Introduction

When planning your trip to New Zealand, finding the best places to stay is essential. In this blog, we will discuss various options for accommodation in New Zealand. We will not only focus on classic motels and hotels but also include boutique hotels, luxury lodges, stylish bed and breakfasts, farm stays, and cottage stays. Each option offers a unique experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in the local scene and create lasting memories.

Mainstream Hotels

Mainstream hotels in New Zealand provide 24/7 access to reception, essential services, and are often centrally located. These hotels offer a sense of familiarity and convenience, making them a popular choice for many travelers. However, some hotels can be pricey and may have additional charges for services like early check-in or in-room snacks. For a mainstream hotel experience, we recommend the QT Hotel in Auckland, which boasts a prime location at the Viaduct Harbour and features a fantastic restaurant and a rooftop bar.

Boutique Hotels

If you prefer a more personalized and service-focused experience, boutique hotels are an excellent option. These smaller establishments, with around 50 rooms or less, offer a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The staff often greet guests by name, ensuring a memorable stay. While boutique hotels may be slightly more expensive, the personalized experiences they provide are well worth it. Our current favorite boutique hotel in New Zealand is the King and Queen Hotel in New Plymouth. From the moment you walk in, you’ll feel the difference in their attentive and caring staff.

New Zealand Resorts and Retreats

For those seeking a serene countryside experience, New Zealand resorts and retreats are the perfect choice. These accommodations are usually set in beautiful surroundings with breathtaking scenery. They offer a wide range of facilities, activities, and meal options, making them ideal for family travelers. However, staying at a resort or retreat may limit your interactions with the local community. To fully immerse yourself in the local culture, we recommend including a variety of accommodation options in your travel itinerary. One of our top recommendations is Mount Cook Lakeside Retreat near Mount Cook National Park, which offers a truly unforgettable experience.

Luxury Lodges

New Zealand’s luxury lodges are world-class properties known for their stunning locations and luxurious facilities. These lodges are often managed by larger companies and may have international staff. While they offer exceptional service, some guests may miss the authentic local touch-points. Luxury lodges typically include breakfast, dinner, and sometimes lunch, allowing you to indulge in exquisite dining without leaving the property. For a luxury lodge experience, we suggest Otahuna Lodge located outside Christchurch. The lodge’s dedicated and caring local staff, along with the presence of the owners, create a truly special atmosphere.

Boutique Lodges and Bed and Breakfast Stays

Boutique lodges and bed and breakfast stays combine stunning locations, warm hospitality, and excellent facilities. These accommodations are often run by the owners themselves, ensuring a personal touch and a memorable experience. Guests appreciate the opportunity to interact with the owners, who provide valuable local knowledge and recommendations. While most lodges and bed and breakfasts offer breakfast only, some may provide dinner at an additional cost. We highly recommend Mount Michael Lodge in Cromwell, Mount Rosa Queenstown, and High Leys Lodge in Te Anau for an exceptional boutique lodging experience.

Farm Stay

Visiting a farm stay accommodation in New Zealand offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature and experience rural life. While not all farms can accommodate guests due to full-scale farming operations, finding the right place with a welcoming host and a picturesque rural environment can greatly enhance your holiday. A farm stay allows you to share in the remote location, local stories, homemade food, and even participate in farm tours. Cabot Lodge in the Fiordland area is our current top pick for a farm stay, offering first-class accommodation and an exciting beekeeping session.

Cottage Stays

Cottage stays provide an independent and immersive experience of New Zealand’s local culture. Whether it’s a vineyard cottage, farm cottage, or glamping setup, staying in a cottage allows you to enjoy privacy and self-prepared meals. Some cottages are located in remote areas, offering complete seclusion. One unique type of cottage accommodation is the Pure Pods, which are entirely made of glass, providing unmatched views of the surrounding landscapes. Burn Cottage Retreat near Cromwell, Tasman Village Cottage in the Abel Tasman region, and various Pure Pods are our recommended choices for an authentic cottage stay experience.

Conclusion

When traveling in New Zealand, we recommend embracing a mix of accommodation options to fully immerse yourself in the local culture, explore different landscapes, and create unforgettable memories. By combining stays at mainstream hotels, boutique lodges, farm stays, and cottage accommodations, you can enjoy a deeper engagement with the local people and experience the diverse offerings of this beautiful country. So, start planning your trip to New Zealand today and get ready for an extraordinary adventure!