Eagles Nest Russell

This multi-award winning New Zealand luxury retreat is set within a 75 acre estate atop its own private ridgeline offering spectacular views of the Bay of Islands. Designed and furnished in an eclectic international contemporary style, where gardens and lodgings blend into the natural topography and foliage.

Unlike so many New Zealand luxury retreat, Eagles Nest, in Russell, the Bay of Islands offers the services of a resident personal trainer and spa therapists ensuring the most indulgent of stays.

Four of the five villas have private heated horizon edged pools, all have private jacuzzis, air conditioning, original artworks, home theatre system, Ecostore amenities and fully equipped gourmet kitchen.

Our team of talented resident chefs can spoil you for the evening with a delectable specially designed menu featuring freshly caught fish, crayfish (lobster), venison, lamb, and more. Eagles Nest chefs prepare this meal within the sanctuary of your villa. Relax with a superb glass of New Zealand wine in hand and take in the breathtaking views afforded.

Located in the Bay of Islands with easy access to the historic town of Kororāreka (Russell) in New Zealand, Eagles Nest offers a variety of luxury accommodation options for the most discerning of travellers. The Bay of Islands is a world renowned holiday destination with 144 plus islands to explore in this sub tropical paradise.

World class big game fishing, scenic cruising, sailing diving, kayaking, bush walking, mountain biking, helicopter flight seeing, romantic picnics are but some of the many options available from Eagles Nest. “Eagles Nest….somewhere between seven stars and heaven”

VILLAS
Located in the stunning Bay of Islands, Eagles Nest is an exclusive villa resort consisting of five stunning private villas, where your every need is catered to.

From panoramic ocean views, spacious accommodation, private concierge – you won’t need to see anyone else – unless it’s your dedicated butler or chef. Perched atop the cliffs at Russell, guests experience the very best of five-star service and catering.

RAHIMOANA VILLA
Our premier villa, Rahimoana’s design is unparalled in luxury, space and privacy. With soft shades of pale grey and white, Rahimoana epitomises the refined elegance of modern minimalism.

With a dramatic aerofoil copper roof floating above three-metre sliding glass walls, Rahimoana offers 300 degree views of ocean, islands, sunsets and landscapes. Rahimoana – Sun God Over The Ocean (Maori Translation)

Four superb bedrooms with ensuites flank the generous living and entertaining space. All have jaw-dropping views flowing seamlessly across granite balconies surrounded by lush beautifully-landscaped grounds.

The ever changing ocean and sky, sunsets, sunrises, abundant wildlife, with the sounds of rolling waves from your private beach hints at why Rahimoana is a world class holiday villa. Drenched in all day sun, this stunning villa sits on 44 acres of private headland with panoramic views of New Zealand’s famed Bay of Islands.

With over a kilometer of beach and ocean frontage overlooking deep water anchorage this iconic, one of a kind masterpiece also features a 25 meter infinity pool, a helipad and acres of pristine private land and native bush. There is a gymnasium, sauna, office, service area, and wine cellar enabling large scale and intimate entertaining with family, friends or business associates.

There is nothing in the world like Rahimoana for those who aspire to holiday or celebrate any special occasion in a villa that is a spectacular work of art. From the water, it appears hunkered into the hilltop as if it was always meant to be there.

This magnum opus boasts multiple indoor-outdoor living and lounge areas perfectly complementing the subtropical climate and breathtaking world class vistas.

SACRED SPACE VILLA
Sacred Space is our multi-generational villa, perfect for families or friends traveling together. Casually elegant, all suites in Sacred Space Villa are uniquely appointed with original New Zealand artwork and antique furnishings.

The large two-storey glass-roofed living area transforms gracefully from relaxed living to formal dining and your own dedicated celebration space. The commodious master bedroom occupies the entire upstairs area and enjoys four exposures, all with superb views.

The open plan gourmet kitchen adjoins the dining and lounge areas all opening onto beautiful outdoor decks and living areas including a 20-metre heated infinity pool and spa, where there is another full bathroom, outdoor shower and adjoining sauna.

FIRST LIGHT VILLA
Growing out of the hill side over-looking the magnificent land and seascapes, First Light oozes intimacy and is the preferred honeymoon villa or idyllic retreat for two. You will never want to leave the simply elegant villa that is First Light.

