Seeking the perfect place to relax and unwind in style? Look no further than New Zealand’s North Island to discover luxurious accommodation gems that are designed to delight. From winterless Island escapes to historic sheep farms turned grand country estates, there is something for all tastes.
North Island Luxury Accommodation
Boasting comfort, culture, and scenery galore, the North Island of New Zealand certainly delivers some of the best boutique lodge stays in the country. From secluded white sand beaches and emerald coves of the Bay of Islands to the lively Maori heritage of Rotorua and the rolling orchards and vineyards of the gorgeous Hawke’s Bay, it is easy to find your perfect escape.
The First Light Travel team of connoisseurs has assembled their top recommendations for luxurious getaways right here, especially for you.
Russell, Bay of Islands
Situated right in the centre of the 144 islands which give the Northland bay its name, the historic township of Russell is the ideal launchpad from which to explore the wealth of scenery. The picturesque area is made up of some of New Zealand’s most significant buildings dating back to the 1800s, so take a stroll and enjoy the Victorian architecture. Alternatively, hop on a boat to meet the local marine life including dolphins, whales and seabirds.
Paroa Bay Winery and Estate
Paroa Bay Winery and Estate is located in a sheltered inlet with staggering views across the bright blue waters of the Bay of Islands. The luxury villas are nestled amongst a boutique vineyard and sprawling bushland giving you the chance to wake up to the sound of native birdsong. With a stay here you can enjoy your own private pool, sauna and hot tub alongside a gourmet kitchen and BBQ area - ideal for entertaining. If that is not enough, you can also indulge at the estate’s world-class restaurant, which sources fresh ingredients from local artisans and their on-site gardens to offer a menu inspired by the Whenua (land) and Moana (sea).
See Paroa Bay’s Facilities Here
Enjoy a luxurious upgrade to Paroa Bay during your Bay of Islands stay on our 8 Day Northern Discovery Self Drive Tour
Rotorua, Bay of Plenty
Best known for its Maori culture and geothermal activity, Rotorua and the surrounding area is a landscape like no other. With bubbling mud and hot pools, explosive geysers and tranquil lakes, it is easy to find something to calm or enliven the senses. Rotorua is a great base for exploring the surrounding Bay of Plenty, including the stunning Lake Tarawera Scenic Reserve. Here the majestic Mount Tarawera rises above a landscape of popular walking tracks exploring cascading waterfalls and lush bushland.
Solitaire Lodge
Wake up to panoramic views of Lake Tarawera and Mount Tarawera in any of the 9 luxurious suites at Solitaire Lodge. Freestanding baths also offer the opportunity to soak away your day while enjoying the lakeside views. The full-board experience means everything is taken care of, from a complimentary mini-bar and pre-dinner drinks and canapés to five-course dinners, full country breakfasts and light lunches. You could choose to take the Lodge’s dinghies and kayaks for a leisurely paddle or enjoy the other premium activities on offer including local thermal pools or rainbow trout fishing expeditions.
See Solitaire Lodge’s Facilities Here
First-class accommodations make up the agenda on our 9 Day New Zealand Northern Escape Luxury Self Drive Tour including two nights at the gorgeous Solitaire Lodge
Waiheke Island
Only 35 minutes by ferry from central Auckland lies a quiet paradise favoured by artists, the rich and famous, and those who seek high-end escapes paired with the simple joys of island living. A jewel in the crown of Auckland’s Hauraki Gulf, Waiheke Island offers visitors award-winning wineries, pristine beaches, and gastronomic delights.
Delamore Lodge
Designed to be at one with the cliffside on which it was built, Delamore Lodge is a luxury lodge and spa with commanding views over the beautiful Owhanake Bay. Each suite and apartment enjoys its own private courtyard, Californian king or Superking beds with fluffy pillows, and walls adorned with international and indigenous New Zealand artworks and crafts. The heated infinity pool welcomes you with incredible vistas across the Hauraki Gulf and a friendly team of therapists are on hand to help you choose the perfect spa treatment.
See Delamore Lodge’s Facilities Here
Treat yourself to some extra pampering with an upgraded stay at Delamore Lodge while experiencing island life on our 9 Day Relaxing New Zealand Journey - the North Island
Hawke’s Bay
Known as New Zealand’s food and wine country, the sun-drenched Hawke’s Bay offers visitors a range of the finest wineries and cideries, lush orchards laden with seasonal produce, quaint farmers markets plus the splendid Art Deco architecture and cultural heritage of Napier. The famed Cape Kidnappers peninsula is a must-see while in the area, its rugged east coast shores are home to one of the largest mainland gannet colonies in the world.
Greenhill Lodge
With a maximum of 12 guests, Greenhill Lodge provides the epitome of customer service. Surrounded by farmland located less than 30 minutes from Napier, this historic homestead property offers the ultimate haven of calm and beauty - even selected by Queen Elizabeth for her stay during a royal visit. Sink into a bubble bath of Molton Brown products and sip a glass of local wine or enjoy an al fresco breakfast and bask in the Hawke’s Bay sunshine on your private veranda overlooking the expansive gardens. Try your hand at a game in the billiards room or get comfortable with a book in front of the log fire in the lodge’s cosy sitting room.
See Greenhill Lodge’s Facilities Here
Customise your overnight in the Hawke’s Bay on our 8 Day North Island Culture and Heritage Tour with a stay at Greenhill Lodge.
Wairarapa
The Wairarapa region is a lesser-visited treasure of the north island, only a short drive north of Wellington you will find yourself amid gorgeous small towns bursting with vintage stores, boutique retailers and incredible restaurants. Featherston is the only booktown in Aotearoa so head along the high street to peruse the shelves and make sure you don’t skip the artisan cheese deli and taste the local handmade fare. Greytown and Martinborough lie further east and these picturesque centres are not to be missed. Why not stop in at one of the small family-run wineries and taste their limited edition vintages along with a leisurely lunch.
Wharekauhau Country Estate
The ultimate lavish farm stay awaits you at the spectacular Wharekauhau Country Estate. The opulent Edwardian lodge celebrates its rich history as a sheep station dating back to the 1840s and is the perfect mix of grandeur and intimacy. Set atop a hillside overlooking the glorious Pallister Bay you will find awe-inspiring views of the Pacific Ocean from your cottage suite. Light soaked rooms furnished with the finest linens and heated marble floors, you may never want to leave. However, if you do venture out you will be welcomed by an array of outdoor activities on their 3000 acres of ancient forests, pastures and lakes.
See Wharekauhau Country Estate’s Facilities Here
Wharekauhau Country Estate is a feature stay on our incredible 14 Day Luxury Lodges of New Zealand - North Island Tour
Like what you see...
Did one of these North Island luxury lodges tickle your fancy or are you looking for something different? These are only a few of the countless luxury hotels on the North Island you can choose from. Talk to our team today to help find the right lodge for you or have a look at our North Island itinerary suggestions.
See Our: South Island Luxury Accommodation Blog
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