12 FIRST SHOT

Remote comforts in New Zealand.

Social distancing is the mantra of the moment, and few places are better equipped for that than Te Whare Ruruhau ( owhaoko.com; full board from US$1,164), a new wilderness cabin on almost 6,900 hectares of private Maori-owned land in the center of New Zealand’s North Island. With a name meaning “house of shelter,” the solar-powered hideout is only accessible by helicopter—guests are whisked there from Taupo Airport in 25 minutes flat. Built on native bushland traversed by streams and walking trails, it sleeps up to four people in two bedrooms, one clad entirely in glass for sublime stargazing from the comfort of your bed. All meals are cooked by a dedicated host, and there’s also the option to hire a guide for insights on Maori traditions and the rugged surroundings. But the real appeal lies in being able to completely disconnect from the outside world: there is no light pollution, no cellphone coverage, and not a single road in sight. Talk about back of beyond.