What does luxury mean to you?
We might not all be able to afford to visit the world’s most upmarket spots and luxurious hideaways, but that doesn’t stop us from being curious or dreaming about what we might do should we come into a large sum of money. Where does your flight of fancy take you? Is it to a top ski resort, extraordinary dining experience, first spa, or an elegant luxury casino where you can rub shoulders with A-list celebrities and other VIP guests?
How rich is rich?
Unless you were born into privilege, the chances are that you will need Lady Luck to be on your side to hit the high life. While a percentage of people do make millions from sheer hard work, most wealthy people have had a helping hand somewhere along the way. Two-thirds of millionaires claim they do not feel rich, and eight in ten consider themselves “self-made,” but studies show that more than fifty percent of the world’s wealthiest inherited a more than decent sum.
If you are not in line for a golden handout anytime soon and are more of a regular Joe or Johanna, then chances are the upmarket spots might just remain something to aspire to. However, what would you do if you did get lucky?
Far-Flung Travel
You have probably dreamed about luxurious travel to far-flung places. If you have, you probably can’t find anywhere more “far-flung” than New Zealand. Comprising two distinct islands, it is over 2,500 miles from its nearest neighbor, Australia. New Zealand thinks of itself as a basic, straightforward, honest place to live, but it also has its fair share of wealthy people.
In 2022, it was reported that there were around 255,000 New Zealanders with wealth above US$1 million, and 2.05 million New Zealanders were in the top 10% of global wealth-holders. As it only has just over 5 million people, that is not an inconsiderable number, so where would visitors go to enjoy some of New Zealand’s most upmarket places?
Like a Queen in Queenstown
New Zealand prides itself on beautiful landscapes and vast wildernesses where tourists can drink in the scenery. It is claimed that exploring New Zealand’s walking and hiking trails is one of the best ways to explore the country’s extraordinary natural beauty. However, you do not need to rough it.
Queenstown is one of the country’s most popular destinations on the shore of Lake Wakatipu. The picturesque town offers spectacular walks directly from the door of luxury lodges. You can even procure the services of a private guide. While you are there, take a trip into the bustling town centre.
Not to be missed are the Million Dollar Cruises – which take you on a 90-minute journey on the lake and let you soak in the majestic Remarkables, tranquil willow island, and the historic Kawarau Falls Dam. The scenery, wildlife, geology, and history are a whole new experience in “upmarket”. No amount of money could buy these pristine waters or superb native species. The company prides itself on offering exceptional value for money, outstanding service, and a relaxed atmosphere.
Glittering Casinos
Kiwis are renowned for their love of slots – or, as they call them, pokies. Many Kiwis try to cash the jackpot out of the top-ranked pokies, and while everyone knows that you can only realistically play for fun, one man from Matamata reportedly won the $10m jackpot in 2016. However, the country also delivers a top-class luxury casino experience.
Sky City Casinos offers a no-holds-barred night out. Start your evening with a glamorous cocktail before taking to the dance floor. You can also try out the delectable Pacific Rim cuisine and taste New Zealand’s award-winning wines at one of the many restaurants.
Auckland’s SkyCity Casino is in one of the world’s tallest buildings; it is hard to imagine anywhere more upmarket than a casino 328m above the ground. Hamilton’s SkyCity offers incredible views over the Waikato River, while Dunedin’s creates an opulent Monte-Carlo-style vibe. If you visited Queenstown for that scenery and boat ride, you do not need to miss out because its lively casino is slap bang on the wharf with views of the lake and mountains.
Middle Earth Magic
If you are a Lord of the Rings fan, New Zealand is a very special place. This is where Tolkien’s Middle Earth was brought to life for the movies. You can fly above the country’s monumental mountains, volcanoes, lakes, and coastlines.
Take to the air in a 6-seater, pristine Squirrel helicopter and get a bird’s eye view of the most magnificent mountain peaks, crystal clear lakes, and unusual glaciers and survey all of Middle‑Earth™ from an awe-inspiring position. You could combine this adventure with all kinds of thrilling activities like jet boating, heli-hiking, or snowmobiling. The millionaire lifestyle is almost within touching distance!
Unmatchable super-yacht cruises
Experience all of New Zealand’s upmarket coastline aboard a luxury yacht. It is not just the boats that are stunning, everything you need for the trip of a lifetime is to hand. The waters are teaming with marine life and you might well see whales and dolphins. Your first-class boat will take you to spectacular bays and islands far from the madding crowds.
The country has over 8,000 miles of staggeringly beautiful coastline. Travel to Northland, a region synonymous with cliff-top golf courses and exclusive lodges, and cruise between the Bay of Islands, 150 islands. They are alive with history and marine life, and you will be spoiled by the choice of secluded coves and empty beaches. Scuba divers and snorkellers from all over the world come here to experience crystal-clear seas and stunning marine life.
The ultimate stay
Do not depart the Bay of Islands region without checking in to the Rosewood Kauri Cliffs resort. Set on a 6,000-acre estate, the main lodge affords spectacular 180-degree views of the Pacific Ocean. You can find 22 suites and a selection of villas and cottages for your delectation.
The resort features on Condé Nast’s Gold list as one of the best in the world and is built in a grand colonial style. Covered verandas with outdoor fireplaces provide alfresco dining with stunning views. The resort boasts tennis courts, private beaches, and horse riding alongside a Championship golf course and wellness spa. What are you waiting for?
