3 Best Hotels in Upper South Island and the West Coast, New Zealand

A contemporary luxury waterfront lodge built to complement the surrounding native bush and seascape, the property's spacious suites and apartments are built into the hillside. Cuisine, featuring the best local produce, is served in the stylish Foredeck Restaurant and Kumatage Lounge or the casual Bight Café on the jetty. Getting there is part of the treat: you can catch a water taxi from Picton, helicopter in, or walk in on the Queen Charlotte Track (the Lodge is a two-hour detour). Dolphin and bird-watching cruises, bushwalks, kayaking, and fishing charters are all at your door. Booking options include a bed-and-breakfast option, or a dinner, bed, and breakfast. 

The cozy wood walls and simple furnishings of the guest quarters are part of the philosophy here: Kimi Ora means "seek health" in Māori, and this aims to be an environmentally friendly, health-oriented resort. There's a vegetarian restaurant (not always open, so call first), and activities and therapies are geared to holistic health. For all the pampering, the overall vibe is low-key. Day visitors are welcome for therapies, including spa, steam room, and pool facilities.

This premium Kiwi holiday park just steps from the center of town has top facilities and hosts. There's the typical range of accommodations, from tent sites and powered campervan sites to cabins with shared bathrooms and fully equipped apartments with en suite bathrooms, kitchens, and dining areas. Booking ahead is recommended in the busy summer season.