From the peaks of the Southern Alps and the fjords of Fiordland to the vineyards of Central Otago and the shores of Lake Wakatipu, the South Island delivers some of the most spectacular scenery on Earth.
New Zealand's South Island is a destination defined by scale, where mountains, fjords, lakes and open landscapes combine to create one of the world's most remarkable travel experiences. Renowned for its dramatic scenery and outdoor adventures, it rewards visitors with a sense of freedom and natural beauty that is increasingly rare to find.
The island's landscapes are astonishingly diverse. The Southern Alps divide the country from north to south, whilst glacier-fed lakes, rugged coastlines, ancient forests and the fjords of Fiordland create scenery that changes dramatically from one region to the next. Destinations such as Queenstown, Wanaka, Milford Sound and Central Otago have become synonymous with some of New Zealand's most memorable experiences.
Luxury lodges, vineyard retreats and wilderness hideaways provide exceptional places to stay, whether exploring the mountains, discovering world-class wine regions or simply absorbing the landscape. Combining adventure, tranquillity and some of the finest scenery in the Southern Hemisphere, the South Island remains the destination that defines New Zealand for travellers around the world.
Moments of discovery often become the most memorable part of any journey, whether found through an exceptional hotel, a remarkable landscape or an experience that reveals a destination in a new light. The places that stay with us longest are those that create a genuine sense of connection.
Across islands, coastlines, mountains and vibrant cities, every destination offers its own character and rhythm. Some invite adventure, others encourage slower exploration, but the most rewarding journeys are often those that combine comfort, authenticity and a sense of place.
From luxury hotels and boutique retreats to safari experiences, rail journeys and small-ship voyages, our collection celebrates travel that feels considered, inspiring and memorable long after returning home.
Gibbston Valley Lodge & Spa, a luxurious five-star retreat nestled between rugged schist mountains in Central Otago's oldest founding vineyards, offers an exquisite escape blending relaxed luxury, fine wine, and gastronomic excellence with unparalleled concierge service. The 24 private villas, designed for sophisticated comfort, feature air-conditioned elegance, flat-screen TVs, spacious indoor living areas, and large bathrooms with walk-in showers, separate baths, dual basins, and premium locally made beauty products. Each villa opens onto a secluded, covered deck and sunny courtyard with views of organic vineyards and Gibbston's mountains, creating a refined sanctuary for couples, families, or wine enthusiasts. Complimentary Wi-Fi ensures seamless connectivity, enhancing the indulgent experience. The onsite restaurant offers an à la carte menu with gluten-free and vegan options, crafted from organic, sustainably produced ingredients grown in the chef's garden or sourced from local artisan suppliers, perfectly paired with award-winning Gibbston Valley Wines. Guests can unwind at the exclusive Day Spa, relax in the conservatory, media room, or wine cellar, or enjoy tailored experiential packages like wine tastings, vineyard tours, cave dinners, private picnics, luxury cycle tours, or hiking on the 1000-acre Gibbston Valley Station. The five-star concierge team curates bespoke experiences, from Queenstown adventures to intimate events. Located 1.3 km from AJ Hackett Bungy Jumping at Kawarau Bridge, 18 km from Queenstown Event Centre, and a 20-minute drive from Queenstown Airport, Gibbston Valley Lodge & Spa offers parking and effortless access to Central Otago's renowned wineries, trails, and cultural attractions. This sophisticated haven delivers an exquisite fusion of opulent luxury and the vibrant allure of New Zealand's wine country heart.
From £255 per night
Rimu Lodge, a luxurious five-star retreat nestled in native bush on a ridge top overlooking the Hokitika River, captivates with serene silence and majestic vistas of snow-clad mountains and fertile farmlands, offering an enchanting escape in the heart of New Zealand's West Coast. The four individually styled en-suite rooms, two on the ground floor and two on the first, are crafted for intimate comfort, featuring air-conditioned elegance, flat-screen TVs, refrigerators, kettles, and plush private bathrooms with showers, hairdryers, and complimentary toiletries. Each room boasts a balcony maximizing breathtaking views of the Hokitika River, native bush, or distant mountains, creating a tranquil sanctuary for couples or nature lovers. Complimentary Wi-Fi weaves seamless connectivity into this serene haven. While dining is not onsite, the nearby Hokitika town, a short drive away, offers a vibrant array of culinary experiences showcasing fresh, local West Coast flavours. Guests can unwind in the lodge's lush garden or cozy shared lounge, or venture out for hiking, fishing, or cycling in the surrounding wilderness. Attentive hosts curate bespoke experiences, from exploring the region's rugged beauty to discovering local gems, ensuring every moment pulses with the area's untamed allure. Located 48 km from Greymouth Railway Station and 10 km from Hokitika Airport, Rimu Lodge offers parking and effortless access to the West Coast's dramatic landscapes and natural wonders. This evocative haven weaves an exquisite fusion of opulent luxury and the vibrant, untamed pulse of New Zealand's wilderness heart.
