Rosewood Cape Kidnappers

Sitting snug in the idyllic surrounds of the Ahuriri Valley on the working Ben Avon Station, and covering 600 acres of rugged landscape, is the unique and iconic Lindis.

Sat on the shores of the deep Lake Wakatipu, Matakauri Lodge is a tranquil haven of serene blue waters and sweeping mountain landscapes. Snow-capped peaks reach towards the sky, providing a backdrop like no other to this incredible luxury establishment. Modern, bright and with plenty of room, the 16 suites have been styled by the highly celebrated designer Virginia Fisher. Four suites are found in the main lodge section while others have been built in a native forest with alpine panoramas. All have their own private balcony, lounge area and decadent bathroom, not to mention the cosy fireplace. The sizeable Owner’s Cottage is an idyllic getaway for larger groups or families. Boasting a menu that changes constantly with the availability of seasonal produce, the kitchen at Matakauri Lodge focuses on a clean and fresh experience for the palate. There are a number of settings in which to savour this modern New Zealand cuisine, from the privacy of your own patio to the property’s spacious courtyards. Located near great pine thickets, the spa provides an exclusive space where you can rejuvenate and reinvigorate your body with completely personalised treatments. Fall in love with the heated pool, let off some steam in the sauna or enjoy a leisurely time in the hot tub. Whether you arrive to the long, warm days of summer or to a winter wonderland of snow, there is always so much to do during your stay at Matakauri. Walks and hikes dominate the area, as do scenic horse riding trails and wine tours. Avid golfers will rejoice to know a PGA-rated course is nearby; The Hills is surely one of the most stunning and gorgeously isolated round of 18 you can play anywhere in the world.

Otahuna is a Maori word that translates as little hill among the hills. This beautifully restored Victorian house enjoys an idyllic location between the rocky outcrops of the Banks Peninsular, looking out towards the Southern Alps. The house was built in 1895 for Sir Henry Rhodes, a long-term parliamentarian and military officer and served as his private home for many years. The lodge is influenced by English country estates, the dark wood, large fireplaces and antique furniture giving it a classical elegance. There are seven suites, all with ornate fireplaces, and carved inglenooks and deep, oversized bath tubs. There are two master suites, one featuring  four bedrooms and the other a 14m verandah with sweeping views across the Canterbury Plains. Dinner at Otahuna is a four-course tasting menu served in the dining room. The menu celebrates the best of seasonal New Zealand produce, some of which is grown on the estate. Dinner is a sociable affair enjoyed with other guests, but if you’re after something a little more private then there is the option to dine in the library or the drawing room. You can be sure of the perfect accompaniment to your food with fine wines from the lodge’s own cellar. The grounds surrounding Otahuna are as beautiful as the lodge itself. Guests can wander through the daffodil field, through the woods and the Dutch garden and down to the lake, stopping off for a game of petanque or a dip in the outdoor pool.

The 99 rooms, lined in timber, are calming, beautifully designed retreats away from the buzzing city outside. While the Landing Suites offer next-level escapism.