Search the best hotels in Northland
About Northland
The North Island’s Northland is, unsurprisingly, the most northerly bit of New Zealand. It’s also the bit with some of the best weather and some of the best beaches. There are plenty of pristine and perfectly empty beaches here, but also plenty that have been well developed to cater for families on holidays or people who’re looking for some watery thrills and spills. The best places to stay in Northland range from family beach resorts to remote lodges in the lushly green and beautiful interior.
There are also a number of settlements in or on the Bay of Islands, but the best places to stay seem to be largely grouped around historic Russell or unspoiled and beach-y Paihia. The east coast of Northland has been a popular holiday destination for a long time, but the west coast is just starting to be appreciated. There isn’t a lot here apart from breathtaking coastal scenery and vast trees with trunks measuring eight metres around.
What Not To Miss
- The west coast has the Koutu and Wairere Boulders, a collection of vast basalt boulders, and the sand dunes of Hokianga.
- On this side you’ll find the spectacular ancient Tane Mahuta kauri tree forests lining the conveniently named Kauri Coast.
- There are plenty of nice townships and little ports along both coasts, but the centres are small and they’re more for refueling and passing through.
- Though there are lots of interesting little museums and interesting local histories to uncover as well as spectacular scenery to be admired.
- In the far north of Northland you’ll find the beautiful Bay of Islands, a superb turquoise bay dotted with around 150 islands, the vast majority of them undeveloped and uninhabited.
As with any popular beach destinations, the best places to stay in Northland can get exceptionally busy during the peak holiday periods, so get organised and book early.
For a remote escape
- The Wai Hou Oma Lodge is a luxury lodge set in seven acres of gardens and orchards, just minutes from the Kai Iwi Lakes which is a haven for watersports enthusiasts. There are four separate lodges each sleeping up to six people with kitchen and dining facilities. Breakfast is included and you can also have your meals prepared onsite for you.
- The Paradise View Coastal Lodge & Retreat sleeps six people and separate Keeper's Cottage which sleeps two with full kitchen, dining and laundry facilities. An in house chef prepares tailored menus using fresh ingredients grown on five acre property. With spa and outdoor salt water pool. Perfect for families and groups.
For romance
- At the very top of Northland is the Huntaway Lodge, a luxurious lodge with views of the Pacific, an outdoor spa and landscaped gardens. There’s an eco-element to the accommodation with ethically sourced food and local, organic toiletries etc..
- The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs is a country manor turned luxury hotel with spacious suites, walk in wardrobes, fireplaces and panoramic Pacific Ocean views. Pampering day spa in native Totara forest, tennis courts, infinity pool, private beaches and championship golf course. Ideal for a romantic getaway and local exploring.
For an apartment or beach house
- If you'd prefer your own space, don't hesitate to visit our online partner Booking.com for a variety of properties throughout the region.
Travel Information
- Fly to Auckland Airport located approximately 180km (111 miles) from Whangarei with a large range of International and Domestic connections - including to smaller airports in Northland.
- There are also a number of bus companies that operate to and from Northland, which can be great value for those on a budget.
- If you want to rent a car to explore the beautiful coasts and islands, for prices visit our online partner Rentalcars
- Best time to visit - the summer months from December to February typically provide warm weather, ideal for relaxing on the beaches or exploring the countryside.
Still not sure?
- Browse through our list of all the best places to stay in Northland
- Alternatively you can widen your search by checking out all our North Island recommendations.
- Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.
Weather
Monthly Weather in Northland
Best Hotels in Northland
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Old Oak Hotel Northland 6 rooms from £77
Local exploring - The Old Oak is a great base for exploring New Zealand's far north.Surfing - Surf in the crystal clear Pacific water off Taupo BayRestrictions on children - Children older than 8 are welcomeViews - Lovely harbour viewsRecommended by - Great Small HotelsA small boutique hotel offering an excellent lakeside location in Mangonui. Smart rooms are simply dressed with crisp white linen, large windows, contemporary bathrooms and the suites have kitchenettes. The charming hosts are on hand to give local advice. A great base for exploring the region. See More
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Wai Hou Oma Lodge Dargaville, Northland 5 rooms from £88
Great walks - 25 minutes to Ripiro Beach, NZs longest beachSights nearby - Matakohe Museum, Waipoua ForestLakeside - Minutes from Kai Iwi LakesLocal markets - Good for local colour.Luxury lodge set in 7 acres of gardens and orchards only minutes from water sport haven Kai Iwi Lakes. Four separate lodges sleeping up to 6 people, with kitchen and dining facilities. Breakfast included, and additional meals prepared with fresh produce such as vegetables grown on site. See More
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Huntaway Lodge Northland from £201
Views - Out to Pacific Ocean as far as Cavalli IslandsBirdwatching - Including native owl and tuiSwimming Pool - Outdoor infinity spa poolHideaway - Tranquil and intimate.Contemporary, bright, comfortable luxury Lodge with Pacific Ocean views to the Cavalli Islands. Food ethically sourced, seasonal and local, organic toiletries and commitment to sustainable practices. With outdoor spa pool and landscaped gardens. Great for a country escape. See More
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Paradise View Coastal Lodge & Retreat Northland from £731
Birdwatching - Species in area include dotterel, variable oystercatcher, reef heron and grey heronsGreat walks - Waipu Heritage Trail, Robert Hastie WalkwayOutstanding location - In Brynderwyn Hills overlooking Bream BaySwimming Pool - Salt water, ecologically friendlyLuxury Lodge sleeping six people and separate Keeper's Cottage sleeping two, with full kitchen, dining and laundry facilities. In house chef prepares tailored menus using fresh ingredients grown on five acre property. With spa and outdoor salt water pool. Perfect for families and groups. See More
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The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs Northland 23 rooms from £874
Views - 180 degree views of Pacific Ocean including Cape Brett and offshore Cavalli IslandsSpa - Day spa set in native Totara forestOn the beach - Three private beachesGreat walks - Guided nature walksRecommended by - Mr & Mrs SmithCountry manor turned luxury hotel with spacious suites, walk in wardrobes, fireplaces and panoramic Pacific Ocean views. Pampering day spa in native Totara forest, tennis courts, infinity pool, private beaches and championship golf course. Ideal for a romantic getaway and local exploring. See More
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Helena Bay Lodge Hikurangi, Northland 5 rooms from £1854
Beach Life - Set on the coast of North Island, with miles of private beach for guest-only use, book this hotel for an exclusive seaside breakRomantic Break - With luxurious private suites, spectacular grounds and a sleek spa, book this hotel for an indulgent romantic getawayActive Holiday - The grounds of this hotel allow for a wide range of activities, from fishing to hiking and divingFishing - Enjoy an afternoon by the water on the hotel's pontoon; the hotel can provide an extensive range of quality fishing equipmentThis intimate retreat is set in the northeast corner of New Zealand’s North Island. The hotel's luxury villas, named after native birds, look out onto the pristine coastline from private terraces and offer a cosy living space with a log fire. Complete the experience with a luxury helicopter tour. See More