The Eyrie, Eagles Nest

For visitors, the Bay of Islands is as much about active discovery as it is about rest and reflection. Sailing and deep-sea fishing draw enthusiasts from around the world, while dolphin-watching cruises, kayaking and island-hopping by water taxi open up a marine playground of remarkable diversity. Inland, the ancient Waipoua Forest and its towering kauri trees offer a profound encounter with New Zealand’s primeval landscape. And through it all, the Far North’s warm subtropical climate invites a pace of life that is slow, generous and deeply restorative.

Eagles Nest sits above Russell on its own 75-acre private estate, occupying a commanding ridgeline with panoramic views that sweep across the Bay. It is one of the most awarded luxury retreats in New Zealand, a Michelin Key recipient, Qualmark Gold certified, and Virtuoso member, and the standard of care here is matched only by the extraordinary setting.

The Villa

The Eyrie is the most intimate of the Eagles Nest villas, designed with a clear philosophy: to blur the line between inside and out, and to place its guests entirely within the landscape. Its name is apt, this is a nest above the world, where the architecture opens wide onto viewing platforms that capture every shift in the seascape, every movement of light across the water, every star-filled Northland sky.

Three generously proportioned bedrooms, each with a dedicated ensuite, provide a comfortable and private retreat for up to six guests, making The Eyrie equally suited to couples seeking seclusion, families on holiday, or small groups of friends celebrating something special. Throughout, the interiors reflect Eagles Nest’s commitment to thoughtful, understated luxury: original New Zealand artworks, a fully equipped gourmet kitchen, and quality finishes that feel both elevated and warmly liveable.

Outside, a 15-metre heated infinity pool stretches toward the horizon, seemingly merging with the Bay of Islands below. A jacuzzi completes the picture, and the expansive deck, complete with BBQ, is a natural gathering place from which to watch the sun descend over the water. Every detail of the outdoor space has been designed as a stage for the landscape itself.

Rate inclusions are generous: arrival champagne from Louis Roederer, daily gourmet breakfast provisions, fresh seasonal fruit replenished each day, daily villa servicing and Wi-Fi. Optional services available on request include a personal chef, butler, beauty and massage therapists, personal trainer, chauffeur, and bespoke catering, ensuring that your stay can be as hands-off or as tailored as you wish. Access to the Eagles Nest private beach is also included.

The Experience

The estate is run on deeply held sustainability principles, 20,000 native trees planted, a chemical spray-free environment, water independence from natural catchment, and 40 on-property beehives producing the honey you’ll find waiting in your villa. The entire operation holds Qualmark Gold status for sustainable tourism, and every product and partnership, from ecostore bathroom amenities to locally sourced wine, cheese and freshly baked goods, reflects a philosophy of luxury that treads lightly on the land it calls home.

Beyond the villa, the Bay of Islands unfolds as an endlessly rewarding playground. Charter a yacht and sail between the islands. Join a dolphin-watching or eco-cruise to encounter the marine life of this extraordinary coastal environment. Explore Russell on foot, its waterfront, its historic church, its unhurried cafés, or venture to the Cape Brett lighthouse for one of the North Island’s most dramatic coastal hikes. The Waitangi Treaty Grounds offer a profound window into New Zealand’s bicultural story, while the Russell Museum brings to life the region’s layered colonial and Māori history.

For those who simply wish to relax, The Eyrie provides everything needed. Arrange an in-villa massage. Watch the light change over the Bay from the infinity pool as the evening comes in. At Eagles Nest NZ, the experience is curated around you, and it is precisely this combination of world-class setting, impeccable service and genuine kiwi warmth that has made this one of the most sought-after luxury Bay of Islands accommodation options for discerning travellers from around the world.

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