Hence, it’s no surprise the country has become a favorite travel destination for adventurers and luxury travelers.
Visitors have an amazing playground to explore – from snow-capped mountains, rolling green hills, unique Maori culture, great wine, and of course, hobbit houses – it’s a country where you can satisfy your desire to relax or go on a unique adventure.
If you find yourself here, we’ve gathered the best hotels and resorts in New Zealand you can book using points.
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1. Eichardt’s Private Hotel
Eichardt’s Private Hotel. Image Credit: Eichardt’s Private Hotel
One a hub for miners during the 1860s gold rush, Eichardt’s Private Hotel is now a stunning resort that welcomes guests from all over the world. This boutique resort hotel is even considered among the best Small Luxury Hotels of the World you can book with points.
Eichardt’s is found off Marine Parade in Queenstown, a stunning, quaint area that still retains its charm from 150 years ago. The hotel overlooks Lake Wakatipu with Central Queenstown, just behind the hotel. Meanwhile, just 7-minute away is the gondola station for Bob’s Peak – making this the perfect hotel for skiers.
The hotel features different types of accommodations, from private residences, lakeside apartments, a penthouse, and of course, the suites. Entry-level suites include everything you need to stay comfy. Rooms offer a view of Lake Wakatipu with a king bed and a signature throw draped in front of the fireplace.
Bathrooms are elegant with Molton Brown products, a heated mirror, and a deluxe minibar. Plus, there’s a walk-in dressing room and underfloor heating throughout so you’ll never step inside cold floors again.
For facilities, it’s limited because of the hotel size. There’s a parlor with a club lounge and DVD library. However, you won’t have to go far to enjoy activities. The Queenstown Gym is a 3-minute walk away while there’s also dining, bars, restaurants, and shops in the main town.
Dining is offered at The Grille while breakfast is served à la carte at Eichardt’s bar. It’s a stunning place for exquisite meals on elegant Victorian furniture and intimate space.
Eichardt’s Private Hotel is a Category 8 SLH Hyatt property which means you can book a night here for 35,000 points on off-peak dates; 40,000 points on standard dates; and 45,000 points on peak dates.
On the other hand, if you opt for a paid booking, the low season rate is $900 while the peak season rate is $1,300 per night. As for the average season rate, it’s $1,000 per night.
2. Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa
Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa, New Zealand. Image Credit: Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa
Modern and stylish, the Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa echoes a luxurious Alpine vibe. It sits on the shores of Lake Wakatipu right at Kawarau Village. Access to the main town of Queenstown is via a one-way bridge so it can be tricky to get to town during traffic hours.
However, there is an upside. The resort is close to ski slopes, so it’s a fantastic hub for anyone wanting to do some skiing on their visit.
All 187 rooms are done in a contemporary style, which means they are airy, comfortable, and spacious. Underfoot are cream-colored carpets with dark-colored accent walls. Part of the room contains a king bed while another is a living area with sofas. There’s also a desk, a minibar, and a balcony.
For the bathrooms, these are chic but kept simple. There’s a glass-covered shower on one side, a large bathtub on another, and twin sinks.
Wakatipu Grill is the main restaurant to enjoy a delicious breakfast. There’s a buffet but you can order from the à la carte menu. For casual dining, Stacks Pub is the way to go. Me and Mee is a place where you can sip a soup of ramen and other Asian dishes. If you fancy wine, visit Cru Wine Bar and Lounge for tapas and wines.
For amenities, Eforea Spa is a must-try at the hotel. It contains several rooms as well as an expansive treatment menu. There’s also an indoor heated lap pool, a solarium, a large deck, and a fitness center.
A shuttle to Queenstown runs like clockwork if you need to visit the town. There’s also a meeting and event room.
To sum up, the Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa is a gorgeous place to visit. Book a free night here by using 40,000 to 60,000 Hilton Honors points. On the other hand, pay $120 per night during the low season for a standard room or $630 in the peak season. Meanwhile, the average season rate is $380 per night.
Book luxury travel for free using only points! Learn how to take advantage of those accumulated points at The Points University.
3. Park Hyatt Auckland
Park Hyatt Auckland. Image Credit: Park Hyatt Auckland
Park Hyatt Auckland is the first of its kind in New Zealand. It’s the first Park Hyatt property in the country and it’s setting the bar high.
