First Light, Eagles Nest

For couples, the Bay of Islands offers a remarkable range of experiences, all at whatever pace you choose. Sail between the islands on a private charter. Cruise out to watch dolphins play in the wake. Kayak to a secluded beach and spend the afternoon doing nothing at all. Explore Russell on foot, its heritage waterfront, its boutique stores, the oldest surviving church in New Zealand — or venture inland to the ancient Waipoua kauri forest for an encounter with trees that were old before the first Europeans arrived. And when the day is done, return to First Light, where the Bay of Islands stretches before you and the jacuzzi is warm and waiting.

Eagles Nest sits on its own private 75-acre estate above Russell, counted among New Zealand’s finest luxury retreats: Michelin Key recipient, Qualmark Gold Sustainable Tourism certified, and Virtuoso affiliated.

The Villa

First Light is a masterpiece of considered design - a place where every detail has been thought through not for show, but for the profound pleasure of the two people inside it. The architecture is open and light-saturated, with bi-folding glass walls that dissolve the boundary between the sun-drenched interior and the balcony beyond. A louvred skylight above the mezzanine bedroom invites the stars in at night. A floor-to-ceiling glass shower frames a native bush view. There is a reason people who stay here struggle to describe it without reaching for the word perfect.

The mezzanine bedroom with its dedicated ensuite sits above a beautifully appointed open-plan living and kitchen space, fully equipped gourmet kitchen, Bose soundbar, smart TV and original New Zealand artworks included, which flows seamlessly out onto a generous sunlit balcony with views across the Bay. Both indoor and outdoor fireplaces add warmth and atmosphere as the evening draws in. And a short pathway leads through the native bush to the private jacuzzi: a moment of complete seclusion that is, for many guests, the highlight of the entire stay.

Enjoy champagne on arrival, 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 and chauffeur, can be arranged for a stay as attended or as private as you wish. Private access to the Eagles Nest private beach is included throughout.

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