Nestled between commanding snow-capped mountains and the glorious sapphire water of Lake Wakatipu, Lodge Lorien is a luxury retreat that’s only 45 minutes north-west of Queenstown. The four sumptuously decorated guest rooms all have a private ensuite and the home’s lavish entertaining spaces – including a movie theatre, games room, spa and outdoor living area – will keep the whole family happy. Gather at the crackling fireplace with a glass of local pinot noir in hand after a day exploring the nearby hiking trails. Book now.

Immerse yourself (and family and friends) in the best of New Zealand’s natural landscape at this luxurious four-bedroom retreat overlooking Lake Taupo, a 3.5-hour drive south of Auckland. Generous living spaces, including a well-equipped kitchen and outdoor dining area (kitted out with bean bags), complement the surroundings, with expansive windows positioned to take in unobstructed water views. Keen to stretch your legs? Enjoy an easy bush walk through the forest to the lake, pop into town to pick up fresh seafood or venture to neighbouring Huka Falls. Book now.

Take in panoramic views of the stunning scenery from almost every room of this architectural gem. While it feels a world away, the luxurious, timber-clad four-bedroom abode is only a few minutes from Kinloch, where fly-fishing is popular and the Kinloch General Store serves fresh pastries daily. But between the gorgeous alfresco dining area, the cosy indoor fireplace, the supplied bicycles and neighbouring golf course, there’s almost no reason to leave at all. Book now.

Four hours from Auckland and perched above Oneroa Bay, Cloud 9 is a haven for those who prefer to spend their time by the water. While there are three bedrooms to choose from, the master suite is the crown jewel, complete with its own private terrace. After waking to ocean views, open the bifold doors out to the wraparound sundeck – and the pool and hot tub – and you might catch dolphins frolicking in the waters below. It’s a short walk down to the beach or a quick drive into Russell, where restaurants dishing up local seafood pepper the waterfront. Book now.

Escape the busyness of downtown Wellington without missing a beat in this tucked-away tiny house that overlooks the city. The cleverly designed space is ideal for a romantic getaway or solo retreat, equipped with a loft bed, wood-burning fireplace and outdoor bath. Take in panoramic views from the timber deck before popping out to the cinema in Brooklyn or Mount Victoria Lookout. Book now.

While the 100 steps that take you up to the entrance might look daunting, this timber-clad, Scandinavian-inspired boutique retreat, minutes from Wellington’s CBD, is well worth the effort. With space for up to five guests, Hygge Hus features a wellness space on the mezzanine for morning stretches, an alfresco terrace, books and board games and a wood-burning fireplace – all accompanied by expansive ocean views. It’s just two minutes to the beach and a 10-minute drive to the airport, so you can touchdown, check-in and unwind as quickly as possible. Book now.

Inhale the scent of native New Zealand plant life and exhale any lingering stress at this urban retreat in the heart of Auckland. Situated beneath a canopy of trees, Nikau Garden Studio is perfect for couples or solo travellers, with Point Chevalier Beach a short drive away. Awaken to bird song, read in the courtyard, or venture out to the nearby restaurants, bars and brewpubs of Grey Lynn. Book now.

For a taste of farm life less than an hour from Auckland International Airport, The Stables is hard to beat. This two-bedroom rental is ideal for wedding parties or those looking for a convenient homebase when exploring surrounding wineries. The bright and airy cottage includes an open-air bath, hot tub and generous outdoor area where the farm’s resident cows have been known to sidle up and say hello. Pets are welcome here, too. Book now.

High vaulted ceilings, stylish furnishings (think plush linen couches, repurposed timber doors and a full-service espresso machine with handmade pottery vessels to match) and vistas across secluded Woodside Bay make this one-bedroom bolthole one of the top stays on Waiheke Island. The property’s views are best enjoyed from the sunken pool on the deck. Bonus: Destiny Bay Wines and Woodside Hill Winery are both a short drive away. Book now.

At the end of a gravel path, in the middle of a working hobby farm 15 minutes from downtown Christchurch, this architecturally designed retreat combines effortless style with off-grid charm. Cedar-panelled walls cocoon this retreat from the modern world, while the deck and living spaces deliver expansive views over Heathcote Valley. Little ones will spend their time spotting roaming sheep from the bunk beds in the second bedroom. Book now.

Rustic stone and timber beams make up this cosy cottage stay, which lies in the middle of an operating winery only 30 minutes from Queenstown. The farmhouse-style retreat sleeps four and comes with all the essentials to whip up a hearty breakfast ahead of a day spent exploring the historic gold-mining town of Arrowtown (a 10-minute drive away) and sampling pinot noir (which the area is renowned for). Book now.

With space for up to 10 guests, this contemporary villa is the kind of place you won’t want to leave – except, perhaps, to shred down the slopes of Coronet Peak and The Remarkables nearby. Modern furnishings, an outdoor hot tub, heated floors and an elevator take this five-bedroom stay into the realm of the extraordinary, beaten only by the stunning views of Lake Wakatipu enjoyed from floor-to-ceiling windows in almost every room. Book now.

A short drive from downtown Wānaka, the access point to Mount Aspiring National Park, this private guesthouse is all quirk and character. Set at the back of a family home, the one-bedroom retreat opens out onto a large outdoor patio that overlooks the alpine ranges. Lounge on the oversized leather Chesterfield sofas and make the place your own. This property welcomes long-term stays. Book now.

