New Zealand, it’s got everything an outdoor enthusiast could ever want: wild beaches, majestic peaks, vast wildernesses, and lush green forests. Each region boasts a unique combination of nature, culture, modernity and experiences to suit every interest. The land of the long white cloud is also blessed with some of the most exquisite luxury accommodation. Located amidst vineyards, by the water’s edge, surrounded by gardens, fringed by national parks, or at the foot of the mountains, these 12 private villas are ideal if you want to explore NZ in style.
Seascape at Annandale
This architectural masterpiece is as stunning as the views that surround it. Seascape at Annandale is an impressive seaside hideaway just for two. It features a secluded location, a full wall made of glass, outdoor deck with a fireplace, spa bath, and just about every modern convenience you can think of. More than that, this fabulous villa retreat opens to a plethora of outdoor adventures and relaxing indulgences that include kayaking, cruises, spa treatments, cooking lessons, and art classes.
Piwakawaka Point
Stone and wood combine to create this welcoming luxury lodge on the edge of Lake Wanaka. With gorgeous interiors and six beautifully appointed bedrooms, this amazing property boasts acres of lakeside farmland and a location that’s only a 20-minute drive to the town. Enjoy a round of golf, ski at Treble Cone, or simply enjoy the home’s amenities, including a media and games room, wine cellar, spa pool, sauna, and tennis court.
Bellbrae
Set in the idyllic resort town of Queenstown, Bellbrae is the kind of luxury villa that not only showcases its gorgeous surrounds but also provide all the relaxation and fun you need when on holiday. Five king bedrooms, all with ensuite bathrooms, large timber balconies, expansive gardens, a heated spa, and billiards room — it’s definitely more than your ordinary holiday rental. You could lounge here all day or choose to explore the town’s popular wine estates, gourmet restaurants, and indulge in many invigorating outdoor activities.
Kohatu
Just a few minutes away from the town centre, Kohatu is a gorgeous holiday retreat with five generous bedrooms in Wanaka. Nestled in a lush 15-acre property surrounded by manicured gardens, this luxury home has a theatre, heated pool, games room, tennis court, and living areas with fireplaces. Beyond the home, you can enjoy an array of outdoor activities like skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and paddleboarding.
Te Whau Point
With sublime views as far as the eye can see, Te Whau Point on Waiheke Island, about an hour from Auckland, is the perfect place to relax and unwind. Enjoy the sea breeze from the expansive lawn and take your morning coffee on the covered patio. Four light-filled bedrooms and multiple indoor and outdoor spaces make this luxury villa ideal for a larger group of friends or family. And with a location only 10 minutes from the beaches and wineries, Te Whau Point is a top choice for those who want that laid-back island living.
Three Peaks
Not all homes in New Zealand are created equal, and Three Peaks in Lower Shotover definitely trumps most when it comes to views. Imagine having all three mountain peaks — Coronet, Remarkables, and Crown — right outside your window? Match that with equally amazing in-house features: four bedrooms, two living areas, a fully equipped kitchen, and an outdoor patio with a fireplace and what you have is the perfect getaway for a group of 8 people.
Eagles Nest
Find yourself in the scenic milieu of the Bay of Islands at Eagles Nest. This multi-award winning world-class retreat offers magnificent views and five ultra-luxurious villas that discerning travellers will love. Be prepared to be waited on hand and foot when you stay here. Arrange for fishing trips or helicopter rides, enjoy superb dining from the resident chefs, and rejuvenate with a spa treatment. Or simply delight in the exquisite amenities of your private villa including an infinity pool, jacuzzi, day beds, and a fully equipped kitchen.
Shimmerlake
The whole point of being in New Zealand is enjoying the outdoors. And Shimmerlake in Queenstown definitely puts you in a position to take advantage of this fantastic setting. Boasting pristine views of Lake Wakatipu and The Remarkables mountain range, plus a location near the town centre, Shimmerlake is a relaxing getaway for a family or group of friends. You’ll love the five spacious bedrooms, alfresco dining overlooking the lake, home theatre, and the gourmet kitchen for whipping up delicious home-cooked meals.
Ladena
Queenstown is renowned for its placid lakes and majestic mountains. And here, within this beautiful locale, lies Ladena, a luxury hillside holiday home with lake vistas from every corner. Savour these views in the bedroom, in the living area, or by the outdoor spa pool. You can immerse yourself in the region further by exploring Queenstown and discovering its wineries, restaurants, and adventure activities.
