Local May_Final.qxp_002houston 4/23/15 12:21 PM Page 73
FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER
BLANKET BAY
OTAHUNA LODGE
Owned and operated by an American expat couple,
this legendary lodge (once New Zealand’s largest private residence) is all about the details, from the glass of
wine you’re offered at arrival and the complimentary
communal pantry stocked with fresh-baked goodies and
drinks, to the flexibility to enjoy dinner anywhere in the
historic Victorian mansion. Add to that, breakfasts in the
airy kitchen, guided tours of the gorgeous grounds
Photography by Joann Dost
Though nearby cities Queenstown and Wanaka are
known for adrenaline-pumping activities like bungee
jumping, heli-skiing, speed boating and mountain hiking, once you get to this scenic spot on Lake Wakatipu,
you’ll just want to exhale. Featuring more of a rustic,
classic lodge style than some of the other options,
Blanket Bay puts you into instant relaxation mode with
friendly, on-point service, in-room perks like steam showers or private terraces, and fun touches like a communal
game room. Plus, you’ll never be hungry: Along with the
delicious meals, you’ll find complimentary treats in the
extensive mini-bar. www.blanketbay.com
LODGE AT THE HILLS
(home to flower and veggie gardens, ponds and even
a small forest) and some of the best service in the country, and you’ll never want to leave. When guests venture
out, they usually bike into the local village, horseback
ride or hit the area vineyards, but save time for on-site
experiences like a cooking class with the noted chef –
or just lazing by the pool. www.otahuna.co.nz
With Air New Zealand’s (www.airnewzealand.com) justannounced new service from Houston to Auckland
(direct flights will start this December), it’s now easier than
ever to make the trip. Quirky and comfortable, Air New
Zealand currently features a Middle Earth-themed “epic
safety video” featuring “LOTR” director Peter Jackson and
some of the movies’ stars – but maybe that will change once
the next three “Avatar” sequels start filming there soon.
Photography by Stephen Goodenough
for miles. Despite the remote setting, meals here are a
fresh, gourmet affair. www.minaretstation.com/alpine-lodge
GEORGE CROSSING
OTAHUNA LODGE
may 15 | L O C A L 73