Tradie’s guide to the best bars, restaurants and hotels as you travel New Zealand.
QUEENSTOWN
STAY: Cross Hill Lodge & Domes are premium, unique accommodation in Lake Hawea. Offering high country hospitality at its best, guests at Cross Hill Lodge & Domes become part of the family. Guests can use their own private geo dome as a base from which to explore the region.
EAT/DRINK: Little Aosta is perfect for a meal at the end of the day. The cuisine of both is inspired by the cooking techniques of Northern Italy paired with ingredients of the South of New Zealand. The menu is designed to bring the magic of an authentic multi-generational Arrowtown while still capturing the essence of northern Italian food, pared back and designed for sharing.
LAKE TAUPO
STAY: Wairakei Resort Taupo is situated in a spectacular geothermal valley, just minutes from Taupo’s city centre. Experience the beauty of this region as well as thermally heated pools, six spa pools, a golf course, fitness centre and exceptional cuisine.
EAT/DRINK: The Bay Taupo offers the community the perfect destination to socialise, dine and unwind. We invite you to be our guest, to enjoy the new fresh and tasty food and drinks menu.
ROTORUA
STAY: Solitaire Lodge, the second oldest lodge in New Zealand, is a luxury, peaceful retreat perched on a narrow peninsula overlooking beautiful Lake Tarawera. Solitaire overlooks from a hillside atop a peninsula, surrounded by the lake’s calm waters, with a view of the Tarawera volcano in the distance.
EAT/DRINK: Pig & Whistle Historic Pub is a local landmark with great history and is centrally located in a classic piece of bold 1940’s architecture. It hosts live bands every weekend and big screen TVs are tuned in to your favourite sports.
OTAGO
STAY: Tussock Lodge is a warm and welcoming accommodation for weary travellers of the Otago Central Rail Trail or those exploring the area. We utilise the latest in eco-friendly appliances and fixtures to help reduce the impact on this remote environment.
EAT/DRINK: The Stoaker Room located in Central Otago includes a “Barrel Cuisine” which is a taste sensation of delicious regional foods that are either steam baked, steam grilled or smoked in the Stoaker Barrels on the day and in front of you, so you can join in the experience.
KAIKOURA
STAY: Nikau Lodge is a boutique accommodation conveniently located in the heart of Kaikoura with magnificent hilltop views of sea and mountains. Nikau Lodge offers guests stunning scenery and kiwi hospitality to match.
EAT/DRINK: Mount Fyfee Gin Distillery is situated just 10km north of the Kaikoura township nestled within a working sheep and beef farm. Meet Justine the distiller who can show you the process of gin making, introduce you to ‘Bruce’ the 40 litre copper Alembic Still that works the magic and her bespoke production line.