When it’s time to indulge yourself on New Zealand’s North Island

Going on vacation always seems like a bit of a splurge, no matter what your budget. For many, a trip to New Zealand is tied to a festive occasion. For some, it’s a milestone anniversary, a family reunion or a honeymoon; for others, it allows them to tick off a bucket list location. While there are plenty of budget and reasonably-priced places to stay on both the North and South Islands, there is a growing trend for even the most budget-conscious visitors to take a night or two and indulge themselves by staying at one of the country’s nicer lodges or hotels.

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The first in a two-part series, we look at interesting, unique and special places to stay on New Zealand’s North Island. The Boatshed on Waiheke Island, just a 40-minute ferry ride from Auckland, offers visitors a charming piece of Kiwi life. The five suites and two bungalows are designed to reflect “baches” – a New Zealand term for a holiday home. It offers an eclectic mix of different buildings, spaces and room types – all with a view of the ocean. And exclusive to guests is fine dining at The Boatshed’s restaurant. Service is in a relaxed, alfresco setting, with exceptional New Zealand seafood and gourmet meat cuts accompanied by organic, locally sourced produce (some grown at The Boatshed). The fact that this luxury accommodation is located on Waiheke Island, which is home to a number of beautiful vineyards and local artists and offers lovely beaches, just makes it that much more of a treat.

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And also for wine lovers, there is Black Barn, located in the wine producing region of Hawke’s Bay. This winery and vineyard produces fabulous wines and also offers accommodation – right in the vineyard. There are 14 distinctive, self-contained accommodations offering character and style. From an eight-bedroom luxury retreat to a two-bedroom turn-of-the-century cottage in the heart of the vineyard, Black Barn offers wine lovers something special, including the fact that everyone at Black Barn loves to talk wine. One question to the staff turns into a half-hour conversation between wine-loving friends. For music fans, Black Barn presents a series of summer concerts where you can sit outside, put your feet up, sip a glass of wine, and enjoy the good life. In the Bay of Islands, travellers can fully indulge themselves at Eagles Nest, which offers a choice of five magnificent villas nestled into a beautiful peninsula with stunning ocean views. The breathtaking scenery blends with the creative and sophisticated architectural and interior design, making the villas feel completely connected to nature. Culinary resources include resident chefs, a superb wine cellar and fresh, locally sourced foods. Eagles Nest is often used by larger families or groups for weddings and other celebrations – allowing event guests to stay together in the villas, creating even greater memories. Air New Zealand (www.airnewzealand.ca) has direct non-stop flights from Vancouver to Auckland and offers flights from many other North American cities. For more information about New Zealand, please visit: www.NewZealand.com.

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