The Ultimate Escape

Why New Zealand has become the hottest destination for thrill-seeking billionaires...

- Jared Paul Stern

When Condé Nast Traveller recently published an “illustrated guide to risking your life in New Zealand,” it was more incentive than deterrent. The magazine dubbed the remote island nation the adventure capital of the world, and though it has always appealed to rugged thrill seekers, lately it has attracted a wealthier sort of adventurer, equally drawn to some of the most dramatic, unspoiled and challenging terrain on the planet as to spectacular luxury lodges offering world-class accommodation.

Far off on its own in the Southwest Pacific, New Zealand is the perfect destination for travel via private jet, and lately the top chartering firms have seen an uptick in demand for travel to the country via ultra-long-range aircraft, like the Gulf stream G550, that have the ability to get well-heeled passengers there in comfort and style.