This is the ultimate nest for 2. A mezzanine bedroom enjoys spectacular views with floor to ceiling glass shower in the ensuite and skylight over the bed. The main floor has indoor and outdoor fireplaces with walls of glass bifold doors that allow the outside in.

First Light has a fabulous gourmet kitchen, another full bathroom, additional outdoor shower and a garden jacuzzi to soak away in under the starlit sky.

EAGLE SPIRIT VILLA
Tucked into the hillside, with magnificent ocean views, Eagle Spirit offers peace and relaxation amidst a stunning sun-drenched space. This spacious villa, perfect for up to three couples; offers magical vistas overlooking the picturesque Bay of Islands.

Immediately on entrance guests will be awestruck. Space, privacy, lush native landscapes, and ocean views with the best sunsets available. Look across to the historical grounds of Waitangi or watch dolphins frolic below, all while indulging in early evening cocktails on your deck or enjoying from the prime location of your outdoor spa.

CUISINE
Gourmet Epicure, Personal Chefs, Local Food and Wine, The Old Packhouse Market, The Bay of Islands Farmers Market & self catering are but a few options worth consideration.

GOURMET EPICURE AND PERSONAL CHEFS
Dining is an integral part of the Eagles Nest experience. Let the team of talented resident personal chefs awaken and delight the connoisseur within.

Eagles Nest’s “Gourmet Epicure” showcases a diverse array of New Zealand’s finest produce sourced locally and nationwide to provide a true sensation for all the senses to savour. Personal Chef menus are found in the downloadable information under bookings.

LOCAL FOOD & WINE
Northland vineyards consistently produce award-winning wines and all welcome visitors for tastings and cellar door sales. Accolades have been awarded to Northland cheesemakers for their delicious cheeses. Citrus fruits and olives are grown widely.

Locally made chocolate and coffee beans are a treat. The seafood is plentiful, fresh and magnificently varied. For great seaside dining options in Russell, visit The Duke of Marlborough, The Gables, Butterfish or Charlotte’s Kitchen across the water in Paihia.

SELF CATERING
Guests have the option of utilising their own gourmet kitchen within the villa. Each villa features modern appliances including ovens, hobs, toasters, kettles, dishwashers, crockery and cutlery. Villas can be personally pre-stocked with your selection of provisions for a nominal fee or choose from two local general stores or one of the local oyster farms only minutes away.

THE OLD PACKHOUSE MARKET
The Old Packhouse Market, which operates each Saturday, is a great place for locals and visitors to source fresh, local produce; meet for coffee, breakfast or brunch, and enjoy some fabulous Northland hospitality!!

You will find good, hearty, farm fresh produce as well as sample good food with great coffee of course. The Market is also a good place to purchase gifts created by talented local arts and crafts stallholders.

BAY OF ISLANDS FARMERS MARKET
The Bay of Islands Farmers Market, held in Kerikeri every Sunday morning, is a leisurely affair and has been running since 2004. Along with fresh regional grown vegetables, there is also specialty produce and gourmet goods including locally roasted coffee. Sub tropical fruit abounds, whether in preserves, jams or jellies.

WEDDINGS
Whether your celebration is an intimate affair or one for 50 guests for a seated banquet, only a tailor made experience will do, where one or all of our stunning villas provide the backdrop. Your wedding is a reflection of your passions and dream, to be looked back upon as the most memorable day of your lives.

Our luxurious property, overlooking the stunning Bay of Islands, provides an ideal and unique location for your wedding day; where each moment blends effortlessly into the next. Our dedicated wedding coordinator can assist with planning for your magical day.

CONFERENCES & MEETINGS
Whether it be an intimate dinner party for eight through to a banquet for fifty, our dedicated event coordinator will ensure your event is an unforgettable experience.

Eagles Nest offers an intimate and exclusive function space that is unique in design, offering unsurpassed views of the Bay of Islands and providing the perfect base for your conference, meeting, incentive or function.

LAND
As one of the earliest settlements in New Zealand, Russell and the surrounding areas have a rich and colourful history. Captain Cook first visited in 1769, putting the Bay of Islands on the European map. As a harbour, it was described as a most noble anchorage and it was little wonder that whalers and traders regularly stopped at the port of Kororareka for fresh water and supplies.

