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5-Star Accommodation in The South Pacific: A guide to the best luxury lodges & luxury villas. Part 1 - North Island, New Zealand
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5-Star Accommodation in The South Pacific: A guide to the best luxury lodges & luxury villas. Part 1 - North Island, New Zealand

New Zealand is stunning:

Often listed as the most beautiful country in the world, New Zealand’s dramatic landscapes and unique cultural experiences are perfectly complimented by its collection of world-class, five-star accommodation. From boutique lodges set amidst untamed wilderness to opulent city hotels offering premium amenities, each property offers a unique blend of luxury and a connection to the country’s natural beauty and heritage. Luxury Adventures has been operating for 20 years. Here’s our handpicked guide to the top 5-star accommodation in New Zealand, including its luxury lodges & villas, and some of their distinguishing features. 

Beauty in the North Island: 

The beauty of New Zealand’s North Island is unrivalled, blending stunning landscapes and rich culture. Discover the beautiful Waiheke Island, the turquoise waters of the Bay of Islands, the geothermal wonders of Taupō, the culture in Rotorua and the rolling vineyards of Hawke’s Bay. With golden beaches, lush forests, and vibrant cities like Auckland and Wellington, the North Island is a captivating experience for every traveller.

Getting to New Zealand

From the West Coast of the United States, a direct flight to New Zealand is 13 hours. There are now also direct flights available from San Francisco & Texas. Other places on the Pacific Rim, like Singapore, Hong Kong and Tokyo, take around 10 hours.

When travelling to New Zealand from another country, you’ll probably arrive here at one of four major airports – Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, or Queenstown with the majority landing in Auckland. Domestic flights are operated out of all the main airports including Auckland, Rotorua, Wellington and Christchurch.

Auckland International Airport is New Zealand’s largest and busiest airport. Most overseas visitors to New Zealand arrive here. It is located south-west of the city of Auckland in the suburb of Mangere.

Below is a table summarising direct flights to New Zealand, including departure cities, airlines, and approximate flight durations:
Departure CountryDeparture CityAirline(s)Arrival City in NZApproximate Flight Duration
AustraliaSydneyAir New Zealand, Qantas, JetstarAuckland~3h 10m
 MelbourneAir New Zealand, Qantas, JetstarAuckland~3h 35m
 BrisbaneAir New Zealand, Qantas, JetstarAuckland~3h 10m
 PerthAir New Zealand, QantasAuckland~6h 30m
 AdelaideAir New ZealandAuckland~4h 30m
 Gold CoastAir New Zealand, JetstarAuckland~3h 10m
 CairnsAir New ZealandAuckland~4h 50m
 Sunshine CoastAir New ZealandAuckland~3h 30m
United StatesLos AngelesAir New Zealand, American AirlinesAuckland~12h 50m
 San FranciscoAir New Zealand, United AirlinesAuckland~13h 5m
 HoustonAir New ZealandAuckland~14h 35m
 HonoluluAir New Zealand, Hawaiian AirlinesAuckland~9h 0m
CanadaVancouverAir New ZealandAuckland~14h 15m
ChinaBeijingAir ChinaAuckland~13h 0m
 ShanghaiChina Eastern AirlinesAuckland~12h 0m
Hong KongHong KongAir New ZealandAuckland~11h 0m
SingaporeSingaporeAir New Zealand, Singapore AirlinesAuckland~10h 30m
JapanTokyoAir New Zealand, All Nippon AirwaysAuckland~11h 0m
 OsakaAir New ZealandAuckland~11h 0m
South KoreaSeoulAir New ZealandAuckland~12h 0m
MalaysiaKuala LumpurMalaysia AirlinesAuckland~10h 30m
ThailandBangkokThai AirwaysAuckland~11h 30m
ChileSantiagoLATAM AirlinesAuckland~12h 0m
The view coming to land in Auckland. 'Kia Ora' means Hello in Maori language

5 Stars in New Zealand’s North Island: 

Huka Lodge – Taupō

Perched on the banks of the Waikato River near the famous Huka Falls, Huka Lodge is a paragon of understated elegance. This iconic retreat offers 25 suites, including the exclusive Owner’s Cottage and Alan Pye Cottage. Each room boasts tasteful interiors and uninterrupted views of the river or manicured gardens. Huka Lodge has recently been refurbished, with completion due March 2025

What Makes It Unique:

  • Award-winning dining experiences that utilise fresh, local ingredients.
  • Personalised guest services, including riverside dining setups.
  • Proximity to adventure activities like fly fishing, golf and scenic helicopter tours over Lake Taupō.

 The Farm at Cape Kidnappers – Hawke’s Bay

Set on a 6,000-acre working sheep and cattle farm, this luxury lodge offers spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean. The Farm at Cape Kidnappers features 24 lavish suites and a four-bedroom Owner’s Cottage. The property’s architecture mirrors its rustic surroundings while delivering high-end comfort.

What Makes It Unique:

  • An award-winning golf course that ranks among the world’s best.
  • Opportunities to explore the property’s eco-sanctuary, home to rare birds like the Kiwi.
  • Seasonal farm-to-table cuisine inspired by Hawke’s Bay’s rich agricultural heritage.

Kauri Cliffs – Bay of Islands

Kauri Cliffs is a luxurious lodge set on a 6,500-acre property with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. It offers 22 suites and a two-bedroom Owner’s Cottage, each featuring a private porch and elegant interiors.