From £270 per night
Sofitel Queenstown Hotel and Spa, a radiant five-star sanctuary in the heart of Queenstown, New Zealand, enchants with a mesmerizing fusion of Parisian elegance and local avant-garde flair, weaving French art de vivre with the warm hospitality of the Southern Alps. The 84 luxuriously appointed guest rooms and suites, adorned with French antique charm, glow with air-conditioned sophistication, featuring Sofitel's “MyBed,” underfloor heating, LCD TVs, DVD players, modern surround sound, espresso machines, and marble bathrooms with double spa baths, separate rain showers, and French-inspired toiletries. Plush New Zealand possum throws and a pillow menu elevate the experience, with many rooms unveiling breathtaking views of Queenstown's vibrant streets or surrounding mountains, crafting an opulent haven for couples, families, or adventurers. Complimentary Wi-Fi ensures seamless connectivity. Left Bank Café, a charming Parisian-style eatery, serves vibrant breakfasts and brunch, while 1789 Bistro dazzles with a fresh, flavourful menu paired with a curated cocktail selection and an indulgent international wine list showcasing Central Otago's finest Pinot Noirs. Le Salon Rouge - Gin Bar and Le Petit Salon ignite evenings with decadent vibes. So Spa, an intimate sanctuary, rejuvenates with treatments uniting mind, body, and spirit. Attentive concierge services curate bespoke Queenstown adventures, from lakeside strolls to ski resort thrills or Skyline Luge excitement. Perched a five-minute walk from Skyline Gondola, 15 minutes from Queenstown Gardens, and 15 minutes from Queenstown Airport, Sofitel Queenstown Hotel and Spa offers parking and effortless access to the region's dining, entertainment, and adventure attractions. This luminous haven ignites an exquisite fusion of opulent luxury and the vibrant, alpine pulse of Queenstown's dynamic heart.
From £135 per night
Hotel St Moritz Queenstown, a luxurious five-star retreat in the heart of Queenstown, New Zealand, embodies the town's warm spirit and distinctive style, offering understated elegance with panoramic views of Lake Wakatipu and The Remarkables mountain range. The 134 elegantly appointed guest rooms and One or Two Bedroom Alpine Suites, blending timeless classics with modern essentials, feature air-conditioned comfort, 40-inch LCD TVs with in-room movies, iPod docking stations, satellite TV, reading chairs, writing desks, tea/coffee making facilities, minibars, and plush en-suite bathrooms with premium toiletries. Many rooms showcase stunning lake or mountain views, creating a refined sanctuary for couples, families, or adventurers. Complimentary Wi-Fi ensures seamless connectivity, enhancing the indulgent experience. Lombardi Restaurant, with its relaxed brasserie-style ambiance, serves exquisite cuisine crafted from fresh, local ingredients, offering superb views of the lake, mountains, and town centre, while Lombardi Bar provides wine, cocktails, and other drinks. Guests can unwind in the garden's hot tub, maintain their routine in the fitness centre, or relax with attentive concierge services curating bespoke Queenstown experiences, from adventure activities to dining. Located a short walk from Queenstown's vibrant town centre, 4 km from Skyline Gondola and Luge, 9.3 km from Lake Wakatipu's shores, and 7 km from Queenstown Airport, Hotel St Moritz Queenstown offers parking and effortless access to the region's premier recreational and cultural attractions. This sophisticated haven delivers an exquisite fusion of opulent luxury and the vibrant allure of Queenstown's dynamic alpine heart.
From £120 per night
Marsden Lake Resort Central Otago, a luxurious five-star retreat on the shores of Lake Dunstan, offers a picturesque escape in the heart of Central Otago's sunny Pisa Moorings, just 7 km from Cromwell Centre, blending modern elegance with warm regional hospitality. The modern and spacious accommodations, including one- and three-bedroom boatshed-themed villas and upper-level studio rooms, feature air-conditioned comfort, flat-screen TVs, and plush bathrooms with premium toiletries. Villas offer decks with direct lake access, ideal for families, while studios cater to couples or business travellers, many showcasing spectacular lake or mountain views, creating a refined sanctuary. Complimentary Wi-Fi and free parking ensure seamless connectivity and convenience, with direct lake access for guests bringing boats. The Moorings Restaurant and Bar serves sophisticated casual cuisine for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, featuring barista coffee, pizza, and bar snacks, all enjoyed with stunning lake and mountain views. Guests can unwind at the onsite bar, while the reception team curates bespoke Central Otago experiences, from helicopter flights and winery tours to visits to Highlands Motorsport Park or local ski fields, enhancing the region's adventurous allure. Located a 45-minute drive from Queenstown, 40 minutes from Wanaka, and 7 km from Cromwell Centre, Marsden Lake Resort Central Otago offers effortless access to Central Otago's ski fields, wineries, and cultural attractions. This sophisticated haven delivers an exquisite fusion of opulent luxury and the vibrant allure of New Zealand's dynamic heart.
From £85 per night
Sudima Christchurch City, a radiant five-star haven pulsing in the heart of Christchurch, New Zealand, captivates with modern elegance and vibrant urban energy, offering a sophisticated retreat steps from the city's cultural and artistic treasures. The 86 stylishly appointed guest rooms, crafted for refined comfort, gleam with air-conditioned sophistication, featuring flat-screen TVs, plush bedding, and sleek bathrooms with premium toiletries. Many rooms unveil views of the bustling cityscape or nearby Hagley Park, creating an inviting sanctuary for couples, families, or business travellers. Complimentary Wi-Fi weaves seamless connectivity into this opulent escape. The onsite restaurant serves a vibrant buffet breakfast and contemporary cuisine showcasing fresh, local ingredients, while the chic bar offers craft cocktails and fine wines. Guests can energize in the state-of-the-art fitness centre or unwind with 24-hour room service. The 24-hour front desk and attentive concierge curate bespoke Christchurch experiences, from exploring the Christchurch Art Gallery to strolling through Victoria Square, amplifying the city's cultural allure. Perched 700 metres from Christchurch Art Gallery, less than 1 km from Canterbury Museum, 900 metres from the city centre, and near Hagley Park, Victoria Square, and Bridge of Remembrance, with Christchurch International Airport 9 km away, Sudima Christchurch City offers private parking and effortless access to the city's iconic cultural and natural landmarks. This luminous haven ignites an exquisite fusion of opulent luxury and the vibrant pulse of Christchurch's dynamic heart.
From £100 per night