Missionaries (Anglican and Catholic) followed in the 1820’s and 30’s and much of this history remains today. Further explore Russell’s history at the Russell Museum and Pompallier House. Further Culture and Heritage Options can be found here.

After discovering the diverse history of Russell you may wish to explore the Bay of Islands area further with a personal guide from Black Robin Transport or engage in an authentic cultural experience with local Maori with Taiamai Tours.

Visit the world’s largest Kauri tree and explore the Waipoua forest with a local maori guide with Footprints Waipoua. The Bay of Islands and Te Rawhiti peninsula provide a wonderful choice of walks and hikes. These walks are accessible by road or foot from Eagles Nest.

GOLF
The Bay of Islands region features a number of golf courses offering superb views and world-class courses:

• Waitangi Golf Club – 18 Hole Par 70 Course, The course not only provides an exciting and ever changing challenge to the golfer but also the most tremendous panorama of sea and island views over the Bay of Islands, Russell, river and estuary views over Waitangi and Opua and rolling bush and forest views inland over Mount Bledisloe and Puketona. These views complimented by well groomed greens and fairways surrounded by areas of flowering native trees which provide sanctuary for many varieties of native birds. The Pro-Shop is well stocked with the latest golf must haves and also has a quality range of hire equipment. Finally end your day with a lovely meal and drink from the Club cafeteria then sit back, relax and just enjoy the views.
• Kauri Cliffs – 18 Hole Par 72 Championship Course. Kauri Cliffs was designed and built by David Harman of Golf Course Consultants, Orlando, Florida. The course measures 6,510 metres and offers five sets of tees to challenge every skill level. Fifteen holes view the Pacific Ocean, six of which are played alongside cliffs which plunge to the sea. The beautiful inland holes wind through marsh, forest and farmland. Currently ranked among the 100 Greatest Golf Courses in the World by Golf Magazines World Top 100 Course Ranking panel. The golf complex includes a world-class practice range, putting and chipping greens, a well stocked golf ship, and ladies and mens locker rooms. Callaway ladies and mens rental clubs are available.
• Keri Keri Golf Club – 18 Hole Par 73 Championship Course, The course is a meticulously maintained 6101 metre championship golf course in the beautiful Bay of Islands. The course makes wonderful use of the contours sculpted by the Puketotara Stream and the Kerikeri River and provides beautiful views of the New Zealand native bush and birds. The signature 13th hole is a 120 metre par 3 over a steep drop to a generous green well protected by bunkers and water hazards with a sweep of the river at the back of the green. The course opened in 1973.
• Carrington – 18 Hole Par 72 Championship Course, The golf course at Carrington Resort is sited so as to provide a variety of vistas to the golfer. The course is located with sweeping ocean views to the north and east, and hill side vineyards of Karikari Estate to the south. Spectacular views of the golf course, wetlands, beach and ocean beyond are visible from the clubhouse and lounge complex. The clubhouse is sited on a high ridge in the middle of the golf course in order to take full advantage of the unique combination of vistas. The championship standard course was designed by American golf course designer Matt Dye.

CYCLYING
For those who wish to explore the Northland and Bay of Islands areas more seriously, we suggest the services of the team at toptrail. All year round in Northland brings warm days and blue skies.

Ideal for some great riding. Spring through Summer and Autumn are stunning times of year and perfect for cycling adventures. Clear bright days and moderate to warm temperatures make for an enjoyable bike tour.

HORSE TREKKING
Eagles Nest horse riding experiences are provided by Horse Trekin Paihia. Novice riders will be briefed and schooled on riding techniques before embarking on a quiet leisurely horse ride through the forest enjoying beautiful scenery, forestry ocean views and perhaps a splash into the sea at Wairoa Bay.

For the more experienced Horse Trekin offer the opportunity to explore ridges and views over the Bay of Islands and surrounding areas. You may embark on a ride to the volcano, where you’ll enjoy breathtaking 360 views of the Pacific ocean, the islands and the pine forest.

