When developer Kevin Carlin first arrived in Queenstown 30 years ago, he was reportedly told not to appear “too flash” around town. Clearly things have changed on the South Island. In April, the US-born, long-term New Zealand resident opened The Carlin. And it’s hard to imagine a flashier view.The seven-level terraced building – estimated to have cost $NZ30 million to build – is more modern-day chalet than typical resort town hotel.
Although it’s nice to stay somewhere shiny and new, a bit of old-world elegance never goes astray – particularly when the hotel is located in the heart of Auckland’s shopping district, surrounded by Gucci, Prada and Louis Vuitton. Since international borders opened and visa requirements were relaxed, Australians have been heading back to Bali in droves –lists Indonesia as one of the most popular destinations for short-term trips.