Helena Bay Lodge

The Sanctuary at Bay of Islands enjoys an idyllic location on Opua Hill, between Paihia and the small town of Opua. It is nestled among native bush and enjoys cliffside views out to Russell and the surrounding bays.

There are just four rooms at the Sanctuary, with private balconies and decorated in soft, earthy tones. The entire lodge is clad in cedar and blends seamlessly into the natural surroundings. The wood-burning fireplaces flanked by leather sofas provide a welcoming focus to the lodge and Maori weavings and local artwork are dotted throughout.

Guests can enjoy wholesome and hearty food during their stay at Sanctuary and fresh, locally sourced produce is at the heart of the lodge’s philosophy. There is lots to do while you’re here, so set aside some time to swim in the infinity pool, unwind with a massage treatment or take a yoga class.

Bright and comfortable, the rooms at Te Koha Lodge are contemporary and stylish. The wide decks offer views over golden beaches, rocky promontories and towards the Cavilli Islands.

It’s the perfect place from which to explore the Bay of Islands, but if all you want to do is relax, some rooms even allow you to enjoy the sunrise from the comfort of your bed.

Dinner at Te Koha also comes with a view, whether you choose to enjoy your meals at the dining table or out on the decks. Be it a romantic dinner for two, or a celebration with friends, tuck into fresh produce from a farmers market, with a panoramic view of Te Ngaere and Piapia bays.

Make the most of the beautiful scenery and soak up the sun or enjoy a picnic. The lodge’s garden features native and exotic plants, creating a fragrant home for a variety of birds.

Located within 6,000 acres near Matauri Bay, The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs enjoys uninterrupted views of  the Pacific Ocean and native forest.

22 suites are located within guest cottages dotted around the grounds, with each cottage housing two suites. Guests will have the feeling of staying in a private home, with a spacious bedroom and living area, open fireplace and oversized bath tub. There are suites specially designed for families that feature a large private balcony.

The Owner’s Cottage is perfect for families or groups with two en-suite bedrooms, each with their own fireplace, a living room and a beautiful private infinity pool and outdoor Jacuzzi.

In the main lodge you’ll find the dining room where chefs create a mouthwatering menu using locally sourced produce. Breakfast, pre-dinner drinks and dinner are all included with a stay at Kauri Cliffs. Guests can also choose to dine on the verandah overlooking the ocean, or enjoy a truly unique dining experience with a picnic on a secluded beach or by a waterfall.

A day spa is set within the native Totara Forest and there is a fitness centre with indoor lap pool and Jacuzzi, as well as an outdoor swimming pool and two tennis courts.

Set within a 75-acre estate on its own private ridgeline dropping into a valley is Eagle’s Nest, a collection of five luxury villas in the heart of the Bay of Islands.

Dotted along the peninsular and hidden among the native bush, each of the villas enjoy sweeping views across pristine landscape, the calm oceans waters and surrounding islands.

Contemporary in design, each villa offers plenty of indoor and outdoor space and four of the five come with their own private pools. With up to four bedrooms, the villas are perfect for families and groups while those looking for a secluded getaway will love the First Light Temple villa, an idyllic getaway for two.

The Bay of Islands is an outdoor lover’s dream with everything from fishing, kayaking and diving to mountain biking and helicopter rides on your doorstep. There is also the nearby town of Russell just a few minutes away, and a team of spa therapists offering in-room treatments for when you want to simply relax and unwind.