Shotover Point
This gorgeous stone farm lodge has every modern convenience you can think of. Surrounded by manicured lawns and a vineyard, Shotover Point boasts 3 large bedrooms, an open-plan living area, stone fireplace, outdoor patio with BBQ, and 360-degree views of the wilderness. Stylish and contemporary interiors perfectly combine with rugged exteriors to make this the perfect private villa for a group of 6 friends or family in Queenstown.
The Boathouse
Set on the edge of Wairoa Bay in the picturesque and serene Bay of Islands, The Boathouse is the perfect place to take a break and immerse in the beauty of nature. This striking, woolshed-inspired luxury villa gives you access to private beaches, wildlife sanctuaries, hiking and biking trails, and fascinating historic sites. Back at the villa, you can relax in absolute luxury. Unwind on your private terrace, work up a sweat in the gym, tennis court, or the steam room. Then later, snuggle up in your king or twin bed for a restful night’s sleep.
Hei Matau
If it’s views you’re after, Hei Matau certainly fits the bill. Set on the shores of a picturesque and secluded Waiheke Beach, within an exclusive 7.5 acres of land, this property gives you uninterrupted sea views, access to the beach, and spectacular sunsets every day. And what’s not to love about this home when you’ve got five large bedrooms, an infinity swimming pool, a spa pool, and open plan living area that looks out to panoramic views from the floor-to-ceiling glass walls? We think you’ll adore it.
In one of the most alluring and breathtaking locations in the world, it seems almost a necessity that your accommodation should match your impressive surrounds. These are just a handful of the many stunning private villas that you’ll find scattered across the stunning New Zealand countryside that will make your visit truly unforgettable.
Mat Lewis is Co-Founder & CEO of View Retreats. View Retreats is a boutique travel agency featuring handpicked, luxury accommodation across Australia & New Zealand.If you would like to be a guest blogger on A Luxury Travel Blog in order to raise your profile, please contact us.
Mat Lewis is a co-founder of View Retreats and has been in the travel and hospitality industry for over two decades. He established View Retreats in 2013 in Australia as a specialist platform for luxury hotels, resorts and one-of-a-kind havens of relaxation where unforgettable travel memories are made. The online travel company now features over 5,000 properties in more than 120 countries worldwide. Mat is a self-confessed travel junkie who has lived in Asia, the UK and Europe, and currently resides in the beautiful Barossa Valley wine region in South Australia. He loves fine wines and local culinary creations that tell the story of the land. His epicurean tastes don’t get in the way of enjoying life’s simpler pleasures though, and he enjoys gardening, bush-walking, and exciting street food flavours too!
Did you enjoy this article?
Receive similar content direct to your inbox.
10 Comments
View Retreats is such an appropriate name for a company looking after these stunning properties. They all really are about their place in nature, giving great views with their vast picture windows and they are peaceful serene retreats too, far away from the hustle and noise of urban life. This magnificent dozen are in locations where you can breathe in clean fresh air. You couldn’t have chosen a better name for the company.
Thank you for your comment Craig :) it took us a while to come up with the name! We’re very lucky we are able to share these stunning properties with the rest of the world.
The amazing feature of these villas is that they don’t put up barriers against the outside world. There’s a continuity to the flow that invites the natural world into the villas with a beautiful minimalist clean aesthetic. The rooms look as if they are flooded with light, sitting or eating inside you would hardly know that you were indoors. After all you’ve travelled to enjoy New Zealand’s beautiful landscape and skies why lock it out with doors and walls?
I totally agree Liz! Why travel so far to see walls ;) surround yourself by nature and the amazing scenery this country has on offer. It really is spectacular. Have you been?
Most of these seem to make good use of natural light with large windows and more glass in general for the construction, so they look ultra modern too. I have a feeling my sousing has stayed at Three Peaks. I wouldn’t swear to it, but I’m pretty sure that’s where they went the other year, and I remember them saying they enjoyed a little hiking nearby. Personally I love the sound of the Te Whau Point villa, the views are just incredible and it has a calming feel about it. I wonder if there’s much in the way of local amenities nearby? The location sounds spot on for the beach though.
Hello Jen, there are lots of hiking spots from Three Peaks so it could well be where they stayed. I’m sure they loved it What’s not to love about New Zealand…?! Te Whau Point is located on Waiheke Island – an hour by ferry outside of Auckland. There are many different beaches and Onetangi Beach is only 6 km away from the property. There are also many wineries and restauarnts on the island so lots to do and experience.
I know that New Zealand is a place for enjoying the great outdoors and taking in the wonder of the landscape. Yet, it’s a tough landscape that takes its toll whether you are walking, cycling, climbing or canoeing.
