New Boutique Hotel in Bay of Islands

After a soft opening period, Bay of Islands Lodge is now officially open. The newest, luxury, boutique lodge to open in the Bay of Islands, the property is surrounded by native bush and overlooks the Veronica Channel between Paihia and historic Russell.

Owner-hosts Peter and Glennis Meier, who also own the award-winning Cliff Edge By The Sea Lodge, owned and operated for 19 years the renowned Casuarina Restaurant and Country Inn in Australia’s Hunter Valley Wine Country. For 18 of these years, Peter was also the Food Writer for The Sunday Telegraph in Australia. An exceptional chef, Peter won many awards in his Hunter Valley Casuarina days including The American Express Award for Best Restaurant In Hunter Valley in 1996, 1997, 1998 and then entering the Hall of Fame, and the Restaurant & Catering Association Best Restaurant in Hunter Valley for a number of years running at the end of the 1990s.

Peter’s cuisine is best described as ‘contemporary New Zealand’, drawing inspiration from European and Asian cuisines whilst utilising the best ingredients New Zealand has to offer. Locally caught fish feature prominently on the daily changing menu. Peter’s motto is, “The greatness of food lies in its simplicity”, and he comments, “The diversity of produce available in New Zealand is outstanding. We are fortunate enough to live in an area where the fish is plentiful and diverse. It is caught at 6am, delivered by noon and on the guest’s plate by 8pm”. An extensive selection of New Zealand and Australian wines complements the food.

Bay of Islands Lodge, set amidst native bush as far as they eye can see, enjoys panoramic views showcased by floor-to-ceiling windows which are a feature of the property. The design is contemporary throughout with a natural and earthy colour scheme offset by dark brown, leather furniture. Set on two levels, the entrance leads into the expansive, open plan kitchen, large lounge, dining room and deck. On the lower level, four, spacious, ensuite guest rooms, decorated in tonal colours which effectively bring the outside inside, are separated by an infinity pool and deck which look out over uninterrupted views towards Russell and The Bay of Islands. 

Rates start from NZ$580 per couple per night inclusive of GST and include accommodation, full cooked breakfast and open bar. Dinner is available at the property and is recommended. Dinner rates start from $95 per person including wine and GST.

For more information, visit www.bayofislandslodge.com or phone: + 64 9 402 6075 or [email protected] All domestic and international marketing is being managed by Navigate South which incorporates Navigate Publicity and Navigate Venues.