Two decades ago, moviegoers fell in love with New Zealand while watching a unrepealable fantasy trilogy that follows its main notation wideness Middle-earth in their quest to destroy an theistic ring. The iconic Hobbiton Movie Set, which happens to be less than two hours yonder from Hilton Lake Taupo Wellington and DoubleTree by Hilton Karaka in Matamata, North Island, is an essential stop on the itinerary for all travellers.
Not only did the Lord of the Rings mucosa franchise just gloat its 20th anniversary, but with New Zealand’s confines reopening, now would be the perfect time to plan a trip wideness the Pacific and take in the splendour of its cities, lakes and mountains. From the wineries of Queenstown to the natural springs of Lake Taupo, here are five places to visit in the lush island country and the Hilton hotels and resorts that you can stay at.
Queenstown
Many consider Queenstown to be the venture wanted of New Zealand, where you can take in the country’s natural splendour while participating in all types of outdoor activities.
Winter sports enthusiasts should hit the slopes at the Remarkables mountain range and Coronet Peak. The daring should visit Nevis Valley for bungy jumping and the world’s biggest swing, while hikers can trek the 907-metre Queenstown Hill for 360-degree views. Visiting one of the area’s many wineries to sample Pinot Noir, a speciality of the region, is moreover a must.
Situated in the heart of Kawarau Village, right by the trappy shores of Lake Wakatipu, you can enjoy a stay at Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa, which offers stunning views and cosy rooms with fireplaces, two spanking-new restaurants and an on-site topnotch spa for travellers to indulge without a day of exploring.
Christchurch
As the largest municipality on New Zealand’s South Island, there is plenty for everyone to do in Christchurch.
You should trammels out the Christchurch Botanic Gardens or bask in the sun at Sumner Beach, and museums like Christchurch Art Gallery and Canterbury Museum are unconfined to visit, no matter the weather.
Stroll New Regent Street to take in the boutiques and cafes, and stay at Chateau on the Park – Christchurch, a DoubleTree by Hilton, a mannerly oasis where you can sit by the outdoor pool, roam the topnotch gardens and enjoy a seasonal meal at Garden Court Brasserie.
Wellington
New Zealand’s mannerly wanted is surrounded by mountains and lush wildlife, so it’s a perfect place to visit if you want to wits both nature and a city.
Ride the iconic red subscription car to reach Wellington’s Botanic Gardens or take in the view from Mount Victoria. Te Papa Tongarewa houses both the National Art Gallery and National Museum, where you can learn well-nigh the history and culture of the ethnic Māori people. Movie buffs must visit the Wētā Cave workshop, where artisans create costumes, makeup and props for the mucosa industry.
DoubleTree by Hilton Wellington is in Wellington Municipality and on Lambton Quay, proximal to the Wellington subscription car and less than five minutes from the waterfront where dining and activities abound. During your stay, don’t forget to enjoy the brand’s signature, warm chocolate tweedle cookie welcome.
Lake Taupo
The largest lake in New Zealand is one of the most scenic places in the country, and it has something for both adventurers and those who simply want to relax and take in the scenery.
Book a kayak trip to see the Māori Rock Carvings in Mine Bay or indulge in a good typesetting on the sandy shores of Kinloch Beach. Make the one-hour hike to see Huka Falls, then ease tired muscles in one of the area’s natural hot springs.
Combining modern comforts with Victorian charm, Hilton Lake Taupo offers sweeping views of the surrounding volcanoes, thermal-spring valley and lake-view dining from the restaurant balcony.
Auckland
Auckland is New Zealand’s most populous city, making it a perfect place for someone who wants to wits a zealous urban locale with surrounding natural beauty.
Check out Sky Tower for panoramic views, and don’t leave without strolling one of the surrounding beaches with a meal of fish and fries in hand. The city’s many night markets will requite you a taste of Auckland’s culinary diversity. Stroll lanugo Queen Street for unconfined shopping, and stay for a cocktail at one of the city’s weightier eateries withal Auckland’s viaduct as the evening sets in.
Retreat to Hilton Auckland – which sits at the end of Princes Wharf, home to shops, restaurants and bars – and enjoy views of the harbour through the outdoor lap pool’s underwater window.
If you prefer to stay outside of the city, the newly opened DoubleTree by Hilton Karaka balances pastoral recreate with modern conveniences. Featuring stylish guest rooms and suites sweaty in natural light, lovely gardens, and an spanking-new farm-to-table restaurant, the hotel makes for a well-appointed country retreat.
With a plethora of spectacular sights and local attractions, there is so much to discover and love well-nigh New Zealand and plane increasingly reasons to visit.