Luxury Lodges of New Zealand has this week introduced a new subset of private ultra-luxury accommodation marketed as the Luxury Villas of New Zealand.
There are more than a dozen foundation members in the Luxury Villas of New Zealand, stretching from the Bay of Islands on the North Island, to the adventure capital of Queenstown on the South Island.
Each member property complements the stunning landscape with their architecture, design, and sustainability initiatives. The exclusive residences offer highly sought-after, private-stay experiences that extend beyond any other style of accommodation.
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More than just exclusive retreats, the collection spans architecturally award-winning, one-bedroom coastal hideaways to magnificent, six-bedroom high country residences with full-service kitchens, heated swimming pools and hot tubs, helipads, home offices, private chefs, dedicated butlers, professional activity guides and more.
The collection of Luxury Villas of New Zealand will form the ultimate luxury private stay itinerary in the country when international travel resumes in 2022.
Members must meet strict criteria to maintain the high standards of the Luxury Lodges of New Zealand, which are globally renowned for their exceptional hospitality.
Foundation Members
SOUTH ISLAND
Situated on a secluded property in the picturesque town of Wānaka, The Dacha boasts uninterrupted vistas. The glimmering lake and snow-dusted peaks of the Southern Alps envelop the home in a panorama. In its private setting, the Dacha’s six guest suites can comfortably accommodate up to 16 guests.
Cairnbrae is a striking contemporary residence, set in the beautiful southern landscape. Superbly designed living spaces open to patios and a heated swimming pool. There are five guest rooms that accommodate up to ten guests. Guests can also enjoy an on-site wine cellar/tasting room and spa pool.
Seascape and Scrubby Bay at Annandale are two remote, ultra-modern coastal retreats hidden away on a 1,620 hectare working farm above the Banks Peninsula, just a short heli-hop from Christchurch. Seascape is a romantic gem suited for two, with a turf roof, stone walls, and glass façade. Scrubby Bay, a larger, luxury four-bedroom villa which can accommodate up to 14 guests with a private pool.
Striking, contemporary Falcon Brae Villa is cantilevered over a hilltop, high in the Abel-Tasman region of the South Island and has incredible 360-degree views towards the National Park and the majestic Motueka River below. With soaring ceiling heights, several indoor/outdoor lounges and dining areas, multimedia spaces, an infinity pool and outdoor spa, Falcon Brae can welcome up to six adults and four children.
Piwakawaka Point Estate is a 134-hectare property, encompassing the entire southern end of a peninsula on the shores of Lake Wānaka. The grand villa can accommodate up to 14 guests and has exceptional features expected in this exclusive portfolio including a tennis court, incredible art collection, 10km of private walking and biking trails, lake access for kayaking, paddle boarding and fishing, and full gym with a sauna.
NORTH ISLAND
Located within the 16,000 acre Poronui high country estate in the central North Island, Blake House offers luxurious accommodation for up to 16 guests in a building designed by architect John Blair to reflect New Zealand’s pioneering past. The villa offers expansive views over the Taharua River and is a great base for those seeking active wilderness adventures or for those searching for a relaxed country stay.
Just over an hour’s drive from Auckland, Te Arai Lodge is surrounded by an ancient podocarp forest and native bush, sitting on an elevated ridge with panoramic views across the rolling hills of the Brynderwyn Ranges and islands of the Mangawhai Coast. The Lodge can accommodate up to 10 guests in four luxury suites and a bunk room and has a 20 metre heated lap pool, cedar hot tub, infra-red sauna and yoga studio.
The Landing is one of the most outstanding properties in Oceania and offers four exclusive Residences in an incredible coastal setting in the Bay of Islands. The award-winning vineyard offers six private beaches and a network of walking trails through native bush, wetlands and along the coastline. A short walk from each Residence is The Landing’s private jetty, a stepping-off point for adventures in the Bay of Islands.
The sweeping 5-suite Cooper Residence for up to 10 guests has a grand wine cellar, a library, outdoor fireplace, and observatory tower deck. The interior features a wonderful collection of Māori taonga (treasures), historic artefacts, and contemporary New Zealand art.
Overlooking the sparkling waters of the Bay of Islands in the far north of the North Island, Rahimoana at Eagles Nest, provides contemporary, architecturally designed accommodation for up to eight guests in four generous double bedrooms, each with its own ensuite in an 18-hectare private headland.
Gabriel Residence is a modern take on a traditional hunting and fishing lodge. The timber-lined living, entertaining and recreation areas flow seamlessly and there are four guest suites, each with an ensuite bathroom.
Nestling amongst the vines, the Vineyard Villa is a sumptuous haven crafted in timber and stone, with three guest rooms. The views encompass rolling pastures, vines and wetlands which attract native kiwis in the evening.
Located on the waterfront, The Boathouse epitomises casual luxury in a coastal setting. Its barn-style glass doors slide back to reveal the central living space. A large, covered dining area with outdoor fireplace and pizza oven comfortably hosts up to twenty guests.
Lead image: Rahimoana