I can see the attraction of villas like these. Even when you’ve finished your day’s exertions you can sit in the lounge of one of these villas and still taken in the great views.
I expect that even some of the bathrooms have brilliant views.
Hi Jack – New Zealand is all about the great outdoors and I agree, it’s nice to come back after a day’s of hiking or other activities. And yes…some of these have got spectacular bathrooms with views…I will never get out of that bath, that’s for sure.
12 wasn’t enough for me. Nor was I just satisfied with New Zealand. I spent a few minutes on the View Retreats website. There are plenty more where this 12 came from.
Piwakawaka Point
Stone and wood combine to create this welcoming luxury lodge on the edge of Lake Wanaka. With gorgeous interiors and six beautifully appointed bedrooms, this amazing property boasts acres of lakeside farmland and a location that’s only a 20-minute drive to the town. Enjoy a round of golf, ski at Treble Cone, or simply enjoy the home’s amenities, including a media and games room, wine cellar, spa pool, sauna, and tennis court.
Piwakawaka Point
Stone and wood combine to create this welcoming luxury lodge on the edge of Lake Wanaka. With gorgeous interiors and six beautifully appointed bedrooms, this amazing property boasts acres of lakeside farmland and a location that’s only a 20-minute drive to the town. Enjoy a round of golf, ski at Treble Cone, or simply enjoy the home’s amenities, including a media and games room, wine cellar, spa pool, sauna, and tennis court.
Bellbrae
Set in the idyllic resort town of Queenstown, Bellbrae is the kind of luxury villa that not only showcases its gorgeous surrounds but also provide all the relaxation and fun you need when on holiday. Five king bedrooms, all with ensuite bathrooms, large timber balconies, expansive gardens, a heated spa, and billiards room — it’s definitely more than your ordinary holiday rental. You could lounge here all day or choose to explore the town’s popular wine estates, gourmet restaurants, and indulge in many invigorating outdoor activities.
Kohatu
Just a few minutes away from the town centre, Kohatu is a gorgeous holiday retreat with five generous bedrooms in Wanaka. Nestled in a lush 15-acre property surrounded by manicured gardens, this luxury home has a theatre, heated pool, games room, tennis court, and living areas with fireplaces. Beyond the home, you can enjoy an array of outdoor activities like skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and paddleboarding.
Te Whau Point
With sublime views as far as the eye can see, Te Whau Point on Waiheke Island, about an hour from Auckland, is the perfect place to relax and unwind. Enjoy the sea breeze from the expansive lawn and take your morning coffee on the covered patio. Four light-filled bedrooms and multiple indoor and outdoor spaces make this luxury villa ideal for a larger group of friends or family. And with a location only 10 minutes from the beaches and wineries, Te Whau Point is a top choice for those who want that laid-back island living.
Three Peaks
Not all homes in New Zealand are created equal, and Three Peaks in Lower Shotover definitely trumps most when it comes to views. Imagine having all three mountain peaks — Coronet, Remarkables, and Crown — right outside your window? Match that with equally amazing in-house features: four bedrooms, two living areas, a fully equipped kitchen, and an outdoor patio with a fireplace and what you have is the perfect getaway for a group of 8 people.
Eagles Nest
Find yourself in the scenic milieu of the Bay of Islands at Eagles Nest. This multi-award winning world-class retreat offers magnificent views and five ultra-luxurious villas that discerning travellers will love. Be prepared to be waited on hand and foot when you stay here. Arrange for fishing trips or helicopter rides, enjoy superb dining from the resident chefs, and rejuvenate with a spa treatment. Or simply delight in the exquisite amenities of your private villa including an infinity pool, jacuzzi, day beds, and a fully equipped kitchen.
Shimmerlake
The whole point of being in New Zealand is enjoying the outdoors. And Shimmerlake in Queenstown definitely puts you in a position to take advantage of this fantastic setting. Boasting pristine views of Lake Wakatipu and The Remarkables mountain range, plus a location near the town centre, Shimmerlake is a relaxing getaway for a family or group of friends. You’ll love the five spacious bedrooms, alfresco dining overlooking the lake, home theatre, and the gourmet kitchen for whipping up delicious home-cooked meals.
Ladena
Queenstown is renowned for its placid lakes and majestic mountains. And here, within this beautiful locale, lies Ladena, a luxury hillside holiday home with lake vistas from every corner. Savour these views in the bedroom, in the living area, or by the outdoor spa pool. You can immerse yourself in the region further by exploring Queenstown and discovering its wineries, restaurants, and adventure activities.
