Travel editors hail two NZ luxury hotels

The Bishop's Suites in Nelson is one of two new New Zealand properties singled out on Conde Nast Traveler's 'Hot List'. Photo / Supplied

Two top South Island accommodation providers are looking forward to big spin-offs after appearing on a international list of the world's best new hotels.

Hilton Queenstown and Nelson's Bishop's Suites feature in the Conde Nast Traveler's "Hot List" of the world's best new hotels, chosen by the magazine's editors.

Conde Nast Traveler called the Hilton "Asian-inspired serenity with Maori touches".

"The lakefront Hilton is the jewel - near yet wonderfully far from the tourist magnet that is Queenstown," it says. "While the Hilton may be light on ultra-luxe touches, its lure is magnetic, thanks to such tranquil comforts as the high-ceilinged 82-foot [23m] indoor pool with access (via circular staircase) to a 10-room spa."

Hilton Queenstown general manager Marlene Poynder said Conde Nast Traveler was probably the most read publication globally "from a travel sense" and within the tourism industry. The recognition would throw a spotlight on Queenstown as well as the hotel.

"Our global PR agency in New York has already picked up on it. So we know that the news will travel fast. When people are thinking of travelling to this part of the world, they might put Queenstown on their list now ...particularly in the younger affluent demographic," Ms Poynder said.

Conde Nast Traveler said the Bishop's Suites - luxury stand-alone apartments attached to an 87-year-old Nelson homestead - had a "wedding album perfect" look.

"This gracious, secluded home feels like a country retreat, and being greeted like long-lost friends is just the beginning," it says.

"Mary and Peter Dallison may be new to luxury hosting, but what's here is on a par with the best high-end lodges in New Zealand."

Mr Dallison said the accolade was amazing, and would help to put Nelson on the map as a luxury destination.

"It just doesn't get any better."

TOP SPOTS

Hilton Queenstown: $345 a night in deluxe lake view room in low season; $245 a night for guest room in the low season; only Queenstown hotel directly on the shores of Lake Wakatipu; stone fireplaces feature in all rooms.

Bishop's Suites, Nelson: $1500 (sleeping two people) to $2850 (sleeping four people) plus tax, including meals; luxury apartments added to Bishopdale Estate homestead, on an 8ha estate; open fireplace, air conditioning, flat-screen TV in all suites.