Eagles Spirit, Eagles Nest

From Eagle Spirit’s hillside position, the Waitangi Treaty Grounds are visible across the water — a quietly extraordinary thing to see from your morning coffee. The Bay of Islands itself unfolds as an endlessly rewarding playground: sailing between the islands, fishing in some of New Zealand’s finest deep-sea waters, dolphin-watching cruises, kayaking, island-hopping by water taxi, or simply losing the afternoon on a secluded beach. Russell’s waterfront is a short stroll away, and the wider Northland region — from the ancient kauri forests of Waipoua to the sweeping dunes of Te Paki — invites longer exploration.

Eagles Nest sits on its own private 75-acre estate above Russell, one of the most awarded luxury retreats in New Zealand. Michelin Key recipient, Qualmark Gold Sustainable Tourism certified, and Virtuoso member, it is a place where world-class hospitality and genuine New Zealand warmth are woven into every detail.

The Villa

Eagle Spirit is the most serene and intimate of the Eagles Nest villas — a sun-drenched retreat that sits gently into the hillside, opening wide to the Bay of Islands below. Its name captures its spirit well: there is something of the eagle’s ease about staying here, the sense of watching the world from a place of perfect calm.

Three well-proportioned bedrooms, each with a king bed (convertible to twin kings on request) and a dedicated ensuite, make Eagle Spirit ideal for up to six guests, whether that’s three couples seeking a shared escape, a family, or simply a group who appreciates having space to breathe. Throughout, the interiors reflect Eagles Nest’s signature aesthetic: original New Zealand artworks, a fully equipped gourmet kitchen, Bose soundbar, smart TV, and quality finishes that feel elevated without ever feeling stiff. The living and dining spaces flow seamlessly onto granite balconies framed by lush native landscaping, where the only soundtrack is birdsong and the distant rhythm of the sea.

Outside, a heated infinity pool overlooks the Bay, perfect to sink into at sunset. A jacuzzi completes the outdoor offering, and private beach access ensures the full Eagle Nest estate is at your disposal throughout your stay.

Arrive to champagne, daily gourmet breakfast provisions, a fresh seasonal fruit platter replenished each day, daily villa servicing and Wi-Fi. A minibar is stocked and ready. Optional additional services, personal chef, butler, beauty and massage therapists, personal trainer, chauffeur and catering, can be arranged to tailor the stay precisely to your preferences.

The Experience

Eagles Spirit leans into relaxed stays - mornings of coffee and birdsong on the balcony as mist lifts off the Bay. Long, lazy laps of the infinity pool. Afternoons exploring Russell on foot or by water. Evenings spent in the jacuzzi watching the sun drop into the Pacific.

For those who want to venture further, Eagles Nest’s concierge can arrange scenic helicopter flights over the Northland coastline, guided fishing charters, dolphin-watching cruises, private beach picnics on a remote island, or a guided kiwi walk on the estate at dusk — where the North Island Brown Kiwi can sometimes be heard calling across the native bush. Each villa at Eagles Nest includes a Kiwi Kit with red-light torches, a quietly magical detail that speaks to the care and thoughtfulness built into every aspect of the Eagles Nest experience.

That care extends to the land itself. Eagles Nest NZ holds Qualmark Gold sustainable tourism certification, has planted over 20,000 native trees across the estate, maintains 40 on-site beehives producing the honey you’ll find in your kitchen, and operates entirely without chemical sprays, a commitment to the environment that ensures this extraordinary slice of Northland remains intact for generations to come.

Season dates, rates and minimum night stay requirements may apply. Please contact one of our team for accurate availability and quotes.