1 Hapuku Lodge and Treehouses
Surrounded by breathtaking terrain, Hapuku Lodge is a five-star eco-retreat found just a few kilometres north of the eco-marine town of Kaikoura.
No ordinary lodge, accommodation here is nestled 30 feet in the air – the tree houses sit amongst a native Kanuka Grove underneath the majestic Kaikoura Mountains. Contemporary and cool within, the idyllic setting adds to the allure, with wild deer wandering around the impressive 600-hectare grounds and stunning mountain views.
There’s also an outdoor 25-metre lap pool to enjoy, as well as hot tub, sauna and pool house. Sustainability is at the heart of this stay – the lodge uses solar power and sources its food from local farmers, rangers and fishermen with sustainable practices. It also has an ongoing campaign to restore the natural habitat – with 1,400 new native trees planted on the estate so far.
Find out more here.
2 The Resurgence
If you’re a hiking addict, you’ll love The Resurgence. Nestled within 50 acres of native bush and perched on the edge of two national parks, this eco lodge offers 5km of outstanding hiking trails to take on. Stay in six unique ‘Bush Suites’ or four boutique Lodge Rooms, all of five-star standard with superb views. Post-hike, make the most of a pool, spa, gym and on-site massages.
Dining is a main focus here, whether it’s farm-to-table feasts or a simple BBQ. It’s also ideally located to explore Abel Tasman with easy day trips to Golden Bay, Kahurangi National Park – as well as the art, wine and cycling trails around the Nelson Region.
Since 2003, several thousand native trees have been planted to aid the environment which have been eco-sourced from local suppliers. Keen to match the stunning surroundings, the lodge and bush suites have been designed to both blend into the native bush and also to minimise their resource usage. Built with renewable timbers, all rooms are designed to have a natural air flow to obviate the need for air-conditioning.
Find out more here.
3 Manawa Ridge, Waihi
When it comes to unique design, Manawa Ridge has it covered. A special building handmade from straw bale and mud bricks, this luxury eco-lodge boasts beautiful views of the Coromandel Peninsula and surrounding countryside. Located just 15 minutes’ drive from Waihi town centre, it also comes equipped with a sauna and petanque court.
Relax in your private pebble-lined double spa bath, set amongst a lovely garden, or explore the nearby wilderness. Perched on a hill top on New Zealand’s Coromandel, the luxury lodge offers spectacular 360 degree views over Waihi Beach, the Pacific Ocean and Coromandel Coast. Every room offers breath-taking views to keep guests feeling both relaxed and inspired.
Find out more here.
4 Awaroa Lodge, Abel Tasman National Park
Located in the Abel Tasman National Park, New Zealand’s smallest and most visited National Park, Awaroa Lodge is no ordinary check-in. Beautifully secluded and with no direct road access, guests can either arrive by helicopter or waterway. If you’re looking to fully switch off, the lack of mobile phone reception will greatly appeal.
Surrounded by pristine waterways and native forest, the lodge has been carefully constructed to make the most of its secluded location. Choose from charming Standard or Family rooms or the architecturally designed Superior Suites built over the wetlands. There’s also an inviting lounge, library, bar, restaurant and even pizzeria to enjoy.
Committed to sustainable dining, Harakeke Restaurant has its own organic garden; plentiful herbs and seasonal vegetables are used within the regionally influenced menus. Dine inside or out; the glass-walled Conservatory has incredible views out over the wetlands. Sit back, relax and get ready to recline at this luxury eco escape.
Find out more here.
5 SiloStay, Canterbury
There’s one word to describe SiloStay – quirky. Located in the heart of Little River, SiloStay is a mere 350 yards from the Christchurch – Little River Rail Trail. Built using innovative eco-friendly systems, this self-catering stay features eccentric accommodation filled with modern amenities in the form of stereos, TVs, electric blankets and handy kitchenettes.
Insulated by wool under the floor, in the walls and in the ceiling, there’s LED lighting within individual silos and external boardwalks. Passive cooling in summer involves opening the hatch at the top of the silo lid for the chance to gaze at New Zealand’s spectacular starry skies.
Find out more here.