The Most Incredible Mountain Lodges In New Zealand

New Zealand is filled with scenic wonders, so it’s no surprise that there are some terrific accommodation options in the mountains. Choose a hilltop near Queenstown overlooking Lake Wakatipu, or the alpine Minaret Station in Wanaka that’s accessible only by helicopter. Here’s our guide to the most incredible mountain lodges in New Zealand – bookable on Culture Trip.

Eagles Nest, Russell

Set atop a private ridgeline near the historic town of Russell, the luxurious Eagles Nest offers some of the nicest coastal views you’ll find in the underrated Bay of Islands region. Five contemporary villas, each with their own special elegance and flair, invite guests to unwind and embrace the spectacular landscapes all around. The minimalist Rahimoana is the retreat’s top contender — all four of its suites are fitted with granite balconies that provide a jaw-dropping, front-seat glimpse of the sunset.

Azur Lodge, Queenstown

Wharekauhau, Wairarapa

A 90-minute drive from Wellington to the Rimutaka Hills will lead you to the serene Wharekauhau Luxury Country Estate. The Edwardian-style lodge brings a sense of grandeur to an intimate farm setting. Explore the farms, gardens, orchards and native forests as you soak up the surrounding valley vistas. Each room is lined with timeless antique furnishings, and the formal dining area invites all guests to relish some home-style cooking made with locally sourced ingredients.

Minaret Station, Wanaka

Sky-high and proud, the alpine Minaret Station is Wanaka’s best kept secret. Seriously — the only way to access this splendid mountain lodge is to take a helicopter ride up the Southern Alps. Each of the stylish, high country chalets are positioned over the alpine grasslands, making its guests fully experience the area’s mountainous beauty. On those nippy winter days, you either can cozy up on your own private in-deck hot tub, or you can head over to the large log-burning fireplace by the communal living area and kitchen.

Otahuna Lodge, Christchurch

Propped against the pastures of a fluted volcano, the Victorian-style Otahuna Lodge has an unbeatable timelessness to it. Built in 1895 by Sir Heaton Rhodes, the place is filled with local history and finesse. Manicured gardens surround its seven suites, all of which have a special character of their own. New Zealand artworks, spacious bathrooms and plentiful mountain views are common features among each room. The estate’s kitchen has a five-course degustation menu for keen fine diners, and personalised breakfasts are part of the deal too.

Acacia Cliffs, Taupo

Since opening its doors in 2008, Acacia Cliffs has wowed visitors from the world over with its modern design, stunning lake and mountain views, and welcoming family vibes. Guests can choose to retreat in the privacy of one of four beautiful rooms, designed by New Zealand architect Kelvin Peck, or to wine and dine with the company of the owners and other visitors. Rick and Linda Whitlock are your hosts, and they’re quite hands-on about all things hospitality. Not only will the duo help all guests make the most of Taupo’s attractions, but Rick is also willing and able to share his passion for local cuisine (in fact, he’s the one who cooks all the lodge’s meals).

Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips, compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.