Top luxury experiences in Northland, New Zealand
Whether you are celebrating something special or simply treating yourself, Taitokerau Northland has incredible luxury offerings from world-class stays, to award-winning dining experiences, and exclusive and unique activities. Read on for five premium experiences to add your itinerary and experience Northland in style.
Stay at Eagles Nest in Russell
A stay at Eagles Nest is one of the most luxurious experiences you can have in Taitokerau Northland. Imagine five luxury villas, each tucked privately into a 75-acre estate just minutes from Russell township. Each villa is impeccably presented, complete with stunning views over the Bay of Islands, some with infinity pools and others with access to the property’s private beaches. A team of private chefs are available to craft unforgettable culinary experiences should you wish, and a nighttime guided walk to spot kiwi can be organised. Helicopters can land and depart directly, opening up options for exclusive excursions to some of Northland’s other incredible offerings!
Dining at Sage Restaurant at Paroa Bay Winery
One of only two Northland restaurants to be awarded One-Hat in the Cuisine Good Food Awards, a meal at Sage Restaurant is a luxury experience in itself. Chef Dan Fraser consistently picks up awards, presenting a broad menu that showcases local ingredients and onsite garden-grown produce. All dishes are thoughtfully matched to wines from their very own cellar door. Along with the outstanding food, the location of Sage Restaurant is unbeatable – think sweeping views over the vineyard, forest and into the Bay of Islands beyond.
A Cellar Door Long Lunch at The Landing
This luxury experience is not just about the wine and food – it's a 4.5 hour immersive journey into the history, location, and philosophy of the property too. Starting with a private boat transfer from Russell, Waitangi, or Paihia, the experience includes a full tour of historical sites of the property (this area was actually one of the earliest sites of settlement and trade in Aotearoa New Zealand) as well as a vineyard and winery tour. Followed by a two-course wine-matched meal, served alongside spectacular views, this is one of the top luxury experiences in the region.
A day trip through the islands with Silver Wave Yacht Charters
Any trip to the Bay of Islands should include a day on the water, and Silver Wave offers the ultimate luxury day out! A day charter includes exclusive use of one of their two luxury sailing catamarans, complete with captain and crew, and if you choose, a gourmet dining experience prepared by an onboard chef. The itinerary is tailored to your desires, be it a scenic sail, island stopover, or water activities. With so many islands and activities to choose from, every experience is unique and unforgettable.
A landing on Motukōkako with Salt Air
More commonly known as the Hole in the Rock island, Motukōkako marks the easternmost point of the Bay of Islands, and a landing on the island is one of the most incredible experiences you can do in the Bay of Islands. The scenic flight takes an extended route, covering the remote coastline on the eastern side of Cape Brett, as well as stunning views over the 144 islands of the Bay of Islands right up towards the Kerikeri inlet on the northern side of the Bay. Landing on the island is an exhilarating experience, and the views from the island are picturesque, including the iconic Cape Brett lighthouse and hut.