STAY > The Lindis, New Zealand (19/20)

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Set in the heart of New Zealand’s majestic Ahuriri Valley, The Lindis is a standout luxury lodge that redefines high country hospitality with a blend of architectural elegance, immersive natural beauty, and bespoke experiences.

LOCATION >

Tucked within a 240-hectare sheep and cattle station in the South Island, The Lindis commands sweeping views of the Ahuriri Valley, framed by the grandeur of the Southern Alps. It’s remote yet accessible, offering an exclusive gateway to some of New Zealand’s most pristine landscapes—from tranquil rivers ideal for world-class fly fishing to hiking trails and horseback riding across wild, untamed terrain.

THE PROPERTY & STYLE >

With just eight suites, including two Master Suites, three lodge suites, and three remarkable glass pods, The Lindis ensures privacy and intimacy. The architecture is striking—clean geometric lines and natural materials blend effortlessly with the rolling hills. Floor-to-ceiling windows dissolve the barrier between indoors and the breathtaking outdoors, with the glass pods providing the ultimate in starlit bathing experiences thanks to their private outdoor tubs.

DINING & CUISINE >

Culinary excellence is a hallmark here, led by Head Chef Guillaume Laurent. The kitchen champions local, seasonal New Zealand produce, serving multi-course dinners paired with perfectly selected local and international wines. The private dining experience known as The Black Diamond is a standout: a gourmet feast accompanied by Louis Roederer champagne and fine wines, crafting an elevated, intimate dining occasion.

WELLNESS & AMENITIES >

Tranquillity is a priority at The Lindis, with indulgent touches like a rooftop hot tub designed for stargazing under some of the clearest skies in the world. Personalized service is pervasive, from welcome champagne to daily printed menus and custom water bottles on excursions, ensuring every guest feels uniquely catered for.

EXPERIENCE & ACTIVITIES >

The lodge offers an adventure playground for nature lovers and seekers of serene escape alike. Activities include guided hikes, fly fishing in the Ahuriri River, horseback rides, and helicopter tours to iconic peaks such as Mt. Cook and Mt. Aspiring. For guests seeking quiet contemplation, the lodge’s design and location provide a rare sense of solitude and connection to the land.

DID SOME ONE SAY DEFENDER >

If just staying in one of the most beautiful places in the world and relaxing is not quite enough then you can book in for the Defender experience. Three days of exploring the stunning wilderness in a LandRover Defender, after an initial briefing guests take the wheel and the challenge across gravel tracks, snowy passes, and steep climbs through the Central Otago and Canterbury high country. The journey traverses private and public off-road trails, including the historic Carrick Range and the Nevis Road—New Zealand’s highest public road—switching between “Grass/Gravel/Snow” and “Rock Crawl” modes for ever-changing terrain.

Beyond heart-pounding drives, the programme also includes clay shooting, archery, spa treatments, farm tours, and guided hikes, offering ample chance to unwind and connect with New Zealand’s wild beauty. What truly sets this experience apart is the meticulously orchestrated blend of adrenaline and refinement—each detail, from off-road coaching to gourmet feasts, is thoughtfully woven into the high-country narrative.

THE VERDICT >

The Lindis is an extraordinary blend of rugged high country wilderness and refined luxury. It is perfectly suited to couples and discerning travelers who value exclusivity, quiet indulgence, and an authentic New Zealand experience. From its breathtaking architecture and epic natural vistas to its exceptional cuisine and thoughtful service, The Lindis promises a memorable escape into one of the Southern Hemisphere’s finest wildernesses.

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