The Sounds Retreat, MarlboroughThis exclusive one-suite retreat opened in the easternmost arm of the Marlborough Sounds in July. Owned by Anne and Tony Brooker, it has an outdoor hot tub, fully equipped gym and private live-in chef. All of New Zealand's landscapes are here: there's hiking in the forest behind, dolphins darting in the waters in front, wine-tasting in Blenheim and whale-watching offshore at Nelson. Guests are free to explore the area using mountain bikes and a convertible Mini Cooper S.The Sounds Retreat, Picton, South Island (00 64 3 574 2965; thesoundsretreat.co.nz). Suite ... Read More