Where to Stay in Pēwhairangi-Bay of Islands

Finding the right place to stay can make all the difference in how much you enjoy your time in Pēwhairangi – Bay of Islands. Whether you’re after heritage charm, seaside luxury, family-friendly comfort, or a peaceful nature escape, there’s something here for every style of traveller.

When booking, we usually start with Trip.com — it’s easy to use and covers everything from budget motels to boutique stays. We also check Tripadvisor for reviews and side-by-side comparisons, and Booking.com is handy for comparing prices across multiple platforms. Between them, you’ll get a clear picture of what’s available and what might suit your travel style best.

🛏️ Find Bay of Islands Accommodation on Trip.com
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🏨 Duke of Marlborough Hotel – Kororāreka (Russell)

Historic charm with modern comfort. This iconic waterfront hotel has been welcoming guests since 1827, making it the oldest licensed hotel in Aotearoa – New Zealand. Overlooking the Russell waterfront, it blends colonial heritage with contemporary style, offering travellers a memorable mix of history, comfort and seaside elegance.

Features & Amenities:

• Rooms & Suites: A choice of heritage rooms with period charm or modern, refurbished suites with private balconies and harbour views. All rooms include WiFi, air conditioning, tea/coffee facilities and quality bedding.
• On-site Dining: The Duke’s award-winning restaurant and bar serves fresh seafood, seasonal Northland produce and fine wines. Diners enjoy both indoor elegance and outdoor terrace seating with panoramic bay views.
• Events & Weddings: The Duke is also a sought-after venue for weddings and conferences, thanks to its historic character and prime setting.
• Extras: Free parking, WiFi throughout and proximity to Russell Museum, art galleries and ferry connections.

Why Stay Here:

Located within walking distance of Russell’s cafés, shops and historic sites, making it an easy and charming base.

Step straight out onto the waterfront boardwalk and watch yachts moored in the bay.

Perfect for travellers who appreciate heritage stories, yet don’t want to compromise on comfort.

🌊 Paihia Pacific Resort Hotel – Paihia

Relaxation meets luxury. Just steps from the golden sands of Paihia Beach, this boutique resort offers a refined stay in the heart of the Bay of Islands. Guests enjoy spacious rooms with private balconies, spa baths and sweeping ocean views, all designed to create a calming, luxurious retreat.

Features & Amenities:

• Rooms & Suites: Modern, stylish and designed for comfort. Many include kitchenettes, open-plan living and large balconies overlooking the bay.
• Provenir Restaurant & Bar: Known for its fine dining, Provenir showcases fresh local produce and seafood paired with an excellent wine list. The restaurant’s elegant yet relaxed setting makes it a favourite for both guests and visitors.
• La Spa Naturale: On-site day spa offering indulgent treatments, including massages, facials and body therapies — perfect after a day of exploring.
• Outdoor Facilities: Heated saltwater pool, sun loungers and spa pool, all overlooking the waterfront.
• Extras: Free WiFi, parking, and attentive service from staff who specialise in creating a stress-free environment.

Why Stay Here:

Perfect balance of luxury and relaxation, with everything you need on-site to completely unwind.

Ideal for couples, solo travellers or anyone craving a romantic or indulgent break.

Central Paihia location with easy access to the wharf, restaurants and tours.

👨‍👩‍👧 Copthorne Hotel & Resort – Waitangi

Family-friendly with epic views. Nestled right beside the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, this resort-style hotel offers a blend of comfort, convenience and location. With sweeping views over the Bay of Islands, direct access to the beach and plenty of on-site facilities, it’s a favourite for families, groups and travellers who want everything close at hand.

Features & Amenities:

• Rooms & Suites: Comfortable and spacious rooms, many with balconies or patios overlooking the bay or hotel gardens. Options range from standard rooms to family suites.
• Dining: On-site restaurant and bar featuring fresh local seafood, buffet breakfasts and relaxed evening meals with panoramic views.
• Leisure Facilities: Outdoor swimming pool, tennis courts, and landscaped gardens perfect for unwinding after a day’s exploring.
• Family-Friendly Perks: Plenty of room for kids to play, interconnecting rooms and easy beach access.
• Extras: Free parking, WiFi (limited in some areas), tour desk for booking cruises and local activities.

Why Stay Here:

Easy access to water-based adventures from Paihia Wharf, just a short drive or walk across the bridge.

Perfect for families or groups who want space, amenities and a resort feel.

Located within walking distance of the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, combining history and culture with relaxation.

🌿 The Sanctuary @ Bay of Islands – Opua

A peaceful, adults-only escape. Tucked into the hillside above Ōpua, this luxury eco-lodge is designed with tranquillity in mind. Overlooking native bush and the sparkling waters of the bay, it offers a setting that feels both secluded and indulgent.

Features & Amenities:

• Adults-Only Rooms: Spacious, contemporary suites with private balconies, floor-to-ceiling windows and elegant décor. Each suite is designed to maximise privacy and showcase the views.
• Dining: Guests enjoy gourmet breakfasts served daily, often highlighting local produce. Evening dining can be arranged with advance notice.
• Eco-Friendly Design: Built with sustainability in mind, the lodge incorporates natural materials and operates with a strong eco-conscious ethos.
• Outdoor Living: Terraces and common areas overlook the bay, perfect for sunset drinks or quiet reflection.
• Extras: Complimentary WiFi, boutique service with personal touches and the option to arrange in-room spa treatments.

Why Stay Here:

A perfect choice for travellers who value eco-luxury and want a retreat from the busier hubs of Paihia and Russell.

Ideal for couples seeking romance, privacy and a slower pace.

Located just minutes from the Ōpua marina and ferry terminal, yet far enough to feel worlds away.

⛺ Waitangi Holiday Park – Waitangi

Simple, scenic and central. Just a short walk from the Waitangi Treaty Grounds and across the bridge from Paihia, the Waitangi Holiday Park is a favourite with campervan travellers, backpackers and families. With its riverside setting, spacious sites and relaxed atmosphere, it’s one of the most convenient campgrounds in the Bay of Islands.

Features & Amenities:

• Accommodation: Powered and non-powered sites for campervans and tents, plus cabins for those who prefer a roof over their heads.
• Facilities: Shared kitchen, BBQ area, laundry, bathrooms and WiFi.
• Location: Easy walking distance to Paihia town centre, Paihia Wharf and the Waitangi Treaty Grounds.
• Extras: Pet-friendly (by arrangement), and plenty of grassy areas to spread out.

Why Stay Here:

Perfect for road trippers or budget-conscious travellers who still want easy access to tours, cafés and attractions.

Unbeatable location if you want to be close to both Paihia and the Treaty Grounds.

Affordable and family-friendly with all the essentials for a comfortable stay.