What Makes It Unique:

  • A championship golf course ranked among the top 100 worldwide.
  • Private access to three secluded beaches.
  • Guided cultural and historical tours of the Bay of Islands region.
Kauri Cliffs residence

The Landing – Bay of Islands

The Landing is a luxury retreat set on a 1,000-acre coastal property in the Bay of Islands. It offers four beautifully designed private residences, each with its own unique character.

What Makes It Unique:

  • A private vineyard producing award-winning wines.
  • Exclusive access to beaches, hiking trails, and native bush.
  • Bespoke experiences such as fishing trips and cultural tours.

Rahimoana – Bay of Islands

Rahimoana is the crown jewel of the Eagles Nest luxury villas in Russell. This ultra-modern villa offers 360-degree views of the Bay of Islands and unmatched privacy.

What Makes It Unique:

  • A heated infinity pool overlooking the ocean.
  • A personal chef and butler service.
  • Helicopter access and proximity to world-class diving and sailing.

Kinloch Manor & Villas – Taupō

Located near Lake Taupō, Kinloch Manor offers modern, luxurious accommodation with stunning views of the lake and surrounding countryside. Its design blends contemporary aesthetics with natural materials.

What Makes It Unique:

Kaitiaki Lodge – Waiheke Island

Kaitiaki Lodge offers a luxurious retreat on Waiheke Island, surrounded by lush native bush and stunning coastal views. This modern, eco-friendly property ensures a sustainable yet opulent experience.

What Makes It Unique:

  • Eco-conscious design with sustainable practices.
  • Personalised wellness experiences, including yoga and spa treatments.
  • Proximity to Waiheke Island’s world-class vineyards.

Delamore Lodge – Waiheke Island

Overlooking the Hauraki Gulf, Delamore Lodge is a luxurious haven on Waiheke Island. It features elegant suites and breathtaking vistas.

What Makes It Unique:

  • Infinity pool with panoramic sea views.
  • Locally inspired fine dining.
  • Close to Waiheke Island’s beaches and vineyards.
Delamore Lodge, Waiheke Island view

Treetops Lodge & Estate – Rotorua

Treetops Lodge offers a unique wilderness experience in Rotorua. Set on a 2,500-acre estate, this lodge combines luxury with outdoor adventure.

What Makes It Unique:

  • Guided nature walks and wildlife encounters.
  • World-class trout fishing streams on the property.
  • Farm-to-table dining using estate-grown produce.

Point Residence – Auckland

Point Residence is an ultra-luxurious property in Auckland offering breathtaking views of the city and harbour. This exclusive residence combines privacy with opulence.

What Makes It Unique:

  • Expansive living spaces with state-of-the-art amenities.
  • Personalised services, including private chefs and chauffeurs.
  • Proximity to Auckland’s premier shopping and dining destinations.

The Hotel Britomart – Auckland

The Hotel Britomart is a chic boutique hotel in the heart of Auckland’s Britomart precinct. Combining sustainable design with luxury, it offers a unique urban retreat.

What Makes It Unique:

  • Eco-friendly construction with a 5 Green Star rating.
  • Proximity to vibrant dining and shopping options in Britomart.
  • Elegant interiors featuring locally sourced materials.

Wharekauhau Country Estate – Wairarapa

Set amidst 3,000 acres of rolling farmland overlooking Palliser Bay, Wharekauhau Country Estate offers an unmatched blend of grand and refined luxury. This exclusive lodge is a sanctuary of relaxation and adventure, featuring spacious suites, elegant interiors, and breathtaking views of New Zealand’s rugged coastline.

What Makes It Unique:

  • A working sheep station, Wharekauhau provides a unique glimpse into rural New Zealand life with guided farm tours and sheep-shearing demonstrations.
  • Explore the dramatic landscapes with activities like quad biking, clay pigeon shooting, horseback riding, and guided nature walks.
  • Relish farm-to-table dining experiences, complemented by Wairarapa’s renowned wines and ingredients sourced from the estate’s gardens.

Te Arai Lodge 

A family owned and operated lodge, nestled on the pristine coastline of Te Arai, this luxurious boutique lodge is a serene sanctuary offering breathtaking views, exquisite service, and an intimate connection to nature. Te Arai Lodge combines architectural elegance with sustainable practices to create a one-of-a-kind experience.

What Makes It Unique:

  • Situated on a ridge overlooking the Pacific Ocean, the lodge offers panoramic views of rolling hills, native bush, and unspoiled beaches, creating an idyllic retreat.
  • The lodge champions sustainability with its solar-powered design and organic gardens. Guests enjoy gourmet meals crafted from fresh, seasonal produce grown onsite or sourced locally.
  • Te Arai Lodge offers bespoke wellness programs, including yoga, spa treatments, and private coaching sessions, all designed to rejuvenate the mind and body amidst tranquil surroundings.

Conclusion:

New Zealand’s North Island 5-star accommodation are more than just places to stay—they are gateways to extraordinary experiences. Whether you seek the thrill of adventure, the tranquility of nature, or the sophistication of urban luxury, these properties offer something truly special. Each lodge, hotel, or retreat is a testament to New Zealand’s commitment to excellence, ensuring your stay is as memorable as the landscapes that surround you. Stay tuned for Part 2, when we will be showcasing the finest 5 star accommodation the South Island of New Zealand has to offer.

If you would like to know more about exploring the North Island of New Zealand., you can click here or email info@luxuryadventures.co.nz 

This article was written by Luxury Adventures Director Steve McKean 

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