For the ultimate taste of beachfront luxury for you and 13 others, this modern ocean-side home around three hours from Auckland is just the ticket. Cross the road to access the white sands of Papamoa Beach, or stay in and relax in the hot tub or sauna before playing a few matches on the ping-pong table. An outdoor playground, bikes and all the beach essentials (towels, boards and snorkelling gear) are also on hand. Book now.

You’ll be hard-pressed to find a view of the eastern sunrise that beats the one on offer at this secluded lodge in Geraldine Downs, less than two hours from Christchurch. The rusted exterior of the one-bedroom lodge complements the red-toned timber inside to create a seamless connection between the indoors and outdoors. After dark, watch the stars fill the sky from bed (there’s strategically placed windows in the ceiling) or from the warmth of the outdoor bath. Book now.

The country quaintness of this bed-and-breakfast is magnified by its picture-perfect location, with private access to Lake Middleton and direct mountain views. Reserve a single guest suite for a romantic getaway or book out the entire lodge with friends and family. A cooked breakfast is included but dinner can be arranged, too. Biking and skiing are popular around these parts and the Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail runs nearby. Book now.

This off-grid two-bedroom ecolodge in the centre of the South Island delivers captivating alpine vistas from the sleeping, living and dining areas. The host has filled the home with books, board games and children’s toys, so there’s plenty to keep everyone entertained. Wander along the banks of the Waimakariri River or take a trip to Hokitika just over an hour west and dive into the city’s shipwrecks and treetop walk. A homemade breakfast is included for each night’s stay. Book now.

The minimalist design of this modern five-bedroom rental in Wyuna Bay allows the landscape – the views span Long Bay and Coromandel Harbour – to steal the show. A lush theatre space, roomy kitchen and massive entertaining deck are ideal for family and friends keen to unwind and escape the everyday – and you’re less than three hours from Auckland. Embark on a nearby fishing charter for a change of pace and catch your own evening meal. Book now.

Watch the fog roll over the surrounding hills and valleys or settle in for a starlit soak in the outdoor hot tub: any way you slice it, a stay at this luxury glamping rental on New Zealand’s North Island (which features four bedrooms) is an exercise in self-care. There’s an outdoor fire pit as well as a pizza oven for when you’re onsite, or venture further afield to explore the famous Waitomo Glowworm Caves or limestone Mangapohue Natural Bridge. Book now.

Settle in and put your feet up at this gorgeous cottage-style stay minutes from Blenheim. It’s located right in the heart of the Marlborough wine region, so you’re guaranteed a good drop during your stay (including the complimentary bottle awaiting your arrival). The pantry comes fully stocked, a breakfast basket features homemade bread and granola, and the private pool is great for your party – of six, two or one. Book now.

Newly built and minimally designed, Seafield View is a two-bedroom guesthouse that’s ideally placed for watching the sea shift and the grass grow in Hawke’s Bay. Borrow a book from the “book exchange” collection, luxuriate in the outdoor bath or grab the available e-bikes and head out on one of the many on-site trails. The property is 10 minutes from downtown Napier but no need to drag yourself out of bed: breakfast is included in the stay. Book now.

Have you ever woken up among a field of flowers? At this two-bedroom Airbnb located on a working flower farm five hours from Christchurch, you’ll do just that. Pull yourself a shot of Nespresso coffee in the kitchen then wander around the surrounding gardens (full of beautiful seasonal colour) before heading out to fly-fish, hike or sample the spoils of the local wineries. Books, board games and a washer-dryer combo make this spot perfect for the long-term traveller or road-tripper. Book now.

This three-bedroom split-level apartment in the heritage Art Deco Quarter of Napier in Hawke’s Bay will have you feeling like you’re sleeping in a gallery thanks to the copious amount of art adorning its walls, vibrant rugs and animal-themed sculptures. The eclectic penthouse overlooks the water and is within walking distance to dining, shopping and places of interest, including the Botanical Gardens and National Aquarium of New Zealand. Make sure to catch the sunset from the rooftop deck. Book now.

With a tropical garden that features a swing for little ones, kayaks for cruising along Blackpool Beach at the end of the road, three bedrooms and generous entertaining zones (the lawn is 200 metres-squared), this breezy coastal stay is perfect for a beach-loving family. Downtown Oneroa is a 10-minute walk away, so head to the water then refresh at home before an evening meal out. Book now.

Designed and built around an actual billiards room (at the ready for guest enjoyment), this five-bedroom home opens to mountain and lake views as well as a charming cottage garden. It’s in the heart of Queenstown (a bus shuttle service stops a short walk from the house) and the ski drying room is at the ready after a day on the slopes. A manual Jeep is also included for use during the stay. Book now.

Part of the HawkRidge Chateau, this honeymoon suite feels like it’s right in the thick of the surrounding wilderness thanks to floor-to-ceiling windows that peer out across the neighbouring mountains. Despite being only 20 minutes from Queenstown, a soak in the outdoor spa guarantees spectacular night-sky viewing (by day, a visit from the resident farm animals isn’t uncommon). The use of kayaks and golf clubs is included in the stay, as well as breakfast. Book now.

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