The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs

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.

Helena Bay Lodge is nestled in its cove in the top corner of New Zealand’s North Island, an intimate and exclusive luxury retreat backed by forest and looking out on its private length of coastline.

There are just five individual suites, each named after native birds, with balconies and views to the South Pacific Ocean. The two larger villas have their own fireplaces and bathtubs. Leica binoculars are provided for the opportunity to spot visiting whales and dolphins.

In the Main House, which forms a U-shape around the heated outdoor swimming pool, discover the owner’s eclectic artwork and treasures, which have been collected on travels around the globe, as well as a gym, sauna, library, lounge areas and an outdoor fire pit.

Dining here is a highlight, Helena Bay having tempted Head Chef Michele Martino from Italy’s Michelin-starred Ristorante Don Alfonso to create an incredible ‘estate to plate’ menu of lamb, beef and honey come from the on-site farm and home-grown organic vegetables, fruit and herbs.

Explore the Helena Bay Estate on hiking and cycling trails (two of the latest mountain bikes here feature assistive electric motors), nature walks and farm tours. Spend the day relaxing on the beach of take to the water paddle boarding, kayaking or spend some time fishing from the pontoon.

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.

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.