Tourism Awards

Each year at this time, we single out some of the world’s most captivating hideaway hotels and resorts for special recognition. To be initially considered for our annual awards competition, nominees must be relatively intimate in size and be located in truly peaceful and aesthetically pleasing surroundings.

Moreover, previous recipients are ineligible to repeat as award winners in successive years. Distinctive country house hotels and resorts compatible with these basic qualifications are then judged for their all-round comfort, non-commercial character and passionate commitment to personal service. Also taken into consideration: the recent firsthand guest experiences of ‘Hideaway Report’ readers.

Properties are not evaluated solely by means of a quantified checklist. During incognito inspections, of course, we note the general décor, design, cleanliness and upkeep of lodgings and public lounges; staffs are judged on esprit de corps, attentiveness, friendliness, thoroughness and efficiency; food on ingredients, inspiration and presentation; grounds on overall appearance and maintenance, and so on.

Ultimately, however, we rely on the ‘Q factor’ – the intangible summary impression that instinctively separates the good from the truly enchanting. Some of our award winners are grander than others, but each exudes an inviting sense of warmth and charm conducive to a relaxing stay.

Grasmere Lodge was also the Winner – Luxury Lodges, Boutique Hotels and Exclusive Retreats.

These awards were judged under the Baldrige international quality assessment programme. For any type of business, this system evaluates its overall business excellence in seven categories – leadership, strategic planning, customer and market focus, information and analysis, human resource focus, process management, and business results.

NZ Travel, based in Pennsylvania, has specialised in travel to New Zealand for the past 17 years. The agency is recommended by Andrew Harper's Hideaway Report, Conde Nast Traveler and Travel and Leisure magazines for their expertise and attention to detail in planning vacations in New Zealand. This award is based on the evaluations of its clients. Winners must have received Excellent ratings (the highest possible) from clients at least 90% of the time, with no Fair or Poor ratings.