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Around 130 miles north of Auckland, Northland sits at the northern tip of North Island. Its wine production may be small — largely from boutique vineyards — but it can lay claim to being New Zealand’s oldest wine-producing area; the first vines were planted in 1819. Vineyards are mainly around the Bay of Islands and on the west coast near Kaitaia. So, many of the best wine hotels in Northland make a great base for a sun and beach holiday too. Our hotel experts have scoured the area to bring you a collection of their favourite properties to base yourself at for a wine-focused break. Whether you want something right on the beach, a property on a private vineyard or something you could rent out in its entirety with friends — there is something to suit most tastes here. So why not browse through our collection to start planning your next break?
For luxury
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- The Landing Residences offers luxury accommodation in the vineyards of the Bay of Islands. The four, individually designed residences offer privacy and personalised service in a spectacular natural setting, with bespoke, chef-created menus and a private jetty for local exploring by boat. Luxury defined.
- Eagles Nest has five contemporary and opulent villas nestled on a private headland in the Bay of Islands. With private pools, saunas, gyms, kitchens, chefs, personal trainers and breathtaking views — you have it all here. The wine list is (unsurprisingly) also very good.
For a beach
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- If you want to combine wine-tasting with sunbathing, Paihia Beach Resort is a stone’s throw from one of the Bay of Island’s prettiest beaches. Light, contemporary style bedrooms have balconies or patios, plus there’s a spa, watersports and fishing trips on offer.
- Bay of Islands Beach House offers luxury self-catering apartments with fabulous views overlooking Sullivans Bay. With ensuite rooms, private balconies, direct beach access, and BBQ areas — this is ideal for a relaxing getaway,
For an eco stay
- With just 4 rooms, the Donkey Bay Inn is an exclusive and intimate seaside hideaway that has been producing wine for the last 100 years. The property casts an eco-conscious eye over its energy usage, and the living rooftop and gardens is a nice added touch. Interiors are bright and funky and the property even boasts its own private beach.
For groups
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- Te Whare Ma is a family-run boutique B&B offering just three rooms making it ideal to rent out in its entirety. The accommodation is simple and contemporary; sliding glass doors lead onto private terraces which overlook the large pool. With outdoor pursuits a-plenty and wine tours offered, there is plenty to do here.
- The Sanctuary @ Bay of Islands is another good option for small groups of friends. Here interiors are minimalist and light with picture windows letting the surrounds take centre stage. Homecooked food focuses on healthy dining paired with excellent wines. A luxurious yet laidback choice.
- The White House is a renovated heritage villa with just three rooms and all the comforts of home (think kitchen, laundry facilities, etc.). With a sociable outdoor area to sample local wines including a deck, bbq area, and a pool — this is ideal for groups.
Still not sure where to book?