Luxury retreats in Northland blend history and elegance with stunning views

Rosewood Kauri Cliffs offers a world-renowned golf course with views of the Pacific Ocean, one of many luxury getaways in Northland.

With panoramic ocean views, gourmet cuisine inspired by the land and experiences that honour local traditions, Northland’s luxury lodgings offer a rare glimpse into how the other half lives.

Northland is home to a variety of attractions and natural beauty and holds a rich history. It was recently listed on National Geographic’s Best of the World list for 2025, which features must-see destinations, handpicked by National Geographic’s explorers, photographers, and editors across the world.

While Northland has numerous places to see and things to do, it is also home to some of the country’s most luxurious escapes. From the cultural depth of The Landing to the secluded elegance of Kauri Cliffs, these world-class venues are among many in the north that redefine luxury with experiences that marry luxury and authenticity.

The Landing

The Landing in the Bay of Islands is one of the world’s great beauty spots, offering a landscape of dazzling ocean views, rolling green hills, rugged native bush and island-dotted coast.

The Landing offers a premium experience through four residences nestled in coastal scenery.

Head of marketing Rochelle Gray said it resonates with history.

“The Landing takes its name from being the landing place where Māori and European settlers first met, exchanged cultures and created a new nation, making it one of New Zealand’s most culturally and historically significant sites.

“Its development and operation have been led by an approach centred on long-term ownership and kaitiakitanga [guardianship].

“Management maintains a constructive relationship with the local Ngāti Torehina hapū, consulting them on significant matters and adhering to a Cultural Management Plan regarding land use and operations.”

Bay of Islands luxury retreat The Landing, on Purerua Peninsula.

The Landing has been regenerated as a unique heritage, conservation and lifestyle property which features more than 400ha of farmland, beaches, native bush, bird sanctuaries and 43 protected historic sites.

The Landing Residences are a group of four spectacular private accommodations that offer guests the chance to immerse themselves in a unique place, in superb comfort, and enjoy the finest New Zealand hospitality.

Rates start at $4900 per night and go up to $24,500 – with a minimum two-night stay.

Gray said the majority of guests come from the US.

Eagles Nest

Eagles Nest is an award-winning villa retreat in the beautiful Bay of Islands.

The design and furnishings are of an eclectic contemporary style, and its 30ha gardens and lodgings blend into the natural topography and foliage.

Native trees, ferns, grasses and flaxes, combined with stunning subtropical exotics complement the natural beauty of the property which is within walking distance of the historic village and birthplace of New Zealand – Kororāreka/Russell.

With rates starting from $1795 per night during the winter months and going up to over $14,000 in busier seasons Eagles Nest sees a mix of international and local guests.

Furnished in an eclectic contemporary style, Eagles Nest is within walking distance of the historic village of Kororāreka / Russell, the birthplace of New Zealand. Photo / Duncan Innes

Eagles Nest general manager Adam Howard said Northland’s people, culture and environment inspired all the elements of a guest’s stay.

For example, the honey served in the villa comes from the accommodation’s own bee hives.

“It is a romantic hideaway for couples. Our larger villas are a place for families to reconnect and celebrate milestones.”

Howard said the Eagles Nest team had three generations of family – the oldest of whom grew up on the land where the luxury site sits.

“That connection is very important to us as a team who are predominantly long-serving employees, born and raised in Northland.”

Eagles Nest offers a variety of luxury villas. Photo / Duncan Innes

Howard said feedback often spoke of the location’s beauty and tranquillity, and it being a place for relaxation and seclusion.

“It’s a privilege to showcase all the incredible things Northland has to offer to our guests.”

Rosewood Kauri Cliffs

Rosewood Kauri Cliffs offers an extraordinary luxury experience in the Bay of Islands.

Located on more than 2000ha, it is surrounded by dramatic cliffs, three private beaches, and a world-renowned golf course.

Rosewood Kauri Cliffs boasts stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the Cavalli Islands.

Rosewood Kauri Cliffs offers an extraordinary luxury experience in the Bay of Islands.

Guests can unwind and rejuvenate using the spa, two pools, fitness centre, and recreation courts.

Bespoke experiences such as private beach barbecues and cultural heritage tours add to the allure.

Rosewood Kauri Cliffs managing director Stephane Massarini said local culture and heritage were incorporated into the cultural heritage tour.

Guests were guided through the property’s cultural history.

“We have an ATV Back Country Tour, which is the ideal way to discover the property’s diverse natural landscape and also an extensive network of walking trails.”

A stay in a suite will cost you from $2520 + GST per night and there is a minimum two-night stay.

Massarini said Kauri Cliffs is perfect for multi-generational families as there are three luxurious four-bedroom villas for complete privacy and comfort.

“Kauri Cliffs is most known for its three private beaches, a world-class golf course, authentic on-site Māori cultural experiences and seasonal dining with a focus on locally sourced ingredients.”

The entrance to Kauri Cliffs.

Massarini said many guests appreciated the peaceful atmosphere and connection to nature.

“Guests frequently mention the tranquillity of Rosewood Kauri Cliffs, appreciating the slow-paced environment that allows them to fully relax and escape from the pressures of daily life.”