I am just back from two weeks in NZ, and stayed at three of the top-end lodges: Otahuna, the Farm at Cape Kidnappers, and Matakauri Lodge. They were all excellent, with different strengths, so it depends on what you are most wanting. My personal favorite was the Farm at Cape Kidnappers, which is amazing in its scale, activities, staff, accommodation, and overall ambience. Otahuna has an amazing chef and very, very personal service, more like being in your own home than any place I have stayed. And the views at Matakauri are to die for.