Luxury Holidays in Queenstown: What Puts This Destination on the World Stage
Queenstown’s Global Recognition
Queenstown has once again claimed the spotlight – this time recognised by Condé Nast Traveller as one of the Pacific’s best luxury destinations. It’s a fitting accolade, with its jaw-dropping alpine beauty, world-class lodges, and perfect blend of adventure, scenery and indulgence.
At Splendid South, we design luxury holidays in Queenstown that capture this same balance. Whether you seek a private villa overlooking Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables, or a tailored adventure that pairs heli-skiing with wine tastings, shopping and restaurants, our itineraries reveal the very best of New Zealand’s South Island.
Why Queenstown deserves its luxury status
What makes Queenstown stand apart isn’t just its scenery, it’s the sense of possibility. Within a single day you can stroll through vineyards, soar above glaciers, enjoy a boat trip and dine beside an open fire overlooking the lake.
Luxury here isn’t loud. It’s thoughtful. A private chef preparing a seasonal tasting menu. A driver waiting after a day in the mountains. A villa that feels entirely your own.
It’s this quiet sophistication that earned Queenstown its place among the Pacific’s finest destinations, and it’s what keeps discerning travellers returning year after year.
Where to stay: Queenstown’s finest luxury lodges & villas
Queenstown’s accommodation scene reads like a wish list of bucket-list stays. A few of our favourites include:
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Matakauri Lodge – A lakeside sanctuary where contemporary design meets warm New Zealand hospitality. Perfect for couples seeking privacy and panoramic views.
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Eichardt’s Private Hotel – Set on the lakefront in the heart of town, this boutique icon pairs historic charm with impeccable service.
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Blanket Bay Luxury Lodge – Just outside Glenorchy, this alpine retreat offers seclusion, elegance and access to some of the South Island’s most dramatic landscapes.
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Luxury Private Villas – For those seeking complete privacy and architectural elegance near Queenstown, Hawks Nest delivers a rare combination of refined design, resort‑like amenities and unrivalled views. Set just minutes from Lake Wakatipu, this five‑bedroom residence sleeps up to 12 and offers a wellness suite, ski gear room, hot‑tub deck and full chef‑grade kitchen. Ideal for families, friends or executive groups arriving from Singapore, Australia or the US who demand the best.
We can recommend the best luxury lodge or private luxury villa for you stay. We have several others not listed here. Each property offers something distinctive, and our team can help match the right lodge or villa to your style of travel.
Experiences worth travelling for
From the air, the mountains around Queenstown look endless. From the ground, the possibilities are.
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Private heli-picnics on remote alpine plateaus.
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Chauffeured wine journeys through Gibbston Valley.
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Exclusive lake cruises to luxury farm experiences, combining views, and meals from farm grown produce.
- Scenic luxury one day tour to Milford Sound – The best of luxury drive, awe-inspiring boat cruise and scenic flight back to Queenstown. We highly recommend incorporating a one day Milford Sound experience into your luxury Queenstown vacation.
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Wellness retreats, spas and onsen pool luxury spa escapes with pure mountain air.
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Tailored ski experiences, complete with premium gear hire and private transfers.
Every journey is personally designed for you, whether you’re flying in from Sydney, Singapore, San Francisco or beyond, we consider your arrival times, departure and need for relaxation into your itinerary so it feels seamless, personal and distinctly New Zealand.
Planning Your Luxury Queenstown Holiday
Inspired by Condé Nast Traveller’s recognition? Let us show you Queenstown at its most exceptional. From airport arrivals to private mountain transfers, our team handles every detail so you can simply arrive and unwind.