EXPLORING LUXURY IN FIJI & NEW ZEALAND

The Island Paradise Of Fiji

It all began with a dream of turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and luxurious retreats. As the plane descended into Nadi International Airport, the breathtaking views of Fiji’s archipelago unfolded beneath, promising a journey filled with indulgence and serenity.

Venturing Further Into The Islands

Leaving the comfort of Denarau behind, we embarked on a journey to explore some of Fiji’s more secluded treasures.

SOFITEL FIJI RESORT & SPA

First stop, the Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa on Denarau Island. As we arrived, we were greeted with the traditional Fijian ‘Bula!’ and the scent of frangipani flowers. The resort, known for its French elegance fused with Fijian warmth, was a haven of relaxation. Our suite boasted stunning ocean views, and the infinity pool seemed to blend seamlessly with the azure sea. The advantage of the exclusive Waitui Beach Club – a kid free zone if you want quiet time. Days were spent basking in the sun, enjoying rejuvenating spa treatments, and dining at the waterfront restaurants where local seafood was prepared with exquisite French flair.

HILTON FIJI BEACH RESORT & SPA

Next, we moved to the Hilton Fiji Beach Resort and Spa, just a stone’s throw away. The Hilton’s villas offered a perfect blend of modern luxury and island charm, each with private pools and direct beach access. Mornings began with yoga on the beach, followed by hearty breakfasts featuring tropical fruits and freshly baked pastries. The afternoons were filled with water adventures— snorkelling among vibrant coral reefs and paddleboarding in the crystal-clear lagoon. Evenings at the Hilton were magical, with beachfront dining under the stars, accompanied by traditional Fijian music and dance performances.

North To South Luxury New Zealand

Leaving the tropical paradise of Fiji, our adventure continued to the diverse and stunning landscapes of New Zealand.

Likuliku Lagoon Resort

Our next destination was the Likuliku Lagoon Resort, a short helicopter ride away. Famous for its overwater bungalows, the resort offered an unparalleled experience of tranquillity and romance. The bungalows stood on stilts above the pristine lagoon, with glass floors that allowed us to watch the colourful marine life below. Days here were spent in absolute relaxation—sunbathing on our private deck, exploring the coral gardens, and savouring gourmet meals that showcased the freshest local ingredients. The resort’s commitment to sustainability and preservation of the natural environment was evident, adding a deeper sense of appreciation to our stay.

Malolo Island Resort

Just nearby, Malolo Island Resort welcomed us with its family-friendly charm and rustic luxury. The beachfront bures were perfect for unwinding, surrounded by lush gardens and the sound of the waves. Malolo offered a more laid-back vibe, with activities like hiking to scenic viewpoints, visiting local villages, and participating in traditional Fijian crafts. The sunset cruises were a highlight, offering stunning views of the horizon painted in hues of orange and pink, a perfect end to idyllic island days.

Rosewood Kauri Cliffs Kerikeri North Island

Our first stop was the Rosewood Kauri Cliffs, located on New Zealand’s North Island. Renowned for its world-class golf course, the resort was set on 6,000 acres of pristine land overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The view from our suite was nothing short of spectacular, with rolling hills and dramatic cliffs meeting the vast sea. The golf course, ranked among the world’s best, was a golfer’s dream, offering challenging play and breathtaking scenery. Off the course we tried the relaxing spa treatments. Dining at Kauri Cliffs was a gastronomic journey, with meals prepared using fresh, local produce, often accompanied by fine New Zealand wines.

THE HOTEL BRITOMART, AUCKLAND

In the heart of Auckland, The Hotel Britomart provided a chic urban retreat. Its eco-friendly design and stylish interiors made it a standout in the city’s bustling Britomart district. From here, you can explore Auckland’s vibrant waterfront, boutique shopping, and dynamic culinary scene. They have just launched Nourishing Nature, a native forest farm experience for people who want to leave a lasting positive impact in the place they’ve come to explore. On this half-day (4 hour) experience, you’ll head to the beautiful Waitakare Ranges to visit a ‘native forest farm’ that’s taking traditional native plant ingredients into some of Auckland’s best restaurants. You’ll forage herbs and plants with the guidance of an expert, discover the taste profiles of these ingredients and learn how reforesting native bush helps New Zealand’s rich biodiversity flourish. After the harvest, you’ll discover the unique flavours of these traditional foods alongside artisan cheeses, meats and breads in a spectacular open-air glasshouse in the forest.

The Lindus Luxury Lodge South Island

The grand finale of our journey was Lindis Luxury Lodge, set amidst the dramatic landscapes of New Zealand’s South Island. Nestled in the Ahuriri Valley, the lodge was an architectural marvel blending seamlessly with its surroundings. The panoramic views of snow-capped mountains, golden tussock lands, and the winding river below were awe-inspiring. At Lindis, days were filled with outdoor pursuits with the highlight being a 2 day Land Rover tour. We spent the evenings drinking fine wines and gazing under the clearest skies. The lodge’s intimate setting and impeccable service made us feel like we had the whole valley to ourselves, providing a perfect conclusion to our luxurious journey.

As our adventure came to an end, we reflected on the diverse experiences that made this journey unforgettable. From the tropical allure of Fiji’s islands to the majestic beauty of New Zealand’s landscapes, each destination offered its own unique charm and luxury. We returned home with our hearts full, our spirits rejuvenated, and memories that would last a lifetime.