New Zealand

New Zealand’s many outstanding luxury lodges are well combined with Gray & Co.’s custom, one-of-a-kind explorations — in-depth experiences that highlight the best of each island.

Starting in the warm north, the Bay of Islands feature the Rosewood Lodge at Kauri Cliffs, with 180-degree Pacific views and untouched coastline, perfect for a custom sea kayak with dolphins and blue penguins along the coast or enjoying a locally sourced beach picnic.

Further south but still on the North Island, the Rosewood Farm at Cape Kidnappers sits on a 6,000-acre working sheep and cattle farm in Hawke’s Bay, surrounding by one of the country’s most significant wine districts. A typical day here might see you spending the morning hiking on property or heli-fishing on remote back country rivers followed by an afternoon with a private tasting in the cellar of Te Mata, one of New Zealand’s oldest wineries. Nearby, Baillie Lodge’s Huka Lodge is currently undergoing renovation and set to open March of 2025. Set on the banks of the Waikato River near Lake Taupō, the property is investing $15 million towards their thrilling, new era, set to open March 2025.

On the south end of the North Island, the Relais & Châteaux’s Wharekauhau Country Estate. After, hop on your ATV for a blacksand beach ride to a local pub for fish & chips. After lunch, explore more of nearby Palliser Bay by hiking up to a local lighthouse or heading out on the “Pinnacles” hike, made famous in the Lord of the Rings movies. Back at the lodge, choose from extensive spa offerings, a lively clay shooting with staff, gin and wine tastings, a tennis lesson and more!

On the South Island, Relais & Châteaux’s Otahuna Lodge, just outside Christchurch, is an 1895 Victorian mansion surrounded 30 acres of century-old botanic and vegetable gardens. The nearby town of Akaroa offers opportunities to swim with Hector’s Dolphins. Heading west through the Southern Alp’s Arthur’s Pass leads you to Flockhill Lodge, the country’s newest luxe darling. Cave streaming, bouldering, horseback riding and trying your hand at the great “kiwi muster” with expert canine herders in tow. It is home to the famous merino high-country sheep after all!

Finally, the famous Queenstown – active-adventure home base for all activities including heli-hiking in the heart of the world-renowned Mount Aspiring National Park. Start your private excursion by air with a flyover of the famous Milford Sound followed by a remote hike and a private picnic lunch next to Isobel Glacier waterfalls made famous in the Lord of the Rings movies. Multiple options on offer for the afternoon including horseback riding in Cardrona, jet boating on the Dart River or relaxing with spa treatments. The Rosewood Matakauri Lodge is located just outside of Queenstown, with dramatic views of Lake Wakatipu and the mountains from each of its 12 luxurious suites. Continuing north to Glenorchy, find Blanket Bay on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, perfectly situated for expert level hiking, horseback riding, fly fishing, and Milford Sound heli day trips.

An hour’s drive away leads you to Wanaka and the Lindis, an architecturally modern lodge juxtaposed in the backcountry landscape and waterways of the Ahuriri Valley. Standout experiences include world class fly fishing, some of the clearest night skies in the world for stargazing with a knowledgeable guide, and a private, fine-dining experience enjoyed in the hidden & unique Black Diamond with unobstructed views down the valley.