6 Best Hotels in Coromandel and the Bay of Plenty, New Zealand

This private lodge perched on a busy hillside just out of Coromandel Town has great views across the Hauraki Gulf. Bedrooms and bathrooms are minimalist in design, with huge windows and balconies with spectacular views of the surrounding native trees and countryside. Breakfasts are a delight, and the cozy library nook and "help yourself" fruit orchard add to the experience. There's even a small gift shop stocked with local art.  The deluxe double room is special. Its giant tub set beside an enormous window makes you feel as if you're bathing in the middle of the forest.

This lodge on 6 acres of manicured gardens and vineyards is an outstanding example of the boutique home-hosted properties in this region. There are two suites, the Merlot Room (private balcony, en suite with double shower) and the Cabernet Suite (large patio with hot tub, en suite with double shower). Both have a complimentary minibar, big windows, and grand views. You could putter on the driving range, work-out in the gym, enjoy the hot tub, or order up a massage. Breakfast is included, while an optional dinner is worth staying in for; don't forget to take advantage of the excellent wine cellar.

Rain-forest retreat describes this place well: four stylish double rooms and one two-bedroom apartment are nestled on a 15-acre property with native forest, bushwalks, streams, and hidden swimming holes for your enjoyment. You can warm up in the outdoor hot tub or enjoy a private balcony bath high above a ravine. At night, listen for the call of ruru, the native morepork. Continental breakfast is included, otherwise it’s self-catering in the conservatory kitchen and dining area. Whitianga is just 15 minutes—yet another world—away.

You can step out of this tiny, family-run property's garden onto a breathtaking beach. There's no road, just the pohutukawa trees come between your room and the sand. The downstairs rooms claim the best beach access, but great views and the most sun are upstairs. Either way, seven of the eight rooms have beach views. The rooms are simple but stylish. Outside there's a garden, self-catering barbecue, and a hot tub. Sports equipment, including kayaks and body boards, is available at no extra charge. These are the only accommodations in Whitianga that sit right on the beach. There is one wheelchair-accessible unit.

Looking out over Whangamata and the islands in its harbor from your hillside suite, you'll feel rested and pampered, especially after being greeted with fresh flowers. The lodge suites are spacious, with an open plan lounge and bedroom, en suites, and great ocean views. The large gardens feature a refreshing pool for the warmer months.

Stylish studio suites or one-bedroom units overlook the beach here. Each comes with floor-to-ceiling sliding-glass doors that showcase unobstructed views of Mercury Bay. The executive studio suites feature double whirlpools. All have kitchenettes—cooktops, microwave, and refrigerator. Most units have their own patios, and all are located just a stroll across the street from the beach. Guest barbecue, Wi-Fi, kayaks, laundry, and secure parking are added features.