Postcard from New Zealand
The world is wide and there's always more to see, and we know that keeping track of the wheres, whens, whats, and hows of travel is quite a task. But that's what we're here for! The Postcard is our guide to the quick hits of a trip - the highlights we want to send back to travelers when we're on the ground in a place.
100,000 square miles of the world’s most beautiful landscapes is the birth-right of every New Zealander. Luckily, the Kiwis are willing to share their splendid land with those who take the time to visit. No matter where you’re coming from, a trip to Aotearoa is trek, so pack your bags and spend your time – this is a place worth savoring.
Even among hard-to-impress travel professionals, New Zealand consistently wows. This remote nation feels somehow like an improbable secret - it's home to more than five times as many sheep as people, was famously the epic setting for the Lord of the Rings films, and is one of the least densely populated countries on earth. Its two islands balance each other beautifully: On the North Island, geothermal steam rises from the earth in the middle of Rotorua, and sailboats slice through impossibly blue waters in the Bay of Islands. Hawke's Bay and Martinborough produce some of the country's finest Syrah and Pinot Noir, and Māori culture is vibrant, concentrated in the Northland and Auckland regions.
Cross to the South Island and the scale shifts entirely: Queenstown is your base for all things adventure (after all, the country is the birthplace of bungee jumping). Sauv blanc drinkers will need to make a stop here, as Marlborough produces roughly 75% of all New Zealand wine, and its Sauvignon Blanc is arguably the most recognizable wine style to come out of the Southern Hemisphere. Die hard skiers will want to visit in the winter months, but the mountains are equally stunning in the summer. To hit both islands, two weeks is the minimum; three is better.
December to March (Peak Summer)
The warmest and driest season across both islands, with long days, and the full range of activities available. Ideal for combining North and South Islands.
March to May (Autumn)
A beautiful time on the South Island, as deciduous trees turn gold around Queenstown, Wānaka, and the Mackenzie Country. The North Island remains warm through April.
June to August (Winter)
Ski season in the South Island
Book 9 to 12 months in advance for peak summer (and longer for the December holidays.) The best lodges in New Zealand are small and book quickly. This means now is a great time to get next year's epic adventure on the books.
N O R T H I S L A N D
Rosewood Kauri Cliffs
World-famous for its breathtaking golf course on the east coast of sub-tropical Northland, The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs has also forged a reputation for excellence in dining and accommodation. The property has a variety of villas dotted along the golf course, each with its own private deck and views across the Pacific Ocean. | See the hotel
The Boatshed
Just a 40-minute ferry ride from Auckland, the luxury designer suites are very intimate at Waiheke Island's Boatshed offer panoramic ocean views. The vibes here are beachy and breezy, and much of the produce comes from the picture-perfect on-property garden. Walk on the beach, read a book in the sun, relax, and be pampered. | See the hotel
Huka Lodge
Huka Lodge has played host to everyone from Queen Elizabeth II to Bill Gates and Mick Jagger during her 100-year existence. The property reopened in 2025 following a refresh, and features floor-to-ceiling windows and double-sided fireplaces to make the most of its riverside setting. Huka Spa Huts are scattered throughout the lush grounds, for serious relaxation time. | See the hotel
Rosewood Cape Kidnappers
This 6,000-acre farm with 180-degree views of the Pacific Ocean offers something for every traveler. With rolling cliffs that plunge dramatically to the sea, the setting is ideal for couples and romantic private beach picnics are a must. Families and adventure-seekers will find a plethora of activities, such as farm tours, a Kiwi bird preserve, and one of the world’s best golf courses. | See the hotel
S O U T H I S L A N D
Otahuna Lodge
New Zealand’s largest private historic residence, this Victorian mansion built in 1895 offers a singular hospitality experience. Stroll through pastoral gardens filled with blooms and sip a cup of tea by the fire, but don't be late for dinner - meals are a highlight here, as are the individually decorated suites and time with owners Hall and Miles. | See the hotel
Minaret Station
Minaret Station is a 65,000 acre private high country farm adjoining Mt Aspiring National Park. The two large rivers flanking the property create the perfect frame for a true wilderness playground, all accessible only be heli. Minaret consists of just four alpine chalets, luxuriously furnished with private decks, hot tubs and king beds. | See the hotel
Blanket Bay
Near Glenorchy, Blanket Bay is set on the shores of Lake Wakatipu. The natural timber and stone works perfectly with the surrounding alpine landscape, and the atmosphere is calm and refined, ideal for relaxing with sweeping lake and mountain views. The remote location offers direct access to hiking, fishing, and outdoor adventures. | See the hotel
Rosewood Matakauri Lodge
In New Zealand’s Southern Alps, Matakauri truly makes you feel like you’ve reached the edge of the earth. With beautifully decorated cabin-style accommodations, guests can luxuriate by personal fireplaces and take in the lake view, but five minutes away, heli tours of the glaciers, bungee jumping, mountain biking, and hiking activities beckon. | See the hotel
Hawke's Bay Wine and Bike Tour
North Island
Ride through Hawke's Bay, one of New Zealand's most acclaimed wine regions and best year-round cycling destinations. Wide, smooth, mostly flat limesand trails wind past vineyards, olive groves, and orchards, and you've got a professional cycling guide leading the way. The route hits some of the region's finest estates: Elephant Hill, Clearview, Black Barn, Te Mata, and Craggy Range, with plenty of stops to taste along the way.
Bay of Islands by Boat
North Island
Cruise through the Bay of Islands, an enclave of 140 subtropical islands famed for untouched beaches, big-game fishing, and rich Māori history. Your knowledgeable crew will guide you through the harbor's maritime and cultural significance, with time for beachcombing, a walk, and lunch along the way.
South Fiordland Wilderness Rafting
South Island
Jet boat across Lake Hauroko (New Zealand's deepest lake) to the start of a full-day raft down the Wairaurahiri River, navigating fun Class 2 rapids through ancient rainforest all the way to the Southern Coast. The day ends at a private wilderness hut with a beach stroll, bonfire, and chef-prepared dinner under views stretching to Stewart Island.
Milford Sound Helicopter Excursion with Glacier Landing & Picnic
South Island
Sweep over the Southern Alps by helicopter on a four-hour Milford Sound excursion, taking in alpine lakes, rainforest valleys, and rugged peaks. Land on a deserted Fiordland beach, cruise the full length of the fiord past coastal wildlife colonies, and finish with a glacial landing and picnic lunch in a secluded wilderness site.
Ski-ji
Three hours from Auckland, Fiji feels like a reward for making it this far across the Pacific. Ski bunnies take note: this pairing works best during New Zealand's winter.
Asia Pacific
Air New Zealand flies nonstop from Auckland to Tokyo in 11 hours. From geothermal Rotorua to a ryokan in Kyoto, the contrast alone is worth the trip.
Deep South
Reachable in 12 hours from Auckland to Santiago (with a short onward connection), New Zealand and Patagonia is a dream pairing for anyone who can't get enough dramatic, end-of-the-world wilderness.
