When film-maker, Peter Jackson was deciding where to shoot his epic Lord of the Rings films, he was looking for a place that looked like nowhere else on Earth. He found it in New Zealand.
Behind and within New Zealand’s Middle-earth scenery lie countless other attractions for all tastes and interests: a fascinating blend of European and indigenous Maori culture; countless outdoor adventures; world-class wines; and some of the planet’s most bizarre animals.
Active
PHOTOGRAPHY
MULTI-GENERATIONAL
Traveling the world with your family is like sharing a box filled with presents. The box is the world itself and the presents are the bonds that form through the experiences we share, and the perspective, patience, understanding, and tolerance we gain from expanding our horizons and seeing how other people live. There is no greater gift.
In various destinations around the world, we have highlighted examples of exceptional accommodations that set new standards for aesthetics and responsible tourism. These properties reflect our own company values by emphasizing community involvement and the preservation of cultural heritage, protection of natural resources, and sustainability, both in practice and design. They also combine outstanding comfort and service, natural beauty, and functionality. Where you stay along the way can greatly enhance any journey. Options abound, but these are some of our favorites.
Coining the term “gumboot luxury”, this working coastal farm and four luxury villas are nested between the rolling hills of the Banks Peninsula and the Pacific Ocean. Each villa provides a tranquil, exclusivity featuring award-winning architecture that embodies the natural surroundings.
Minaret Station Alpine Lodge is the epitome of comfort and luxury in the wilds of the Southern Alps. Accessible only by boat or helicopter, Minaret Station treats guests to a unique opportunity to explore the wilderness of New Zealand’s South Island. As a working farm, Minaret Station raises a range of produce and wherever possible the team incorporates fresh and locally caught and gathered ingredients. With only four chalets set against a backdrop of 50,000 acres, Minaret Station is an exclusive gateway to New Zealand’s alpine high country.
In a garden setting overlooking Oneroa Bay on Waiheke Island, this refined boutique hotel brings together chic accommodation with the island’s fantastic beaches, vineyards, coastal walks, and alfresco restaurants. The 5 suites and 2 bungalows are a collection of stylish cottages each with its own eclectic design honoring the traditional Kiwi bach. Owned by the same family for 35 years, The Boatshed is the perfect retreat for exploring the hidden gems of the North Island.
Whether you think of the Lord of the Rings or wine when someone mentions New Zealand, this two week trip across the North and South Islands has something for everyone. Top notch accommodations, unique, off-the-beaten path experiences, exceptional guides, and scenery straight out of a movie. See why New Zealand is consistently ranked as one of the world’s top destinations for adventure seekers, foodies, and beach-lovers alike.
See the most eye-catching locations around Australia and New Zealand. From national parks to vineyard tours, wildlife sightings to world heritage sites, there is something for everyone.
