurant in June 2026.

This five-star luxury urban retreat blends the buzz of a ski town with the tranquillity of its 15 suites, featuring interiors designed by Virginia Fisher and architecture by Sumich Chaplin Architects. Framed by views of The Remarkables and Lake Wakatipu, the hotel’s coveted location reflects its name, Roki — meaning “tranquil” in te reo Māori — promising a restful stay complemented by culinary delights. On top of all this, its ROKI Pure sanctuary has thermal facilities, private treatment rooms, an indoor pool and a Sleep Concierge.

Address: 2 Brunswick Street, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand

Best for classic luxury

This five-star lodge has stood on the banks of the Waikato River since 1924, offering 20 suites and two private residences set amid 17 acres of gardens, with Lake Taupō nearby. Originally established as a fishing camp more than a century ago, the storied property reopened in March 2025 following a $22.6 million renovation, while retaining the lodge’s classic style and communal atmosphere.

The most substantial new additions are to the main dining and lounge areas, where an expansive terrace offers epic views of the park-like gardens and the rushing river which flanks the property. Burberry-style tartans, autumnal red drapes, lush green sofas, gilt-framed oil paintings, double-sided fireplaces and quirky curios lend character throughout. A zen wellness retreat, private cottages and a lavish food and drink menu add to the calm and exhilarating, simple yet indulgent stay.

Address: 271 Huka Falls Road, Wairakei, Taupō 3377, New Zealand

Best for a secluded high-country retreat

To experience some of New Zealand’s wildest landscapes, you need to head south near the bottom of the habitable world. But of course, you’ll want to do so in style, which you can do at The Lindis, one of the most romantic luxury lodges in Te Waipounamu.

Located in a glacial valley, this tranquil slice of paradise offers romantic seclusion in spades. Alpine picnics, steamy hot tub soaks and evening star-gazing sessions invite stolen moments, while more adventurous high-country activities such as horse trekking, heli-skiing and glacier walks can be arranged to fill adrenaline junkies’ days. The Lindis has also been awarded Two Michelin Keys by the MICHELIN Guide, recognising exceptional stays.

Address: 1490 Birchwood Road, Ahuriri Valley 9412, New Zealand

Best for signature views

Nature takes centre stage at Rosewood Matakauri which sits on the shores of Lake Wakatipu. Just a seven-minute drive from the heart of Queenstown, this five-star lakeside boutique retreat offers serene seclusion paired with impeccable service. Each of the 16 suites include a private balcony or patio, deep soaking bathtub, and light-filled interiors designed by Virginia Fisher. The property’s private jetty provides a direct gateway to thrilling outdoor adventure. It’s little wonder this hideaway is considered one of New Zealand’s finest retreats.

Address: 569 Glenorchy-Queenstown Road, Closeburn 9371, New Zealand

Best for golfing

If food and wine are your raison d’être, Cape Kidnappers is the luxury lodge for you. Located on the coastal fringes of Hawke’s Bay — the nation’s famed food bowl — this whimsical retreat makes the most of its location, offering understated luxury on the doorstep of New Zealand’s second-largest wine region. Each generously appointed, open-plan suite offers open fireplaces, plush king beds and bucolic vistas to boot. And if you desire to learn a thing or two about homestead living, book an introduction to life on a 6,000 acre working sheep and beef farm — a unique experience adored by adventurers of all ages.

Address: 446 Clifton Road, Te Awanga 4180, New Zealand

Best for intimate lakeside lodging

This refined retreat on Lake Wakatipu is as stately as they come. Set against the snow capped peaks of the Southern Alps, insurpassed comfort and service in a spectacular location is what defines a stay at Blanket Bay. Award winning Chef Dan Reynolds heads up the on-site kitchen, offering a five-course degustation menu that changes daily and celebrates the best of seasonal New Zealand produce. Choose from secluded chalet suites or gracious lodge rooms, or opt for the grandiose Chalet Stateroom for a more family-style offering.

Address: 4191 Glenorchy-Queenstown Road, Glenorchy 9372, New Zealand

Best for location

Built on the site of Queenstown’s first building (a woolshed-turned-hotel), this centrally located gem remains one of New Zealand’s most exclusive addresses. Fronting the best lakefront positioning on offer, this 160-year-old landmark offers all of the refined touches of a five-star stay, with a lavish dose of character and charm. Each of the hotel’s seven suites offers picture-postcard views and open fireplaces, while the two-bedroom penthouse includes a full-service kitchen, plus an outdoor lounge, fireplace and hot tub, all overlooking the lake.

Address: 2 Marine Parade, Queenstown 9348, New Zealand

Best for dining and adventure

Otahuna Lodge is a beguiling Victorian mansion set against the fluted cone of an ancient volcano. The history of decades past is revealed in every curve and crevice of the mansion, with its seven suites adorned with ornate fireplaces, opulent fabrics and delicate details, all framed by sweeping views.

Its exquisite attention to detail may tempt you to stay in, but you could also sail across the extinct volcanic harbour, take in the panoramas from one of the world’s greatest train journeys, or charter a helicopter straight from Otahuna’s Great Lawn into the jaw-dropping Southern Alps — if opting into adventure tickles your fancy.

Address: 224 Rhodes Road Tai Tapu, Christchurch 7672, New Zealand

Best for staying on a working farm estate

Wharekauhau Country Estate has all the grandeur of five-star luxury with antique furniture, fireplaces and formal dining rooms. Originally built in the 1840s, the estate was originally famed for world-class sheep breeding, though is now revered for its sweeping views and ultimate privacy. Just an hour and a half from Wellington, the 3000-acre property combines next-level luxury with casual comforts such as an onsite kitchen garden, croquet on the lawn and freshly baked cookies in the country-style kitchen.

Address: 4132 Wharekauhau Road, Palliser Bay, Ocean Beach 5773, New Zealand

Best for city sighting

New Zealand’s first 5 Green Star hotel, Hotel Britomart in Auckland has an impressive string of sustainability credentials. The hotel is discreetly tucked into a laneway in the vibrant Britomart precinct, offering an oasis of urban calm, with many of the hotel’s 99 rooms offering expansive views of the Waitematā harbour. Inside, you’ll find sleek Scandinavian design paired with flourishes of old-world charm, such as wallpaper-lined drinks cabinets, which come well-stocked with locally crafted tipples and treats. Britomart’s nine blocks are bursting with Auckland’s best food, from vibrant Vietnamese to fresh Italian fare and local, sustainably caught seafood at kingi.

Address: 29 Galway Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand

Best for honeymooners

Nature and luxury embrace eachother at the idyllic Coronet Ridge Resort. Recently opening in December 2025, the five-star resort offers both deluxe rooms and spacious suites with views of the Shotover River, all of which have privacy front of mind. A variety of spa treatments and experiences are also encouraged to opt into during your stay, including therapeutic modalities with high-performance New Zealand botanicals.

Address: 146 Arthurs Point Road, Arthurs Point, Queenstown 9371, New Zealand