Issue link: https://www.balharbourdigital.com/i/1516204
P H OTO BY L I S A S U N (F LO C K H I L L ) AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND are synonymous with many things —unbeatable outdoor pursuits, superb, fresh food, and an unforced friendliness amongst the locals. For some time, though, the challenge for luxe-loving visitors was the dearth of true f ive-star accommodations outside the main cities. That all changed when both countries began parallel programs—the Luxury Lodges of Australia and the Luxury Villas of New Zealand—aimed at dispelling that notion, and now networks of ultra-luxe lodges abound. Over the last decade-plus, local travel specialists have leaned heavily on the prog rams when planning luxe multi-stop itineraries in the region. "They're probably the most important thing to happen in the last quarter-century for luxury travel in Australia," says The Tailor's Drew Kluska of the program. Each property, he notes, is distinctive, but the Luxury Lodges program acts as an accreditation of quality in service, experience, and more, like a locally focused counterpart to global lux- ury guarantors, whether Virtuoso or Leading Hotels of the World. "They hold each other accountable, share experiences, and exchange knowl- edge, and so the qualit y has increased year on year." Stuar t Rigg of Southern Crossings agrees. Most of the properties are locally owned and operated, which means they're primed to focus far more on making sure every aspect of their hotel, from operations to excursions, is regen- erative and sustainable. Positive impact for luxury travel is a goal, rather than an afterthought. "It's largely about local guides and encouraging engagement with the community," says Riggs. "Many properties oŽer guests the opportunity to give back through local conservation activi- ties, thus connecting them to the region long after their stay." Across the region, there are more than 30 such Luxury Lodges and Luxury Villas properties, but we've selected the eight standouts that cater to a particular interest—be it safari, culinary pursuits, snorkeling, and so much more. BELOW Flockhill Lodge sits on a 36,000-acre farm in the Craigieburn Valley. FLOCKHILL LODGE, CANTERBURY BEST FOR: HIKERS AND FISHING AFICIONADOS This working sheep station, or farm, sits in glorious isolation in the heart of the South Island. Ask to watch the shearers at work in their shed, the radio blaring as dozens of sheep pass near-silently along the shearing line. Those sheep share the 36,000-acre farm with an ultra-modern four-bedroom home- stead that sits perched on a hillside overlook- ing the valley (a cluster of additional villas will open in December just a short stroll down the slopes). Sit by the infinity pool to admire the view, or head out into the landscape to explore. Hike around the gorges or cast a line into the waters that quilt the property—fly fishing season runs from October to April. The property even poached its chef, Taylor Cullen, from one of Sydney's top restaurants to run its restaurant, Sugarloaf, so the food is inventive without being fussy, like citrus-spiked Bruny Island oysters, the rare delicacy that grows on the promontory close to the Antarctic circle. NEW ZEALAND 208 BAL HARBOUR