Top Resorts in Australia and New Zealand 2023

When you’re spending 14 hours on a plane just to reach your vacation destination, expectations naturally run high. A lackluster weekend getaway may be overlooked, but the stakes are much higher when you’ve traveled across the globe. Your hotel needs to deliver an exceptional experience. That’s why, in Australia and New Zealand, travelers have selected properties that truly impress. These resorts not only fulfill the essentials for a five-star stay—such as a prime location, impeccable service, and luxurious accommodations—but also offer something extraordinary. Each year, for our World’s Best Awards survey, iBestTravel asks readers to share their insights on travel experiences worldwide, from hotels and resorts to cities, islands, and beyond. Hotels are evaluated on amenities, location, service, cuisine, and overall value, and categorized as either City or Resort based on their offerings.

5. Matakauri Lodge, Queenstown, New Zealand

Score: 94.97

4. The Louise, Barossa Valley, Australia

Score: 96.22

3. Southern Ocean Lodge, Kangaroo Island, Australia

Score: 96.30

2. Farm at Cape Kidnappers, Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand

Score: 96.54

1. Lodge at Kauri Cliffs, Matauri Bay, New Zealand

Score: 98.61

The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs is set on a sprawling 6,000-acre property overlooking the sea. This 22-suite lodge exudes both refinement and seclusion. Nestled on the eastern shore of the North Island, guests can set up a wake-up call to watch the magnificent sunrise from their cliff-top suites. The estate features three private beaches and lush native forest, along with one of the world’s premier golf courses. The lodge boasts an exceptional spa and numerous cozy niches for relaxation. Each suite, designed in a sleek yet traditional style, includes fireplaces and private porches, while the main lodge’s sunny veranda is particularly inviting. Should relaxation give way to adventure, the lodge provides a full spectrum of activities, including watersports and outdoor excursions. “This is a truly remarkable find at the end of the earth,” remarked one satisfied visitor.