Rich & Famous-Style Accommodation in New Zealand

Luxury homes in New Zealand’s most idyllic locales offer those with a lot of discretionary income to experience a slice of Kiwi heaven. They attract both famous (from Justin Bieber to Lady Gaga) to more low-profile visitors. What all of the guests have in common is the wish to rest and relax in luxurious comfort on their vacation. Southern Paradise Justin Bieber and Katy Perry have both taken time out from their schedules (not together) to soak up the southern splendour of Queenstown at Lodge at The Hills. Located in The Hills golf course – and owned by Kiwi jewellery king Sir Michael Hill – this spot is worthy of such high-profile guests. The six-suite estate includes an art studio, music and media room, and a wine cellar dining room. It boasts a heated infinity pool, spa pool, sauna, private golf course and outdoor fireplace. Sound good? It should – the high-season rate is $32,250 NZD (approx. $28,150 Cdn) per night.

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Fantasy Island This private island/nature reserve in the Bay of Islands is the perfect escape for anyone with a bit of time (and money) on their hands. Kauri Cove is a beachfront house, on Moturua Island, designed by award-winning New Zealand architect Pete Bossley. Featuring a modest four bedrooms and a kitchen/living space that spills out over an emerald lawn, the property is packed with added extras including a helicopter hangar and helipad, spa pool, private garden and (by arrangement) a private chef. The starting rate is $16,500 NZD (approx. $14,400 Cdn) per night. From Russia, with Love In Russia, dachas are modest holiday homes outside of the cities. The Dacha in Wanaka is a slightly different proposition: a luxury lodge with panoramic views over craggy alpine peaks and glacial valleys. Features of the lodge include 4.8m vaulted ceilings, a schist-clad fireplace and an expansive outdoor area with 180-degree views of Lake Wanaka. You can also enjoy the jet-massage spa, international art collection and heated swimming pool (in summer). All of this for just $7,500 NZD (approx. $6,550 Cdn) per night.

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Waiheke Haven Waiheke Island is no longer the preserve of counterculture types wanting to get away from it all. Ultra-luxe arrived with the exclusive Fossil Cove Estate. Lady Gaga chose this for her getaway. Situated on a headland with spectacular views of Hauraki Gulf in every direction, Fossil Cove features a 17m-infinity pool, on-site helipad and chef service. It is $3,500 NZD (approx. $3,050 Cdn) per night – for a three-night minimum stay. Island Idyll Only accessible by helicopter or boat, Hurakia Lodge on Rakino Island in the Hauraki Gulf is as far away from civilization as you can get in the Auckland area. With five double ensuite bedrooms, including the President’s Suite – featuring a two-person bath with water views – it’s an ideal place to spend time with your nearest and dearest. There’s an outdoor lap pool, spa and infrared sauna to enjoy – and you can request a personal chef if cooking is not your thing. It’s a steal at just $8,000 NZD (approx. $6,975 Cdn) for the entire lodge for two nights (the minimum off-season booking time).

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