The wonders of New Zealand’s North Island offer a treat for every kind of traveler. From the hot springs of Rotorua to the skyscrapers of Auckland to the boundless ocean views of the Bay of Islands, the magic knows no limits.
Staying in a five-star hotel solidifies the experience and makes any trip here truly enchanting, so today I’m rounding up the best luxury hotels in the North Island.
There are several fantastic mid-range and budget options in the area, but if you’re looking to splurge, these are the hotels and lodges that will treat you like royalty.
The 16 Best Hotels On New Zealand’s North Island
1. Parehua Resort, Martinborough
A country estate in wine country
Martinborough is one of the North Island’s best wine-growing regions, and if you’re imagining a trip spent sipping wine and wandering around vineyards, Parehua Resort is a great choice.
The five-star treatment is evident from the royal-like gardens to the mesmerizing views to the carefully designed guestrooms, which feature artwork from local artists.
There’s an outdoor pool available in summer, a private lake with its own pier, and the charming York Bistro, which has a cozy log fireplace for cold winter days.
2. Lakeview Lodge Karapiro, Cambridge
Lavish lodges with a mountain backdrop
Nothing says luxury like lake and mountain views. The aptly named Lakeview Lodge offers a set of spacious lodges with their own kitchens, dining areas, and outdoor entertaining areas.
Along with the sublime vistas, the lodge boasts a prime location between Cambrdige, Hobbiton, Waitomo Caves, and Rotorua. The staff can help you plan a full itinerary that showcases the best of the region, visiting all the nearby highlights.
3. The French Country House, Tauranga
A romantic piece of Europe on the North Island
At first glance, you’ll think you’ve entered a French chateau. But The French Country House still offers an authentic New Zealand experience just half an hour from Papamoa Beach and Tauranga Airport.
The European-inspired lodging, which is perfect for honeymooners, is the ultimate romantic getaway. Here you’ll find hand-planted gardens, quiet balconies, ocean views, and a stable of horses.
There’s a library in the guesthouse, along with a communal lounge area, all furnished with classic decor that will make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
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4. River Birches, Turangi
A refined luxury lodge on the river banks
As the name suggests, River Birches delivers an unrivaled river escape. Though the lodge is a short distance from a range of popular attractions, including the trout fishing pools, it feels quiet and secluded, offering guests the chance to really let their hair down amongst the tranquility.
Straddling the Tongariro River, the lodge features private guest rooms complete with their own decks, ensuite bathrooms, and garden views. The lounge area has an open fireplace, and lodge guests are welcome to a full-cooked breakfast every morning.
5. Lake Taupo Lodge, Taupo
A relaxing lodge with lake views and a private chef
Come to Lake Taupo Lodge and you’ll be treated like royalty. Just two minutes from the lake and less than 10 from the Taupo town center, the lodge offers luxurious guest rooms with their own patio. Some have special amenities, like spa baths and fireplaces.
Guests will enjoy a complimentary full breakfast prepared by a professional chef every morning and can spend time reading in the shared library or socializing at the on-site bar.
If you’re hoping to get some work or study done during your stay, the rooms also come complete with a desk and lounge area.
6. Solitaire Lodge, Lake Tarawera
Spacious suited on a private peninsula
Just a 20-minute drive from the literal hotspot town of Rotorua, Solitaire Lodge delivers a true five-star experience. The property lies on a private peninsula by Lake Tarawera and has its own helipad–useful for those helicopter tours that the staff can book for you.
The lodge features an on-site restaurant serving seasonal local produce and wine, while the suites boast magnificent views of either the lake, the lagoon, or Mount Tarawera.
There’s plenty to do nearby, from the Buried Village to Whakarewarewa Forest.
7. Delamore Lodge, Oneroa
An island lodge with sweeping vistas of the Hauraki Gulf
An exclusive lodge where you can escape from your life, Delamore Lodge gives guests world-class vistas over the Hauraki Gulf. Every suite on the property has floor-to-ceiling windows so that guests can enjoy the spectacular views, along with their own private patio.
With your stay, you’ll get a free gourmet breakfast every morning, free Wi-Fi access, and complimentary transfers from the Matiatia ferry terminal, which is where you can come and go from Auckland.
There are day spa treatments available at the lodge, along with a tropical-style pool, a spa pool, and a sauna.
8. Park Hyatt Auckland
A luxurious city-stay in bustling Auckland
While there are endless beautiful rural lodges in the North Island, there’s also nothing quite like staying amidst the hustle and bustle of Auckland. One of the best five-star hotels in the capital is the Park Hyatt.
