New Zealand’s summer (December to February), is a popular time for travel to New Zealand; a tempting escape from the short days of Winter in the northern hemisphere.

Summer activities tend to make the most of the sun, sea and sand here in New Zealand, and a Christmas Day BBQ lunch with all the trimmings is often viewed by international guests as a memorable ‘Kiwi’ novelty.

In New Zealand, the weeks surrounding Christmas and New Year tend to book out quickly (often more than a year in advance), particularly in key beach and lakeside hot spots - Bay of Islands, Queenstown and Wanaka - where the many beaches and lakes are both beautiful to explore and perfect to cool off in.

Luxury Villas of New Zealand has limited availability during these peak weeks, including:

• Bay of Islands - 6-bedroom villa on a private inlet - available for Christmas and New Year (minimum 5-nights)

• Hawkes Bay - 7 bedroom villa set within 10 acres - available until 27 December (minimum 5-nights)

• Queenstown - 7-bedroom villa on the lakefront - available 20-28 December (minimum 5-nights)

• Queenstown - 5-bedroom villa with magnificent views, close to town - available 30 Dec-5 Jan (minimum 5 nights)

• Queenstown - 5-bedroom villa with magnificent lake and mountain views - available 30 Dec-2 January (3-nights)

• Wanaka - large 7-bedroom estate on the lakefront - available 20-28 December (minimum 5-nights)

• Wanaka - large 6-bedroom villa, with swimming pool, mountain views and full service - available 27 December (minimum 7 nights)

Availability as at 29 September 2024 - subject to change.
Rates and minimum stays vary by property, from NZD6,500 per night to NZD39,000 per night. A mix of self catering and fully inclusive stays are available.