Minaret Station

Hidden away among the peaks of the Southern Alps, Minaret Station’s collection of luxury chalets can only be reached by helicopter transfer. And what a flight it is, soaring over lakeside crags with peaks dusted in white and their troughs thick with greenery.

Remote it may be but there’s not a single sign of compromise. High country design is realised in sheepskin rugs and expansive private decks, host to soaking hot tubs, while modern comforts come in the form of WiFi, Nespresso machines and surround sound. They’re linked back to the main lodge by raised wooden boardwalks, leading to wood-burning fires, a superb wine cellar and a fine dining kitchen. It’s here that your gourmet meals are prepared with ultra-fresh local produce presented across contemporary European menus.

Start the day with à la carte breakfasts from the station’s working farm and end it with three-course fine dining, complemented by pre-dinner canapés and fine pairings from the cellar. But it’s the adventure activities that truly shine. Explore a mountain range wilderness with the possibility of booking everything from biking and hiking to fishing, boating and hunting. It’s all improved – not least the skiing – by helicopter transfers, affording you exclusive access to unique settings.

With this in mind, we’ve included a heli-hiking experience on your third day. Your scenic flight will bring you to an otherwise inaccessible location; choose from rushing waterfalls, undulating valley floors and craggy mountain ridges on individually tailored guided walks. Each day, the chef will prepare an indulgent picnic for your adventures or you might prefer to take things slower with a sit-down lunch back at base. You’ll end with a final helicopter transfer back to Wanaka or Queenstown Airport.