Coronet Ridge Resort

Just minutes from the ski field, nestled amongst the ever-changing alpine landscape, and overlooking sweeping views of Kimiākau (Shotover River) at Arthurs Point, is the newly-opened Coronet Ridge Resort—Tāhuna Queenstown’s latest five-star luxury retreat. 

Arrive to a breathtaking backdrop of Pāhāraki (Coronet Peak) and views to Kawarau (The Remarkables mountain range), and enter the intimate, 41-room alpine sanctuary. Managed by Capstone Hotel Management, and led by General Manager Ethan Heng, Coronet Ridge Resort has everything you’ll need in one place for a relaxing alpine destination getaway—complete with their own high-end bar and restaurant looking out to the landscape, a Roman-inspired day spa and private outdoor hot tubs, custom conference space, indoor fitness and squash courts, as well as a cosy cinema you can book in just for yourself (perfect for an evening wind-down).

With architectural and interior design by Tāmaki Makaurau’s G2 Studio, along with interiors in collaboration with Furnz Group, the spaces are a reflection of the beautiful textures and colours of the Southland terrain. With sandy tussock shades and stone-coloured fabrics alongside sleek wooden finishes, pops of forest green and brushed gold accents, touches of ceramics and warm lighting—it feels luxurious and welcoming as soon as you step in.

Local art pieces and framed aerial photography of the landscape are showcased on the walls, while thoughtfully curated books on Aotearoa food, art, design and photography are placed on shelves and coffee tables throughout the spaces, waiting to be discovered at each cosy nook, or to read by the fireplace with a drink in hand (or step into their intimate wine room, for a cosy and private post-dinner drink). 

Make time for a post-adventure soak at their Roman-inspired day spa, complete with steamer and sauna rooms—or treat yourself to a range of their spa packages with all the facial, exfoliation, hydration wrap and massage options (using Aotearoa skincare brands Corbin Road and RAAIE too).

Book yourself a slot at one of their private outdoor hot tubs too—it’s a must-do with incredible views under the open night sky. During the ski season, this will definitely be something to treat yourself to after a big day at the slopes. 

Each of the rooms and suites have their very own private balconies or patios to soak in the alpine views (with some room options including a personal outdoor bath for you to really soak it all in). Enjoy watching the ever-changing view, with thoughtfully selected New Zealand non-alcoholic drinks and snacks from the in-room minibar, or opt for room service options during Elevation Restaurant’s hours (they have charcuterie and cheese boards or larger plates similar to the restaurant menu, which you can read about here).

Those staying at the Shotover River room or suite will be able to spot the iconic red shotover jet zipping through the water below too (and you’ll also get great views of this from Elevation Restaurant and Bar if you’re planning to head there for dinner, which we highly recommend).

After dinner, catch the sunset from your lush King bed, before getting some of the best sleep you’ll ever have—with Dream Ticket Pillow Lodge hypoallergenic pillows (filled with microfibers made from 31 recycled plastic pillows), and additional pillows from their bespoke pillow menu to take your pick from.

Unwind with all the lush amenities of an en suite bathroom—rainfall shower or a long bath soak with the relaxing scent of sandalwood and bitter orange from Tāmaki Makaurau’s MARACA’s Sevillian Neroli body wash range. Conclude with a spritz of Golden Bay’s Manuka Dreams mānuka and lavender sleep mist, and a freshly brewed cuppa of Pōneke’s t leaf T in Honeyed Chamomile with NZ kawakawa bed-side, which makes for one memorable pre-bedtime ritual.

Wake up to sun-kissed mountain views and head to the Elevation Restaurant for a hearty cooked-to-order breakfast before heading out for more adventures. Along with barista coffee, choose from breakfast mains like homemade date bread and eggs, with the addition of popular breakfast-style mushroom Stroganoff; a cheese-melt Mount Cook salmon breakfast bagel, beurre noisette pancakes (with caramelised bacon and all the whipped cream, chocolate sauce and berry-banana trimmings), honey-toasted granola, wellness bowls or just sourdough with eggs your way with the option to add sides—this menu has something for every breakfast mood.

Those who miss breakfast can still get most breakfast picks on the à la carte brunch menu, along with more lunch-type things like their roast chicken and potatoes, heirloom tomato and stracciatella, and rigatoni pasta dishes too. Admire the panoramic views of the Wakatipu Basin, Kawarau and Kimiākau one last time before you embark on your next adventure. Whatever the season, plan your getaway to this slice of alpine paradise. 

Words by: Vicki Young | Images: Supplied