Set on the waterfront location of Auckland’s Wynyard Quarter, it opened in September 2020, with all of the glamour and luxury you’d expect from a 5-star hotel. Match all that with the mesmerizing view of the city skyline and harbor, and you’ve got a stunning home away from home at a short distance from the CBD.
Fitted with 195 rooms, entry-level spaces start at 505 square feet. These include large, comfortable king beds, colorful rugs, along with touches of red and white tukutuku panels. Motorized windows also swing open to give you a view outside.
All of the bathrooms are decorated in white marble with big vanities fitted with two sinks. There’s a standalone egg-shaped tub and rainfall showerheads. For toiletries, guests are treated to products from upscale French brand, Le Labo.
You’ll never go hungry here. There are four restaurants on the property. This includes the flagship, Onemata, which features an open kitchen and harbor views. The Living Room has a more relaxed atmosphere, with fireplaces and couches. Other places to dine include The Pantry and the Captain’s Bar.
For amenities, there’s a 25-meter infinity pool along with a separate Himalayan salt sauna. There’s also a steam room and hydrotherapy area. A 24-hour gym is open daily. While outside, you get a host of attractions like the ASB Waterfront Theatre including bars, restaurants, and shops within a few minutes’ walk away.
The Park Hyatt Auckland is a Category 5 World of Hyatt hotel. So, if you want to redeem a free night here, just exchange 17,000 points on off-peak dates; 20,000 points on standard dates; and 23,000 points on peak dates.
Alternatively, for a paid booking, the cash rate is $300 in the low season while $470 per night in the peak season. During the average season, it costs $360 per night.
Having trouble figuring out how to use your points? Talk to a points consultant! They can help you learn the basics of travel hacking to get luxury flights and hotels.
4. Hilton Auckland
Hilton Auckland. Image Credit: Hilton Auckland
Hilton Auckland is one of the few awards hotels available in New Zealand. Found at the Princes Wharf waterfront. This area used to be a commercial fishing wharf in the 20s. But, over time, it has been transformed into a mixed-use area for cruise ships and modern developments.
Nearby, you’ll find a host of attractions within walking distance. There’s the New Zealand Maritime Museum at a 5-minute walk, the downtown Ferry Terminal at 7-minutes, and the beautiful Sky Tower in just 15-minutes.
With a boat-inspired architecture, you can expect modern clean lines and nautical elements incorporated in the design. The rooms are fresh and of a good size. There’s a comfy bed in white linens with unique rope artwork on the walls. Meanwhile, windows provide lots of natural light and a view of the harbor outside.
The bathroom is spacious with a separate shower area and soaking tub. When it comes to the toiletries, Hilton provides guests with Crabtree and Evelyn products.
If you’re angling for some grub, the Hilton has a daily breakfast buffet that includes an egg station so you can order eggs just the way you like them. À la carte dishes are available at the primary restaurant called FISH. If you’re there on the weekend, you can opt to try out the High Tea experience.
On the other hand, if you’re after hotel amenities, you can find a lot here. There’s an outdoor lap pool, a large gym with a good selection of equipment, valet parking and self-parking options, and event spaces.
Stay at the Hilton Auckland for free by redeeming 49,000 to 60,000 Hilton Honors points for a standard room per night.
However, if you’re paying cash, the low season rate is $200 per night while the peak season rate is $470 per night. Meanwhile, the average season rate for a standard room is $280 per night.
Did you know that the Hilton Auckland has a secret glass-edged pool? Check out their swimming area, go underwater and check out the glass window that overlooks the harbor. It’s one of those secret window pools that no other hotels have!
5. Crowne Plaza Queenstown
Crowne Plaza Queenstown. Image Credit: Crowne Plaza Queenstown
Found inside New Zealand’s most popular holiday resort area, Queenstown, the Crowne Plaza Queenstown is a seven-story hotel perfect for holidaymakers and business travelers.
However, don’t expect this to be the typical drab hotel you’ve come to expect from the brand because it’s a lot more modern and stylish.
Located on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, most rooms get sweeping views over the lake as well as the stunning sights around. It’s also within seconds of the main street so if you want to explore the town, this is a prime spot.
All of the rooms are kept simple yet modern with all of the amenities you need. There’s a desk, a satellite TV, and seating areas. Large windows allow lots of natural light while the bathrooms are functional.
In the meantime, those looking for a dining spot can head to the hotel’s lobby restaurant, Threesixty. It’s perfect for wining and dining with awesome views of the lake. Make sure to try out the popular Central Otago Pinot Noir, at the bar or lounge area too.