It has all the trimmings that you’d expect from a five-star city hotel, including an outdoor pool and fitness center, a garden, a restaurant, and a concierge service. The rooms come complete with a range of amenities, from cable TV to free toiletries.
The hotel is close to Auckland landmarks like Viaduct Harbour and Sky Tower, and there’s also a 24-hour front desk with staff that are fluent in Mandarin, German, and Spanish.
9. The Hotel Britomart, Auckland
Centrally located Auckland hotel with five-star service
A close distance to Auckland’s Viaduct Harbour, the Hotel Britomart is another five-star gem in New Zealand’s capital city. This is a great choice if you plan on visiting the Auckland Art Gallery, or SKYCITY, as these and other city highlights are located nearby.
There’s free Wi-Fi at the property, along with free bikes for rent, room service, and a 24-hour front desk. For an extra charge, you can also have private parking, so you may want to consider the Hotel Britomart if you’re driving through Auckland.
10. Te Karaka Lodge, Port Waikato
A lavish farm stay with mountain views
Imagine a glamorous farm stay in a stunning region. Te Karaka Lodge offers endless opportunities for outdoor recreation, from sightseeing tours to hiking. You’ll also find a private beach and outdoor swimming pool on the grounds.
While there’s lots going on at the farm, all the units are soundproof to ensure the total relaxation of guests.
You’ll never go hungry at the lodge, which serves a buffet and continental breakfast every morning, along with packed lunches and a snack bar.
11. The Manse, Maraekakaho
A family-friendly luxury lodge with on-site activities
Just 15 minutes from Hastings, The Manse gives guests the chance to experience a remote, tranquil escape on the North Island.
This is another gem for those planning an action-packed outdoor trip, since fly fishing and jet boating are available on the Ngaruroro River nearby, and the property has a 24-hour tour desk.
There’s a library and games room at The Manse, offering guests some traditional recreation opportunities, along with scenic gardens, an outdoor pool, and a barbecue area.
The guestrooms feature high-end bed linens, cable TV, and in some cases, picturesque views of the mountains or river.
12. Hotel Fitzroy curated by Fable, Auckland
A boutique villa in Auckland
Hotel Fitzroy curated by Fable is located in busy Auckland, but it’s full of old-world character. The boutique villa features two stories of guest rooms, each with complimentary mini-bar options, coffee, and tea.
Every morning, guests will be welcome to a continental breakfast, along with hors d’oeuvres and drinks, which will be served in the library.
Due to its location, this is a good hotel to stay at if you’re interested in exploring Aotea Square or Ponsonby Street.
13. Hana Lodge, Rotorua
Five-star luxury in Rotorua
In the exciting town of Rotorua, known for its hot springs, Hana Lodge offers five-star accommodation to base yourself in as you explore the world-famous surroundings.
The lodge boasts an outdoor swimming pool, garden, and terrace, along with an on-site restaurant and bar. Tennis and billiards are available too!
14. The Flying Trout Boutique Lodge, Taupo
Elegant spacious suites 10 minutes from Huka Falls
The Flying Trout Boutique Lodge lies in Taupo, just 10 minutes from Huka Falls and 35 from the Orakei Korako Geothermal Park & Cave.
The luxurious lodge offers a high-end yet community ambiance, coming complete with a games room, shared lounge, and sun terrace. If you prefer to lay low, though, you could opt for a room with its own balcony, spa bath, and views of the nearby mountains and lake.
Complimentary breakfast is served every morning, and all guests have access to free Wi-Fi.
15. Night Sky Cottage, Ohakune
A premium chalet with unrivaled views
If it’s true tranquility and solitude you seek, the Night Sky Cottage will be the answer to your dreams. The cottage is nestled in the stunning Manawatu region, surrounded by greenery that will make you feel completely secure and hidden away, in the best way possible.
There are barbecue and full English/Irish breakfast options available at the cottage, along with a kitchen, washing machine, living, and dining room.
16. On The Point – Lake Rotorua, Rotorua
A high-end retreat set on Lake Rotorua
With vistas of Mokoia Island, a fine-dining restaurant, and a high-end day spa, On The Point – Lake Rotorua is the retreat you’ve been waiting for. Just 15 minutes from Whakarewarewa Thermal Village, it’s the perfect base for exploring Rotorua.
There’s a fitness center on the grounds, a lounge with an open fire, along with under-floor heating, and lake views. Between the attractions of Rotorua being just minutes away, and the luxuries of the retreat, you’ll want to stay forever.
FAQs About Hotels in the North Island
