Description
The Helena Bay Lodge is located on a remote bay far away from the hustle and bustle of Whangarei. Here guests can experience the beauty of the Pacific on four private beaches, taste delicious Mediterranean cuisine prepared by an Italian chef, or simply unwind and watch the sunset over the Bay on a comfortable cushioned sun logger.
Location
Perfectly nestled on the northern coast of New Zealand’s North Island, Helena Bay Lodge lies on a tranquil and secluded bay. This serene coastline was placed on the list of 99 World’s Top Rated Coastlines, Islands, and Bays by the respectful National Geographic Magazine.
Wrapped in 800 acres of farmlands and forested valleys, the Helena Bay Lodge sandy beach provides the most mesmerizing views on the Pacific. Just 20 kilometers from the hotel lie the bewitching Poor Knights Islands which are listed as Unesco World Heritage Site. Guests can take a boat cruise to the islands, where the largest sea cave in the world is surrounded by rare fish species and dolphins. A 40-minute helicopter drive or a 3-hour drive from Auckland will take guests to Helena Bay Lodge’s blissfully remote hotel. If you’re into luxurious seclusion, it doesn’t get better than that.
Style and Character
The earthly colors of the Helena Bay Lodge match the mesmerizing views that surround this secluded property. Minimal yet luxurious design – that’s what you can expect in the generously sized rooms with breathtaking views of the Helena Bay beach and the South Pacific Ocean. A breath of warmth in the laid-back atmosphere comes from the numerous bold decorations, such as the bold Persian-style rugs and the grandiose crystal chandeliers.
Guests’ favorite pastime is enjoying a glass of pinot noir by the wood-burning fireplaces surrounded by cushioned sofas. Every room is decorated with unique artworks the hotel owners collected themselves from their travels around the globe, including a collection from the truly grandiose Miro.
Service and Facilities
What truly distinguishes Helena Bay Lodge from other hotels in New Zealand is that it has the capacity to house only 5 couples or a small group of people. This hotel’s policy guarantees excellent and attentive service where every guest’s need is fulfilled with attention.
The hotel boasts a glimmering 25-meter swimming pool surrounded by a unique collection of sculptures, a spa with a hammam and sauna, fitness center, and tennis courts. The spa’s architecture was inspired by Russian Banyas wrapped in mosaics imported from Italy. Here guests can enjoy a relaxing treatment and unwind while watching a sunset behind the Bay.
For guests that need something a bit more exhilarating there’s diving, kayaking, fishing, and paddle-boarding – the Helena Lodge guarantees exciting times at four private beaches by the Pacific.
Rooms
Named after rare New Zealand birds, the 5 individual villas at Helena Bay Lodge boast modern luxury accommodation and vast balconies, with views overlooking Helena Bay’s private beaches. With hand-made linens imported from Europe, high-quality wood, and king-sized beds, to say that comfort is guaranteed would be an understatement.
All suites feature full air-conditioning, dressing rooms, walk-in showers, a minibar, and a Nespresso machine. Guests have access to Netflix and movie channels.
Kiwi and Kotare are the most luxurious suites at the hotel equipped with a separate living room and a log-burning fireplace. Every room is conveniently equipped with Leica binoculars so guests have a close view of the rare bird species, dolphins, and whales that regularly visit Helena Bay.
Food and Drink
At the Helena Bay Lodge, guests are in the capable hands of chef Michele Martino who has worked in the Michelin starred Ristorante Del Alfonso. Guests have the opportunity to experience “estate to plate” cuisine or be constantly surprised by the menu which is continuously changing, directed by Martino’s enthusiasm for Mediterranean gastronomy. The fish and shellfish are always fresh and the Wagyu and lamb come from the hotel’s private farm.
Guests have the option to choose their dining venue – whether that’s a poolside lunch or a picnic at the private beach, the staff follows every guest’s wish. The hotel boasts a wine cellar with 1200 carefully selected bottles of wine which pair perfectly with the delicate cuisine served at Helena Bay Lodge’s dining venues.
Value for Money
The prices at the Helena Bay Lodge are in line with the opulent accommodation that this hotel guarantees. The prices of the individual suites start at NZ$1,550 and can go up to NZ$2,100 in high-season. Breakfast and pre-dinner drinks are included.
Hotel FAQ
- Does Helena Bay Lodge have an airport shuttle?Yes, the Helena Bay Lodge provides guests with an airport shuttle.
- Is parking available at Helena Bay Lodge?Yes, free parking is available for guests.
- Are there opportunities to exercise at Helena Bay Lodge?Yes, guests are provided with tennis courts, a pool, and a gym
- What food & drink options are available at Helena Bay Lodge?The Helena Bay Lodge has on-site restaurants where guests are provided with free breakfast and specialties are prepared by the chef Michele Martino.
- Which room amenities are available at Helena Bay Lodge?Every room at the Helena Bay Lodge is equipped with a minibar, full air-conditioning, Nespresso machine, and free Wi-fi.
- Is the private beach at Helena Bay Lodge near the property?Yes, all four private beaches are footsteps away from the hotel.
- When is the best time to visit the Helena Bay Lodge?The best period to visit the Helena Bay Lodge is from December to March.
- Which is the nearest airport to the Helena Bay Lodge?The Bay of Islands Airport is 81km away from the hotel.
- Access with Guests with Disabilities?The Helena Bay Lodge features one wheel-chair accessible room and removable ramps.
- Family-friendly?The Helena Bay Lodge is not a family-friendly hotel. Children can stay at The Helena Bay Lodge only if the guests book the entire property.
Review by Luxury Family
A family of 4; mum, dad, 1 month old and 5-year-old daughter. We struggled to find luxury travel to accommodate our little family. So we decided to start documenting our hotel visits.
Updated Jul 17, 2022