New Zealand has added yet another accolade to its overflowing stash of international plaudits, bagging the top spot in two categories in the World Travel Awards…
This country seems to be able to do no wrong- scooping award after award for its clean air, wholesome outdoorsy lifestyle and stunning scenery.
Being described as a utopia on a daily basis must pile the pressure on. If anyone has ever watched that slightly obscure comedy show ‘Flight of the Concordes’ they will have seen the poster in the background on the opening credits. ‘New Zealand’ – don’t expect too much and you’ll love it.’
Whether this is true or just a tagline dreamt up by a bunch of proud kiwis who don’t want their country invaded by swarms of tourists is something I can’t answer. But surely all these awards and the millions who voted for them can’t be wrong? There must be something about this place.
The country’s latest triumph is based on the results of more than 32,000 questionnaires submitted by readers of Condé Nast Traveler Magazine. Results are based on the quality of activities, facilities, food and dining, overall design, rooms and service.
First up was Takaro Lodge in Te Anau on New Zealand’s South Island, which nabbed the country’s leading spa resort title. Also known as Takaro Peace Resort, this exclusive luxury spa resort is on a 2000 acre private estate that formed one of the film locations in Lord of the Rings.
Its 10 ‘element’ apartments are decorated according to the five Chinese elements – wood, fire, earth, metal and water – designed to calm guests, improve mood and strengthen energy levels.
Lake Okareka Lodge in Rotarua on New Zealand’s North Island won the country’s leading luxury lodge. Nestled on a secluded peninsula, Lake Okareka Lodge has private sandy beaches and beautiful gardens.
The Lodge pipped luxury hotel retreat, Solitaire Lodge (which last year was voted the best resort in the whole of Australasia) to the finishing post.
Martinborough’s Wharekauhau Country Estate (set on a 5,000 acre working sheep station in the Martinborough wine-growing region of the southern North Island) and Rotorua’s Treetops Lodge and Wilderness Experience also gained international honours in the Condé Nast (USA) Traveler Readers Choice Awards 2008.
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