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Keep dreaming of luxury spas and retreats

24th July 2020
Imagine it now, as we journey into our sixth volume of kiwi discovery, the most decadent spas and relaxing retreats that our nation has to offer. From the top of New Zealand to the bottom, we’ve highlighted the best of the best, and the most ‘guaranteed-to-rejuvenate’ spas so that you can have a thermal reprieve from the cold. 
We’ve found the best spas and retreats on offer in New Zealand so you can let the relaxation start right away as we take care of the details for you.
 
Unique and vibrant, the Hapuku Lodge & Tree Houses is a contemporary hotel located on a deer breeding farm in the South Island. Sitting snugly at the base of the beautiful Kaikoura Seaward Mountain Range, with the famed Mangamaunu Bay only a kilometre to the east, this lodge provides a luxurious escape in an intimate and rugged landscape. Fall in love with the nature all around as you undertake exploration of the local wilderness, or let your worries soak away in the massage parlour and spa. If you’re looking for something fresh and new, you can help with picking olives, learn to surf at the beach or just relax by the fire with a glass of wine - however you choose to experience it, this is a new level of excellence to experience!
 

Delamore Lodge, Waiheke Island

Tucked away in seclusion in beautiful Owhanake Bay, the Delamore Lodge offers one of the most stunning and luxurious getaways in the entire Auckland region. Moulded around the very hillside to resemble the shape of a Maori fish hook, you’ll find supreme cliff-top views and unsurpassed luxury service. You’ll be assured of having a memorable stay, whether you’re in need of a romantic weekend getaway, or a longer visit so you can spend some time strolling amidst the many vineyards. Indulge in the many services on offer at the beautiful lodge, whether it’s a luxurious massage package, or a visit to the day-spa, you’ll find perfection at this beautiful getaway.
 

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Green salad, Blanket Bay Luxury Lodge. Credit: Virtuoso, LTD.

Blanket Bay, Queenstown

Situated on the shores of the stunning Lake Wakatipu, and surrounded by the pristine wilderness of Aotearoa, you’ll find relaxation and adventure where luxury accommodation and unparalleled services are complemented by five-star facilities. Enjoy unsurpassed comfort and service in a spectacular setting where grand stone-and-timber architecture and large open-plan log fireplaces blend seamlessly together. Consistently voted as one of the world’s best lodges, Blanket Bay brings you wellness and intimacy in the form of private and beautiful luxury suites. With an on-site gym and spa available at your own leisure, you can relax and rejuvenate your mind, body and soul.

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First Light Villa, Eagle's Nest, Russell. Credit: Virtuoso, LTD.
 

Eagle’s Nest, Bay of Islands

Enjoy additional inclusions at this resort - including Bottle of Louis Roederer Champagne upon arrival - Fresh Seasonal Fruit Platter (replenished daily) - Gourmet breakfast provisions (replenished daily) - Wireless Internet Access - Daily Servicing of Villa
 
A long-standing favourite and a true standard of premium luxury here in Aotearoa, Eagles Nest boasts supreme excellence in the stunning Bay of Islands. This retreat is decadence at its finest, and we recommend that you book a stay here for yourself. Not only will you discover international luxuries, but you’ll find the simplicity of quiet-time, soothing relaxation and the opportunity to refresh and rejuvenate. Plus, with a plethora of experiences to help you truly unwind, you’ll find this luxury experience unlike any other.

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Sunset over Wanaka. Credit: Getty Images

Mahu Whenua, Wanaka

A recurring favourite, the stunning Mahu Whenua Ridgeline Homestead & Eco-Sanctuary offers a uniquely lodge-style accommodation just 10 minutes helicopter from Queenstown, in the private seclusion of a southern ranch. As a Mahu Whenua guest, you will enjoy total privacy, unforgettable experiences and exquisite food and wine in a setting that spans over 55,000 hectares. This majestic beauty, all around, comprises towering mountains, lush green valleys, native bush, forests and meandering rivers. Private suites allow you to comfortably and safely fall asleep by night, whilst a trip to the day spa or to see the masseur can help ease the tensions of the day. 

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Polynesian Spa, Rotorua. Credit: Polynesian Spa

Polynesian Spas, Rotorua

Immerse yourself into the original geothermal bathing experience. The Polynesia Spa is Rotorua’s world famous spring where relaxation and rejuvenation are paramount to the experience. Both historic and therapeutic, you’ll be able to sink into the natural mineral waters where the perfect balance of acidic and alkaline waters blend to present unique spa therapy. With multiple pools, spas and areas to explore, you can truly make the most of an indulgent retreat into the geothermal springs.

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Lupins at Lake Tekapo, New Zealand. Credit: Getty Images

Tekapo Springs, Tekapo

Lift your spirits in the crystal clear waters of the beautiful Tekapo Springs. Take a breath and relax with a complex that blends exciting and relaxing activities into one. From their prime location at the base of Mount John, they have supreme views of the iconic Lake Tekapo and the mountain ranges beyond. Enjoy multiple hot pools, plus an Aqua Play Area with two cooler pools and a myriad of steam and sauna rooms with plunge pools, so that you can truly soak away the stress. 

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Hanmer Springs Township. Credit: Getty Images

Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools, Hanmer Springs

Relax. Indulge. Unwind. The Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa is your gateway to relaxation in the natural and beautiful Hanmer Springs. With a wide range of pools, including relaxing rock pools and soothing sulphur pools, and a wide range of temperatures, you can find a pool that suits you as you sink in and relax. With numerous slides along with an activity pool, lap pool, and lazy river, you’ll find excitement and relaxation aplenty in this beautiful experience.

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Onsen Hot Pools and night. Credit: Onsen Hot Pools

Onsen Hot Pools, Queenstown

Indulge in the tranquility and refined relaxation as you experience this boutique day-spa experience. Boasting a range of idyllic cedar-lined hot pools overlooking the Shotover River, plus a newly expanded facility with beautiful hot tubs, the relaxation and pampering on offer is second to none in the region! Their natural setting is matched by the pure and naturally sourced waters which are captured as it falls from the heavens and used to continuously refresh and revitalise the pools.
 
 
“Be prepared to spend a great day (or more) relaxing in the many pools of the Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools. You can go from tepid water to really hot and there are some pools that have pressure jets to ease those aches and pains. Hanmer Springs has some great cafes within walking distance of the town too and the mini golf course is almost amazing.”
Lesley Masters, Masters & Oretsky Travel Associates, Wellington