Russell Bay of Islands, New Zealand
Renovated
2008
Price
$$$$
Rated for
Luxe Design WellnessOutside the door
Clifftop modernist pavilions
Glass pavilions perch along a private ridgeline, looking out over native bush and the surrounding waters of the Bay of Islands.
What it’s good at
Notable
Glass modernist pavilions with aerofoil copper roofs look out across the Bay of Islands.
Notable
Private heated infinity lap pools extending up to twenty-five metres, with in-villa saunas.
What they say
One Michelin Key
Michelin
The four villas are luxurious homes, designed in an utterly modern style, with brushed-metal appliances … and glass-walled showers in exhibitionist boutique hotel style.
Tucked away
A place apart: the property is the destination.
Historic Russell sits five minutes down the road, while coastal tracks wind through native bush down to secluded beaches.
The rooms
Standalone villas feature full kitchens, private jacuzzis, and expansive decks, while flagship Rahimoana adds a cinema lounge and private gym.
The lap pools
Bring a swimsuit.
Heated infinity lap pools stretch along the villa timber decks, looking out across the Bay of Islands.
In-villa treatments
Visiting therapists set up massage tables inside the villas, looking straight out over native bush and coastal hills.
Gym and yoga
A private gym inside Rahimoana provides weights and equipment, and instructors guide yoga sessions out on the pool decks.
How it began

Founders Daniel and Sandra Biskind restored the 75-acre peninsula by planting twenty thousand native trees, creating a protected sanctuary for kiwi.
Good to know
Stay here
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.