Jill Worrall takes a hike to one of her favourite South Island beaches.

These luxury stand-alone apartments attached to an 87-year-old Nelson homestead are great place for a romantic South Island break. The suites were named by Conde Nast Traveler as one of the world's best new hotels in 2012.

Two South Island hotels are looking forward to big spin-offs after appearing on Conde Nast Traveler's 'Hot List'.