Indulge 1Photos: Tourism New ZealandBy Ruth Atherley
 
While there are plenty of budget and reasonably-priced places to stay on New Zealand’s North and South Islands, there is a growing trend for even the most budget-conscious visitors to take a night or two to indulge themselves in one the swisher lodges or hotels.
 
The Boatshed on Waiheke Island, which is just a 40-minute ferry ride from Auckland, offers visitors a charming slice of Kiwi life.

The fact that the Boatshed is located on the island, which is home to a number of beautiful vineyards, local artists and lovely beaches, just makes a visit there that much more of a treat.

The property’s five suites and two bungalows are designed to reflect ‘baches’ – a New Zealand term for a holiday home – but there is also an eclectic mix of room types on offer too, and they all boast views of the ocean.

The property’s Boatshed’s Restaurant is open exclusively for guests. The service style is in a relaxed, the setting is al fresco, and the menu showcases New Zealand seafood, gourmet meat cuts and organic vegetables.

Then there is Black Barn, which is located in the wine region of Hawke’s Bay.

Indulge 2The vineyard at Black Barn produces some fabulous wines, and accommodation is available within the vineyard itself.

From the eight-bedroom luxury retreat to the two-bedroom turn-of-the-century cottage in the heart of the vineyard, Black Barn certainly offers wine-lovers a sip of something very special.

Everyone at Black Barn loves to talk wine. One question to the staff turns into a half-hour conversation between wine-loving friends. And for music fans, Black Barn presents a series of summer concerts, so you can sit back, put your feet up, sip a glass of wine and enjoy the good life.

In the Bay of Islands, travellers can fully indulge themselves at Eagles Nest, which offers a choice of five magnificent villas nestled upon a beautiful peninsula.

Culinary resources at Eagles Nest include impressive resident chefs, a superb wine cellar and fresh, locally-sourced foods.

The breathtaking scenery blends with the creative and sophisticated architectural and interior design, which makes the villas feel that they are completely connected to nature.

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