A luxury winter in New Zealand

New Zealand’s winter transforms its landscapes into pure beauty, offering exceptional opportunities for luxury travellers seeking unforgettable experiences. Beyond the traditional ski slopes is a world of exclusive adventures that combines natural wonders with luxury comfort. With Aroha Luxury New Zealand Tours, these winter experiences can become a reality, crafted specifically to your preferences and interests. Here’s your guide to enjoying the best winter getaways in NZ.

A luxurious mountain haven: Matakauri Lodge

On the edge of Lake Wakatipu, Matakauri Lodge epitomises refined luxury in the heart of New Zealand’s winter. Just minutes from Queenstown’s ski fields, this retreat provides an unmatched base for your winter adventures. Through floor-to-ceiling windows, each of the suites grabs the breathtaking beauty of the Remarkables mountain range, while private fireplaces cast a glow over elegant interiors.

As evening descends on the lake, guests can relax in secluded hot tubs, enjoying the sunset as it decorates the snow-covered mountains. After a day of skiing, the in-house spa invites you to treatments designed to relieve tired, winter-stressed muscles. Meanwhile, the restaurant proposes a seasonal menu featuring exceptional New Zealand dishes expertly paired with wines from the lodge’s cellar.

Lakestone Lodge, relaxed luxury immersed in stunning views

On the shores of Lake Pukaki, Lakestone Lodge offers relaxed luxury in a setting of awe-inspiring natural beauty. This intimate retreat provides an immersive experience, with breathtaking views of turquoise waters set against the backdrop of the snow-capped Southern Alps.

The lodge’s unpretentious approach to luxury shines through in thoughtful details like heated floors, merino wool bedding, and fireplaces. The open kitchen concept brings guests together over seasonally inspired meals featuring regional ingredients paired with Central Otago wines. The hot tub offers the most magical experience as evening arrives, soaking in warm waters while gazing at Aoraki/Mount Cook beneath a star-filled sky. By day, helicopter transfers to nearby ski fields, guided tours, and expert-led stargazing in the Dark Sky Reserve.

Wanaka’s hidden gem: Whare Kea Lodge

Located along the edge of Lake Wanaka, Whare Kea Lodge is especially suited to larger groups seeking private luxury. This stunning hideaway blends intimate hospitality with expansive spaces, making it great for multi-generational families or groups of friends looking for a private winter escape.

What sets Whare Kea apart is its dedication to culinary excellence. The lodge’s private chef creates bespoke menus celebrating local ingredients and seasonal flavours, guaranteeing that each meal is unique. Whether you prefer a formal dinner or a casual alpine lunch packed for a day out, every meal is crafted with care and passion. The chef’s table experiences highlight New Zealand’s gastronomic capabilities, complemented by wine pairings from the country’s finest vineyards.

Mount Cook: The ultimate heli-skiing paradise

Mount Cook’s terrain is the backdrop for some of New Zealand’s exclusive heli-skiing adventures. Expert guides take thrill-seekers to untouched powder fields that can only be reached by helicopter, where fresh tracks and beautiful views await. The region’s mixed terrain accommodates all skill levels, from intermediate to proficient skiers seeking exhilarating descents.

Enjoy a helicopter ride that reveals the stunning Southern Alps from above. Your skilled guide tailors the day’s routes based on conditions and skill levels, ensuring everyone enjoys the perfect mix of challenge and comfort. Between runs, indulge in gourmet mountain picnics, relax, and take in the astonishing winter surroundings.

Queenstown’s ultimate snowmobile adventure

For those after a unique snow experience, partake in an exclusive snowmobile adventure. The journey takes you through spectacular, snow-covered landscapes, reaching lookout points that are unreachable by other means.

These guided tours can be customised to include mountain picnics, photography sessions, and even midnight rides under the stars. More experienced riders can choose a more advanced tour, exploring more challenging terrain, while beginners can enjoy more comfortable trails. The experience can be combined with other winter activities for a full day of alpine adventure, concluding with a helicopter transfer back to your luxury lodge for an evening of fine dining and leisure.

Winter adventures in the Southern Alps

The Southern Alps provide a playground for winter sports lovers seeking exclusive experiences. Coronet Peak becomes a magical sight at night, with lit slopes offering a distinctive and rare skiing experience beneath the stars. Personalised guidance from private instructors is always available, while the ‘First Tracks’ program offers early risers exclusive access to untouched morning runs before the general public arrives.

More advanced skiers can explore off-piste terrain at The Remarkables with expert guides who know the hidden runs. Helicopter access opens up untamed backcountry, where fresh tracks await. Meanwhile, Cardrona Alpine Resort caters to those after Olympic-grade terrain and exclusive mountain hosting services that ensure every moment on the mountain is extraordinary.

Book with us!

New Zealand’s winter experiences distinguish themselves by combining adventure and refined luxury. Whether carving fresh tracks on pristine snow, exploring ice caves, or decompressing in your private suite at a luxury winter lodge, each moment offers extraordinary elegance. This is winter travel elevated to an art form, where natural splendours meet incomparable luxury.