2 Best Hotels in Hokianga and the Kauri Coast, Northland and the Bay of Islands

This 100-year-old kauri farmhouse and its buildings are a sophisticated and relaxing place to stay in the northern end of the North Island. Room decoration ranges from modern to rustic, but all come with plenty of space, natural light, and balconies or patios that look out over beautiful gardens to the Waipoua Forest in the distance. Meals are served from an à la carte menu with a focus on high-quality produce. You can stroll through the native bush on the property, or enjoy star-gazing while listening to the native morepork owl in the background. This lodge has a strong eco-friendly ethos and the hosts are extremely helpful. You can even take a self-paced cooking class that covers everything from how to choose knives to aging meat.

This harborside hotel looks onto a view that has not changed, according to legend, since the Polynesian navigator Kupe first arrived in New Zealand 1,000 plus years ago. The hotel has a low key warm atmosphere, switched-on staff, and comfortable rooms and villas for a more private two-person stay. The restaurant and bar are low key and cozy.