Just Back From: The British Virgin Islands and Antigua
Two boutique islands. Two unforgettable stays. Discover my latest Caribbean escape to Peter Island in
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Step into my recent adventure through New Zealand’s breathtaking South Island. Think luxury stays, stunning
landscapes, and unforgettable experiences. Ready to plan your own?
There’s something about arriving in New Zealand that immediately grounds you. From the moment you land, it’s clear that life moves at a different rhythm. People take the time to breathe deeply, to notice their surroundings, and to savour the moment. That’s exactly how I felt when I touched down in Christchurch at the start of my South Island journey.
This blog is a reflection of that unforgettable trip. A route through dramatic mountain ranges, still lakes, and skies so clear they beg for stargazing. If New Zealand is on your radar, this might be the gentle nudge you need.
South Island has a beauty that doesn’t just meet the eye; it stays with you. The air feels fresh and energising, the landscapes are untouched, and the people are friendly in the most genuine way. What struck me most was how deeply New Zealanders value their environment. From eco-friendly lodges to local guides who speak passionately about conservation, this is a place where sustainability is more than just a trend. It’s part of the culture.
Whether you arrive in Christchurch, Queenstown, or somewhere quieter in between, the South Island surrounds you with nature in its rawest form. There are glacial lakes, rugged mountains, endless vineyards, and lush valleys. It’s a place that makes you slow down and simply take it all in.
On the drive from Christchurch to Mount Cook, we detoured through Arthur’s Pass, about two hours from Christchurch. It’s a scenic route through rolling hills and sleepy villages. We made a delicious pitstop in Sheffield, known for its world-famous pies. And yes, they lived up to the name. Another memorable stop was Longhill Station, a 9,000-acre private high-country farm. The owners, Kate and Duncan, welcomed us warmly and gave us a real taste of high-country hospitality; authentic, generous, and deeply rooted in the land.
Not far from there, we discovered Geraldine, a charming village that’s well worth a stop or even an overnight stay. While I didn’t stay at The Vicarage, I met the lovely owner who welcomed us with a scone at Barkers of Geraldine, a brilliant breakfast and lunch spot right next door. The entire place had a warm, local vibe, with small boutiques and even the Humdinger Gin Distillery for those who love their craft spirits.
Our first night in Christchurch was spent at The George Hotel, a boutique property across from the peaceful Hagley Park. The following night, we moved to The Observatory Hotel, where old-world charm met modern luxury in a beautiful, character-filled setting.
Next stop was Mount Cook Lakeside Retreat, nestled on the shores of Lake Pukaki. Our villa, Ashley Mackenzie, offered uninterrupted views of Mount Cook, and waking up to the sun rising over those snow-dusted peaks was pure magic. The villa featured a hot tub, perfect for stargazing, as well as a private sauna, massage room, and gym. It felt indulgent and remote in all the right ways.
In Wanaka, we stayed at The Edgewater, a contemporary lakeside resort near the iconic ‘That Wanaka Tree’. Our premium two-bedroom apartment was filled with natural light, and the views made it hard to leave the room in the morning.
The final stop was Queenstown, where we stayed at The Rees Hotel. Located just outside the town centre, it offered tranquil lakefront views and a calm, luxurious atmosphere. A complimentary shuttle made popping into town easy, but retreating to our one-bedroom lake-view apartment each evening was a highlight in itself.
South Island is a dream for food lovers. In Christchurch, we joined a progressive walking food tour, which led us through several local restaurants. Each stop offered a taste of the city’s culinary creativity.
In Queenstown, we couldn’t skip the legendary Fergburger, and yes, it is that good. For a more refined experience, dinner at Rosewood Matakauri delivered both in terms of flavour and panoramic lake views.
At Mount Cook Lakeside Retreat, we enjoyed a six-course tasting menu. Each dish celebrated local produce and creative techniques, paired with regional wines. The setting, framed by alpine beauty, made it even more memorable. During a day trip to The Lindis, lunch overlooking the Ahuriri Valley was equally unforgettable. The combination of fresh flavours and dramatic scenery was something I’ll always remember.
This trip was filled with pinch-me moments, each one shaped by the spectacular natural setting. A few standout experiences included:
You can’t visit New Zealand without feeling the presence of Māori culture. Throughout our travels, we learned about their traditions, their language, and their deep spiritual connection to the land. It added a beautiful depth to the experience, enriching every encounter with meaning and respect.
New Zealand rewards those who travel at a leisurely pace. It’s not a place to rush through. For this trip, I focused only on South Island, and a self-driving itinerary worked perfectly. Every road offered a scenic surprise, from snow-dusted peaks to shimmering lakes.
If you’re planning your adventure, I’d recommend at least two weeks for South Island alone. To explore both islands thoroughly, allow three to four weeks. The distances between destinations can be longer than they appear on the map, so allow time to unwind and truly appreciate the landscape. My trip was just ten days and business-focused, so it flew by, but even that brief glimpse left a lasting impression.
One of the most powerful moments came when we landed on the Tasman Glacier. The silence up there wasn’t just quiet; it was profound. It was complete. No wind, no voices, no sound at all, just crisp air and endless snow stretching out to jagged peaks. It felt like we were standing at the edge of the world. On the return, the helicopter flight over Mount Cook offered jaw-dropping views that sealed the memory.
This South Island adventure suits a wide range of travellers. It’s ideal for couples and honeymooners seeking romance and solitude, but equally perfect for families who love the outdoors. Adventurers will have plenty to dive into, while food and wine lovers will be in their element. The mix of luxury, nature, and authentic experiences makes this destination truly versatile.
Inspired by my journey through New Zealand’s unforgettable South Island? I’d love to help you plan your bespoke adventure. Whether it’s glacier landings, boutique lodges, scenic drives or something unique, let’s design the perfect itinerary to match your style.
Two boutique islands. Two unforgettable stays. Discover my latest Caribbean escape to Peter Island in
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