Shotover Point
This gorgeous stone farm lodge has every modern convenience you can think of. Surrounded by manicured lawns and a vineyard, Shotover Point boasts 3 large bedrooms, an open-plan living area, stone fireplace, outdoor patio with BBQ, and 360-degree views of the wilderness. Stylish and contemporary interiors perfectly combine with rugged exteriors to make this the perfect private villa for a group of 6 friends or family in Queenstown.
The Boathouse
Set on the edge of Wairoa Bay in the picturesque and serene Bay of Islands, The Boathouse is the perfect place to take a break and immerse in the beauty of nature. This striking, woolshed-inspired luxury villa gives you access to private beaches, wildlife sanctuaries, hiking and biking trails, and fascinating historic sites. Back at the villa, you can relax in absolute luxury. Unwind on your private terrace, work up a sweat in the gym, tennis court, or the steam room. Then later, snuggle up in your king or twin bed for a restful night’s sleep.
Hei Matau
If it’s views you’re after, Hei Matau certainly fits the bill. Set on the shores of a picturesque and secluded Waiheke Beach, within an exclusive 7.5 acres of land, this property gives you uninterrupted sea views, access to the beach, and spectacular sunsets every day. And what’s not to love about this home when you’ve got five large bedrooms, an infinity swimming pool, a spa pool, and open plan living area that looks out to panoramic views from the floor-to-ceiling glass walls? We think you’ll adore it.
In one of the most alluring and breathtaking locations in the world, it seems almost a necessity that your accommodation should match your impressive surrounds. These are just a handful of the many stunning private villas that you’ll find scattered across the stunning New Zealand countryside that will make your visit truly unforgettable.
Mat Lewis is Co-Founder & CEO of View Retreats. View Retreats is a boutique travel agency featuring handpicked, luxury accommodation across Australia & New Zealand.
If you would like to be a guest blogger on A Luxury Travel Blog in order to raise your profile, please contact us.
View Retreats is such an appropriate name for a company looking after these stunning properties. They all really are about their place in nature, giving great views with their vast picture windows and they are peaceful serene retreats too, far away from the hustle and noise of urban life. This magnificent dozen are in locations where you can breathe in clean fresh air. You couldn’t have chosen a better name for the company.
Thank you for your comment Craig :) it took us a while to come up with the name! We’re very lucky we are able to share these stunning properties with the rest of the world.
The amazing feature of these villas is that they don’t put up barriers against the outside world. There’s a continuity to the flow that invites the natural world into the villas with a beautiful minimalist clean aesthetic. The rooms look as if they are flooded with light, sitting or eating inside you would hardly know that you were indoors. After all you’ve travelled to enjoy New Zealand’s beautiful landscape and skies why lock it out with doors and walls?
I totally agree Liz! Why travel so far to see walls ;) surround yourself by nature and the amazing scenery this country has on offer. It really is spectacular. Have you been?
Most of these seem to make good use of natural light with large windows and more glass in general for the construction, so they look ultra modern too. I have a feeling my sousing has stayed at Three Peaks. I wouldn’t swear to it, but I’m pretty sure that’s where they went the other year, and I remember them saying they enjoyed a little hiking nearby. Personally I love the sound of the Te Whau Point villa, the views are just incredible and it has a calming feel about it. I wonder if there’s much in the way of local amenities nearby? The location sounds spot on for the beach though.
Hello Jen, there are lots of hiking spots from Three Peaks so it could well be where they stayed. I’m sure they loved it What’s not to love about New Zealand…?! Te Whau Point is located on Waiheke Island – an hour by ferry outside of Auckland. There are many different beaches and Onetangi Beach is only 6 km away from the property. There are also many wineries and restauarnts on the island so lots to do and experience.
I know that New Zealand is a place for enjoying the great outdoors and taking in the wonder of the landscape. Yet, it’s a tough landscape that takes its toll whether you are walking, cycling, climbing or canoeing.
I can see the attraction of villas like these. Even when you’ve finished your day’s exertions you can sit in the lounge of one of these villas and still taken in the great views.
I expect that even some of the bathrooms have brilliant views.
Hi Jack – New Zealand is all about the great outdoors and I agree, it’s nice to come back after a day’s of hiking or other activities. And yes…some of these have got spectacular bathrooms with views…I will never get out of that bath, that’s for sure.
12 wasn’t enough for me. Nor was I just satisfied with New Zealand. I spent a few minutes on the View Retreats website. There are plenty more where this 12 came from.
Absolutely agree Dave, it’s hard to pick favourites when there are so many beautiful options available :)