One of the most popular requests at this crispy time of the year are luxury lodges with private steamy hot tubs to indulge in after a day of exploring or adventuring or doing nothing at all! In no particular order are some of the most spectacular hot tub experiences in New Zealand (or those that meet the definition of).
Whilst not technically a hot tub this copper bath at Mahu Whenua is more than deserving of the title where guests of the master suite can choose
from this or the actual hot tub under the stars outdoors and conveniently located beside a roaring outdoor fireplace, fluffy towels, knee rugs and of course butler service on call.
There is nothing like admiring the snow from a distance in a natural mineral water hot tub set filled from the waterfall tumbling down behind the lodge. Each suite at Minaret Station has its own deep tub set within the private outdoor deck. Imagine being immersed in the contrast of the darkest of dark winter nights that bring to life millions of stars that reflect off the snowy mountains.
Also completely off the grid and at the opposite end of the South Island with a very green forest visit is the inground hot tub on the fringe of the Abel Tasman National Park and reserved exclusively for guests of the architectural wonder piece; Falcon Brae cantilevered out over a cliff above Stonefly Lodge.
The construction this particular hot tub involved much sitting in the empty tub during construction to ensure the final soaking level was perfecting in line with the magnificent vista once immersed in the water.
It is a tough choice at Hapuku Lodge and Treehouses between the tempting outdoor spa where you can watch the antics of the deer over the fence against a backdrop of the Kaikoura 'alps' or your very own enormous teacup bathtubs in the Treehouses. So private curtains are not necessary and located perfectly in the sun setting corners makes many a guest late for fireside canapes.
Hot tubs however are not the unique domain of the luxury lodges nestled in the alps of the South Island. Only in the centre of the North Island, can one take a dip in their own thermal 'hot tub' on the shores of Lake Tarawera. Best before breakfast and via boat from Solitaire Lodge there is no shortage of hot water with this incredible experience in these natural spas.
Nearby with under an umbrella of native Punga ferns is the very indulgent outdoor wooden hot tub at Treetops Estate, the perfect complement to the dedicated health spa and sauna inspiring guests to relax and retreat.
In complete contrast directly beside the sea is the open-air bath come hot tub (banner image) at Annandale's remote and romantic Seascape carefully situated with a glimpse of the Pacific Ocean and beneath the southern night sky is perfected curated wrapped in a setting of natural stone and timber. Totally exclusive where farmland meets the ocean accessible by 4WD or helicopter, the ultimate retreat. Those that are fortunate to live in Christchurch can take themselves over the hill for the ultimate "luxury for locals" stay cay at Annandale.
And finally set on the edges of an infinity lawn at is this rustic hot tub in a breath-taking scene of Lake Te Anau the mountains of the National Park at Fiordland Lodge. Simple pleasures.
For availability, rates and to reserve an exclusive winter offers and experiences available at these Luxury Lodges simply use the booking bar
Choose a Stay 3 Nights / Pay 2 this Winter & Spring at participating Luxury Lodges