We test one of Queenstown’s top resorts

Sunday, 9 March 2025

We take a peek inside one of New Zealand's most famous resorts

Chances are you’ve seen a slice of Millbrook on TV; the Queenstown resort is home to the New Zealand Open, the country’s highest-profile golf tournament.

But beyond the greens, the 650-acre estate is also a luxury retreat framed by snow-capped mountains and rolling fairways. Here’s what it’s like to stay.

The place

Millbrook is more than a hotel; it’s a self-contained village. The resort and its world-class golf courses (yes, there are actually two 18-hole championship courses) are just 20 minutes from Queenstown Airport and a stone’s throw from historic Arrowtown.

It has more than 160 rooms, five restaurants, and a luxurious spa where you can unwind with an indulgent treatment. Guests also get free access to a 25-metre heated indoor lap pool, two outdoor spa pools, a sauna, and a hot tub.

The room

Rooms at Millbrook feel more like private retreats. They have a huge variety of accommodation options, from studios to suites to entire luxury homes.

We stayed in a Deluxe Studio, with a plush king bed, underfloor heating, and French doors opening to a sun-soaked patio. The interiors blend classic elegance with modern comfort - think high ceilings, timber beams, and soft tones.

Food and drink

Millbrook’s dining scene is like everything else at the resort - world-class. The casual Hole in One café overlooks the course and is perfect for an easy meal.

If you want something a little more elegant, Millhouse has an exceptional menu sourced from its own gardens and local farmers.

Kobe Cuisine serves up some of the best Japanese food in New Zealand, including wagyu short rib curry and fresh sashimi.

The highlight

Millbrook Resort has more than 160 rooms in total.

The atmosphere at Millbrook is so relaxing, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a sanctuary that you really don’t want to leave. But when you do, there are free shuttles to central Queenstown and Arrowtown.

The lowlight

I didn’t quite have time for a spa treatment, and all the other guests were raving about it. Next time.

Fact file:

Getting there: Air New Zealand has direct flights from Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch. See: airnz.co.nz. Jetstar has direct flights from Auckland and Wellington to Queenstown. See: jetstar.co.nz

Staying there: Rates at Millbrook Resort start from $432 per night. See: millbrook.co.nz

Carbon footprint: Flying generates carbon emissions. To reduce your impact, consider other ways of travelling, amalgamate your trips, and when you need to fly, consider offsetting emissions.

The author was hosted by Queenstown NZ.