Dark Sky Villas

These villa twins are brazen view worshippers: they tilt their sleek modern chins to Tekapo's mountains, lake and star-rich skies. They were conceived of by Mairere Norman and partner Natasha Boyd (contenders for the loveliest people in Tekapo) who fled corporate jobs in Auckland to raise their young daughter, Isla, back in Mairere's gentle hometown.

The Dark Sky Villas are orientated to collect maximum morning sun and views, and the bean bags on the deck make for great stargazing thrones. They're location-lucky — tucked away in a quiet spot off the main drag and just a short stroll from the lakefront — and comfort-rich. [A young Insider's Guide associate found aquatic rapture in the shower pressure, exclaiming, “This is the best shower I've ever had. It's like having a pillow shot at you.”) The villas are also perfect for two families holidaying together who want both proximity and privacy. 28 Aorangi Crescent, Lake Tekapo. 022 319 8082, darkskyvillas.co.nz