Destination Spotlight: New Zealand

Beautifully diverse, adventurous and welcoming, New Zealand is the adult playground of Asia Pacific. From the adrenaline-inducing rush of bungee jumping from Kawarau Bridge to the gourmet delight of world-class wine tasting New Zealand has it all. A car provides the perfect vantage point to appreciate the dramatic landscape. One moment the countryside is a pastoral postcard of rolling green hills and fluffy sheep only to shift abruptly to sweeping ocean views and crashing waves. Already famous for producing acclaimed Sauvignon Blanc, known as "Savvy" by locals, New Zealand also produces some of the world’s best Pinot Noir. Wine tasting is a must and top wineries include Cloudy Bay, Craggy Ridge, and Amisfield. The country is also a paradise for adventure enthusiasts – even the most luxurious destination offers an impressive array of activities from windsurfing and hiking to mountain biking and horseback riding. Best of all, New Zealanders are known for their buoyant charm and sincere warmth making this paradise an unforgettable experience in every sense.

Where to Stay:

Passing through a residential area of Queenstown, you just start to wonder whether you’re in the right place when the front gates of Azur appear and you’re instantly dazzled by the contrast of the cedar and stone-clad main building and the blinding blue water of Lake Wakatipu. An atmosphere of inviting luxury is enhanced by the attentive staff who make you feel at home with a welcome offer of tea or wine. Inquiries about personal interests are made so that your stay can be as perfect as possible. Azur is proud to have the premier concierge in the country and he’s an indispensable asset in fine-tuning your plans. One of the nine beautifully-appointed free-standing villas awaits. An incredible attention to detail is apparent throughout from the state-of-the-art sound system to the exquisite bedding and bath amenities to the breathtaking vistas from your deck. A gourmet breakfast and indulgent happy hour are two daily high points for all guests. Room service is available on demand and caters to individual preferences, all of which are artfully presented on the finest china. Quite simply, Azur is incomparable.

Getting There and Around:

New Zealand has four international airports: Auckland, Wellington, Auckland and Christchurch. Driving is an ideal way to see the countryside and everything is very well marked. For more destination and travel information please visit www.newzealand.com/travel

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Check It Out: New Zealand Top 10
Anthony Ross, General Manager of Azur

1. The scenic helicopter flight of a lifetime to Milford Sound, stopping on a beach on the Tasman Sea and a mountain top glacier on the way home - www.heli-flights.co.nz/

2. Fishing for trout and salmon in one of regions scenic rivers or Lake Wakatipu

3. Bungee, at the home of bungee, Kawarau Bridge

4. A tour of the renowned Central Otago wineries in Gibston Valley and Bannockburn followed by lunch at Amisfield

5. A jet boat ride in the scenic beauty of Dart River or the dramatic Shotover Canyon

6. A gondola ride up to Skyline for a coffee, a luge ride or just to appreciate the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the lake

7. A trip to historic Arrowtown, a browse around the shops or perhaps look at the Chinese Village Historic area – 20 min. from Queenstown

8. A walk to Sam Summers Hut through the native beech forest, across crystal clear mountain streams and on to the top with fantastic wilderness views – 10 min. drive from Azur

9. A four wheel drive drip to the stunning Skippers Canyon – the start of this magnificent drive is 10 min. from Queenstown

10. Dinner at the Bathhouse, right on the lake. The best place to enjoy a local Pinot Noir while watching the sunset