There’s also a fitness center and storage area for skis and snow gear. It might be a downside for some that there’s no pool but it’s not a deal-breaker. Guests can also book meeting rooms and event spaces for rent.
Crowne Plaza Queenstown is a great hotel if you’re after one in a prime location. You can book this on award using 31,000 to 37,000 IHG Rewards Club points.
In the low season, you can book a standard room for $130 per night while in the peak season, the room costs $400 per night. The average season rate is $250 per night.
Find out the best travel credit cards to sign up for today! We’ve compiled the best ones that will give you the most value.
6. InterContinental Wellington
InterContinental Wellington. Image Credit: InterContinental Wellington
First built in 1990, the hotel was rebranded into the InterContinental in 2001. Along with the rebrand, the 9-story hotel was transformed into a stylish and convenient luxury space.
It offers amazing views of the Wellington Harbor and nearby are prime shopping spots like Featherton Street and Lampton Quay.
With a gold-decked facade, it’s hard to miss this stunning structure. The building occupies an entire city block and contains 236 guestrooms divided across different categories. Standard rooms feature plump king or twin beds. On the side, are large windows allowing a lot of light.
The’s a seating area, a desk, and a television mounted on the wall. Bathrooms are simple but contain all the necessary items you need like a shower area and some personal toiletries.
Enjoy afternoon High Tea at the Lobby Lounge. Even better, at night, it transforms into a great place for cocktails and drinks. A breakfast buffet is served for guests while the signature restaurant, Chameleon serves à la carte service with a selection of Merlot and Cabernet.
As for amenities, you can expect an indoor pool, a gym, and a spa.
InterContinental Wellington lets you book a stay on rewards using 33,000 to 46,000 IHG Rewards Club points. A standard room here costs $150 per night during the low season. Meanwhile, if you visit in peak months, the same room can cost $300 per night while in the average season, it’s about $220 per night.
7. Hilton Lake Taupo
Hilton Lake Taupo. Image Credit: Hilton Lake Taupo
The Hilton Lake Taupo is a majestic hotel located on a hilltop. It’s a short drive to the town center of Taupo, and nearby are some of the best attractions in the region. For instance, it’s just a few minutes away from Lake Taupo and Huka Falls.
Even better, it’s right next to Taupo De Bretts Hot Springs. Meanwhile, for hiking enthusiasts, it’s only a 5-minute drive to the base of Mt. Tauhara, where you can go up on a 2-hour hike.
There are two buildings for the hotel. The newer building contains several apartment-style rooms. Entry-level king rooms start at 322 square feet. Though a bit on the small side for resort-style hotels, it doesn’t feel cramped.
The rooms include a king bed with dark carpets and white walls. There’s a small coffee/tea station, a large wardrobe, and a sitting space.
Bathrooms contain a walk-in shower with a soaking tub. On the side is a vanity with twin sinks. Like most Hilton hotels, this one includes Crabtree & Evelyn bath products – an upgrade from the Peter Thomas Roth toiletries most Hilton branches carry.
As for amenities, there’s a swimming pool, hotel sauna, and a spa room. Guests who are there for skiing can also access a ski board drying room.
Complimentary breakfast is offered to Gold and Diamond members. However, for fine dining, Bistro Lago is the main restaurant at the hotel. They also have a great selection of wines to enjoy.
Hilton Lake Taupo is a resort-style hotel that’s perfect for relaxing. You can enjoy a night here by redeeming 34,000 to 50,000 Hilton Honors points per night.
On the other hand, if you opt for a cash booking, the low season rate per night is $177 for a standard room. During the peak season, the same room costs $310 per night while in the average season it’s $215 per night.
8. The George, Christchurch
The George. Image Credit: The George
The George has consistently been voted as among the best small hotels in New Zealand. A member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World, this charming hotel has a view of the Avon River and Hagley Park.
A 5-star luxury boutique hotel, it’s located right in Christchurch. While the building itself is a bit plain, don’t be fooled, because inside, you’ll find it is worlds away from what it looks like on the outside.
For one, it houses an impressive collection of New Zealand’s finest artworks from the likes of Bill Hammond and Ralph Hotere. It’s also close to the Botanic Gardens and Hagley’s Park offers a gorgeous expanse of trees and grassy areas, including a golf course and sports track.
All 53 rooms are luxurious and spacious. As for the decor, it’s kept muted but still chic. The room contains a soft king bed draped with cotton sheets. It’s paired with a pillow menu for absolute comfort. A large bow window with a chair and table overlooks the Avon.
