AUCKLAND

New Zealand leads with its natural attractions more than its urban ones, but it's worth lingering in its largest city, and after the long flight there's all the more reason to find a welcome space to rest and readjust. Auckland's hotel scene begins in the Central Business District (CBD), where a new post-pandemic energy has seen a wave of openings including restaurants and rooftop bars. Away from the shadow of the needle-pointed Sky Tower, seaside neighbourhoods such as Takapuna, Devonport and Mission Bay attract quirky breweries and top-notch cafes, and all around you'll find hilltop viewpoints, award-winning vineyards and white-sand beaches.

- CHARLOTTE LYTTON

Best for city views
££ SO AUCKLAND 

White wakes line the expanse of Waitematā Harbour, which separates the city centre from its North Shore suburbs across the bay. It looks especially impressive from Hi-SO, the 16th-floor cocktail bar at SO Auckland. Order a high&loud for a smoky-sweet mezcal number, while taking in views of the high-rises along the waterfront. The hotel sets itself apart from other chains in the CBD with avant-garde art across its lobby, which feels part-exhibition, part-nightclub. Running routes are laid out on the in-room screens to help you see the best of Auckland, and with a spa, sauna, and pillow menu, unwinding in style is guaranteed. ROOMS:  From NZ$398 (£192), room only. so-auckland.com

Best for wellness 
£££ PARO HEIS LAND RETREAT 

Thickly forested Kawau Island lies just beyond the urban orbit, a mile offshore in the Hauraki Gulf, 70 minutes north by road and water taxi from the CBD. At the innermost end of the harbour around which the island wraps itself, Parohe is a wellness retreat ensconced in 50 acres of native bush, with yoga platforms, massage huts, saunas and outdoor baths to help guests detach — a feeling also achieved with assistance from the resident alpacas, Karen and Steve. The retreat has a schedule of activities encouraging guests to connect with land and sea, including volleyball, fishing and pétanque. With locally sourced veggie meals to enjoy by the firepit as the stars gather, you’ll feel blissed out in no time.
ROOMS : From NZ$650 (£315), all inclusive. parohe.co.nz