Helena Bay Lodge

Helena Bay Lodge has a stunning beachfront setting in a private corner of the North Island, 40km north of Whangerei and a 40-minute super-fast and super-scenic flight from Auckland onboard the lodge’s own helicopter.

The lodge’s architecture takes its inspiration from early European buildings such as the Treaty House in Waitangi, and uses local Northland materials, including stone with fragments of ancient coral. The rooms feature eclectic artworks, collected by the owners during their travels around the world. There are five waterfront suites comprising of two Villa Suites and three Junior Suites.

The luxurious interiors feature super-king beds, separate living areas, fireplaces and bathrooms with mosaic tiling. Take in the views over the beach and the South Pacific from your spacious balcony (with binoculars provided for spotting birds, whales and dolphins).

Enjoy the ‘estate to plate’ cuisine at Helena Bay Lodge at the Michelin-starred Ristorante Don Alfonso, with delicious Mediterranean menus that change daily, and showcase seasonal produce grown on the estate. Why not have a picnic lunch on one of the private beaches or by the pool, enjoying the beautiful grounds while spending some quality time outdoors. In the evening, enjoy a candlelit dinner by the fireplace or an al fresco meal on the terrace, overlooking the sea.

As well as an impressive 25-metre pool, there is a truly magnificent spa, including a sauna and a massage room, designed in the style of a traditional Russian Banya (bathhouse). There’s also a library, attractive lounge areas and an outdoor fire pit to relax around in the evenings. 

There are hiking and biking trails leading around the coastal headlands, which will reward you with stunning views, and you can also take the trails through the bush down to secluded golden sand beaches or go horse riding. Enjoy access to 800 acres of privately owned land and 4.5km of privately-owned coastline including four beaches, and visit the Poor Knights Islands, which are justifiably popular with divers.

Meet the alpacas, donkeys and cattle on the farm, and explore the Maori Pa sites that are dotted around the coastline. On the beach, go fossicking in the seawater rock pools, on the water, go paddle boarding or kayaking, or up in the air, enjoy a bird's eye view of the natural surroundings on a private helicopter tour - the hotel has its very own Augusta Westland AW109S Grand helicopter. Also, General Manager Neil McFarlane (captain of one of the top 50 super yachts of the world) offers a yacht service to guests.