In addition, there’s a coffee machine and a minibar stocked with Bollinger and New Zealand wines. Meanwhile, the bathroom comes with underfloor heating and includes only recycled containers for the toiletries to keep the hotel eco-conscious.
For food, Breakfast is served at 50Bistro while good coffee can be found at the lobby bar. Pescatore is the signature restaurant of the hotel. It’s also considered one of the best restaurants in Christchurch. On the menu are fresh ingredients sourced from local farms.
On the other hand, if you want to pair meals with the best wines, head to Sommelier Cashia Gumbo. As for amenities, there’s a gym and event space on offer.
The George is an SLH Hyatt property. So, if you want to redeem a rewards night here, you can exchange 12,000 points on off-peak dates; 15,000 points on standard dates; and 18,000 points on peak dates.
Meanwhile, if you opt for a cash booking, the standard room in the low season is $160 per night while the peak season rate is $230 per night. The average season rate is $200.
9. DoubleTree by Hilton Wellington
DoubleTree by Hilton Wellington. Image Credit: DoubleTree by Hilton Wellington
Like most of New Zealand, points hotels are limited in Wellington. One of the few that do accept points is DoubleTree by Hilton Wellington.
Found in the middle of the CBD, DoubleTree by Hilton Wellington comes with a strategic location. The hotel is found in the T&G Building, a historic building built in the 1920s.
This 4.5-star hotel features 7-stories with 106 rooms. Once inside, you can expect quintessential luxury, like something pulled from the 1920s then brought into the 21st century. Standard rooms carry a neutral shade with dark wood furniture accents.
Sleek, art deco furniture like a desk and chairs are off to the side while a large inviting bed is in the middle of the room. The bathrooms combine black and white tiled walls. Plus, there’s a stunning Victoria + Albert tub, a white marble sink, spacious glass-enclosed shower, and beautiful light fixtures.
Also, the hotel has a small gym with treadmills, cross trainers, and weights. There’s a boardroom and meeting room for event spaces too.
While the facilities inside the hotel are sparse, there is a beautiful restaurant – the Spring Kitchen – which is popular with the locals for dinner.
The restaurant serves unique fusion cuisine, combining Italian and Spanish meals with flavors of South East Asia. There’s also the 1928 Lounge and a breakfast buffet served by the hotel.
Book a free night here using your Hilton Honors points. You can redeem 30,000 to 40,000 points per night for a standard room. However, when doing a paid booking, the cash rate in the low season is $130 per night.
If you visit in the peak months, it costs $212 per night while the average season rate is $170.
10. DoubleTree by Hilton Queenstown
DoubleTree by Hilton Queenstown. Image Credit: DoubleTree by Hilton Queenstown
Made for a younger crowd, the DoubleTree by Hilton Queenstown features minimalist gardens, beautiful mountain and river views, and amazing little touches perfect for the style-conscious.
Go outside and you’ll find yourself surrounded by attractions like the Skyline Queenstown Gondola, a 16-minute drive away and the Jack’s Point Golf Course is only 9-minutes away. There’s also the Kelvin Heights Gold Course, which is 10-minutes away.
Standard rooms inside the DoubleTree are airy and filled with stylish furniture. A color palette of gray, white, and black decorates the room. Silky fabrics and furniture further add to the beauty of the room. There are also touches of plaid and knits all around.
A large window offers plenty of light with Lake Wakatipu and Remarkable Mountains as the view. To make it functional, there are mini kitchenettes filled with modern equipment to use.
Inside the bathrooms are beautiful gray and white damask patterned walls complemented by chrome fittings. There are a tub and shower combo with toiletries provided by Aroma Actives.
There are several options for dining including buffet breakfast, a casual cafe, a grill, and a Chinese restaurant. Moreover, there’s also a warm chocolate cookie to welcome you as you arrive. As for hotel facilities, there’s a business center, a gym, spa, and swimming pool.
You can book a rewards night at the DoubleTree by Hilton Queenstown by redeeming 49,000 to 50,000 points per night. As for cash bookings, the low season rate is $90 per night while in the peak season, it’s $350 per night. Meanwhile, the average season rate is $150 per night.
Wrapping Up
Visit New Zealand and explore one of the most beautiful countries in the world.
From beautiful hills, stunning lakes, and rich culture, you’ll find something to enjoy here.
Safe travels!