New Zealand is a country of incredible contrast with landscapes constantly shifting throughout the seasons. As the Northern Hemisphere heads into summer, New Zealand slips into winter, with parts of the country truly coming alive. From cozy off-grid escapes to vibrant social scenes, Kiwis offer a diverse array of winter wonderland activities for all.
Cozy Accommodations
From sunken baths perched on clifftops to remote cedar tubs under pristine night skies, Aotearoa has some of the best places to soak up (literally) the views and warm up by the fire.
Whether the desire is to be completely off the grid, nestled high in the trees or absolutely spoilt with luxury, here’s everything needed for the ultimate cozy winter escape in New Zealand. PS – Don’t forget a book!
Hapuku Lodge and Tree Houses – Kaikōura
Sitting at the base of the Kaikōura Seaward Mountain Range, Hapuku Lodge and Tree Houses have bundled breath taking scenery, sustainable luxury and ultimate relaxation into one incredible offering. If you’re feeling adventurous, opt for the Tree House nestled amongst the canopies perched on stilts 10 metres high. This bedroom in the sky provides everything you need to switch off.
The rooms are laid back in style but equipped for the Southern weather, with deep soaking tubs that overlook the Kaikōura mountains and Pacific Ocean and a wood burner which invokes the desire to open a good book.
The Lindis – Ahuriri Valley Soak up the tranquillity of Ahuriri Valley and enjoy some of the most unpolluted night skies in the world from one of New Zealand’s most luxurious locations, The Lindis. An architectural masterpiece, The Lindis has spared nothing when designing the most luxurious getaway, camouflaged in the valley’s rugged southern terrain. Warm up infront of the unique pyramid gas fire and bathe in the private outdoor tubs overlooking the Ahuriri River – simply a once in a lifetime experience.
Castaways Glamping – Auckland
For an off the grid experience, Castaways Glamping allows you to be immersed in the beauty of Aotearoa’s wild west coast whilst keeping a touch of luxury. Perched on the cliff tops and sheltered from the winds, a sole sunken bathtub sits. Soak up the expansive views of Karioitahi Beach and the most magical sunset.
Completely solar powered, the five-star glamping site provides everything you will need for a secluded escape from the city, whilst showcasing the best that the nature of New Zealand has to offer.
Après-ski in style! Unique Bar and Dining Experiences
Everyone knows that the best part of skiing is the après! As winter sets in across the country, here are some of the most unique après-experiences in New Zealand to help lean into the winter spirit.
Coronet Peak Night Ski , Queenstown
Après-ski, Queenstown style! With pizza, beverages and a live DJ spinning tunes, this evening ski option is great for those looking to get their party on after hitting the slopes. A rare evening-ski option in New Zealand, extend your day of adventure with some great atmosphere afterwards.
Remarkables Ice Bar, Curvy’s Basin, Queenstown
Halfway down Curvey’s Basin on one of Queenstown’s most famous ski hills, you’ll find the Remarkables Ice Bar – a great spot for a mulled wine or Kranski sausage, to be enjoyed in an exclusive and truly unique spot with a view.
Opuke Kai, Mount Hutt, Canterbury
The only on-mountain a-la-carte experience in Canterbury, this après-ski spot is a classic Mt Hutt choice, offering spots to cozy up by the fire or bask in sunshine on the deck. A great spot for a mid-run bite or drink, visitors can fuel up before heading down to the mountain’s base.
Rhino’s Ski Shack , Queenstown
Looking for European après-ski vibes with a Kiwi twist? Look no further than Rhino’s Ski Shack, which opened in a brand-new Searle Lane location last winter. Log cabin and vintage ski hill vibes await, as do some of Queenstown’s best hip-hop DJs.
Powderkeg, Ohakune, North Island
The North Island’s centre for après-ski, Ohakune’s Powderkeg is an institution, known by locals as “The Keg.” Keeping the vibes alive for Ruapehu skiiers, it’s a great place to warm up after a day’s skiing, grabbing a toasty drink and a bite to eat.