Custom tailored rides available including swimming with your horse and treks up to ridge line of the local volcano to take in the spectacular views. Rides available from 2 hours – full day options.

SEA
With its rich marine wildlife, clear blue water and secluded beaches, the area can be enjoyed by people of all ages. The Bay of Islands is world renowned for its beauty and Eagles Nest is the perfect base for getting out and exploring the bay. Russell Wharf is the pick up and drop off point for most charter operators.

Enjoy the thrill of tagging and releasing a marlin or game fish with MV Ata Rangi or try for Yellow Tail King Fish, Snapper, Hapuka, Tuna, John Dory or Sharks with Earl Grey Charters or Major Tom II Charters.

Fans of this Salt Water Fly Fishing will be thrilled with the opportunities presented in the Bay of Islands. By boat or from the shore, there are marvellous opportunities to fly fish. Snapper, Kahawai and even Kingfish will provide an exciting challenge and can be overseen by one of the best saltwater fly guides in New Zealand.

For something different, you can write yourself into the history books with a luxurious cruise or a fishing charter on board one of New Zealand’s most historic boats, the ‘Alma G’.
Enjoy a day cruising or fishing the waters of the Bay of Islands, experiencing the sights and sounds that inspired the writings of the legendary Zane Grey aboard the recently refitted Alma G.

Looking for an exclusive sailing excursion where every whim is catered for by your dedicated crew? You cannot go past Cool Change offering an unforgettable experience. If you wish to sail yourself visit Fairwind for an extensive range of well equipped yachts.

If you feel the pressures of time and want to venture out onto the water without committing a whole day, we suggest the services of the Ocean Adventure. A high speed boat adventure taking in the Bay of Islands at speed!

Scenic cruising, island hopping with regular scheduled trips from a few hours to a full day visit Fullers Great Sights. Ever wanted to swim with the dolphins? Explore – Bay of Islands

Join Darryl and his friendly team on Darryls Dinner Cruise and enjoy two and a half hours hours on calm waters as you cruise up the Waitangi River. Dine in style and comfort on board the unique Ratanui while you marvel at the abundant bird life and historic points of interest. You make your way up to the gorgeous Haruru Falls while relaxing, enjoying a delicious meal as the sun goes down.

Interested in kayaking? The majestic Waitangi River or the wider Bay of Islands is waiting to be explored! Visit the friendly team at Coastal Kayakers for some great options. Enjoy breath taking views over the Bay of Islands from New Zealand’s highest parasail with Flying Kiwi Parasail. Fly up to 1200ft with regular departures from Russell Wharf.

FISHING
Our local charter vessels have been fishing the Bay of Islands and the North East coast of New Zealand for may years. All vessels are provided with professional skippers with knowledgeable crew. Many of our vessels have won numerous fishing tournaments, and are members of Bay of Islands Swordfish Club.

Our local vessels target Marlin, Tuna, Yellowtail Kingfish, Hapuku and Snapper. A range of vessels are available, both for the ‘fair weather sailors’ through to the avid fisher-person!

All boats are comfortable, with plenty of shelter from the elements and offer toilet facilities. Most offer cooking facilities, a fridge, and tea and coffee is complimentary. Full catering is available by prior arrangement. Your catch will be prepared to your liking ready to cook, or it can be smoked by our local professional smoker.

AIR
Departing directly from Eagles Nest are a number of exclusive helicopter options visiting areas such as Cape Reinga, 90 mile beach and the Waipoa Forest.

For the ultimate helicopter fishing experience, Eagles Nest recommends Rotorwork. With fully catered rock fishing adventures in locations only accessible by helicopter, your day starts with a scenic flight out over the Bay of Islands en route to your chosen fishing destination.

Guests are provided with all necessary fishing tackle, quality rods and reels, bait and lunch. No prior fishing experience is necessary as a professional fishing guide is also available

In addition to helicopter adventures, it would be our pleasure to assist with Lodge to Lodge transfers, exclusive golfing excursions and exclusive lunch settings which are only accessible by helicopter. We recommend Salt Air, Advanced Flight and North Shore Helicopters.

Eagles Nest would also be delighted to assist with private plane transfers throughout New Zealand and Australia with Air National and Salt Air.

ADVENTURE
Eagles Nest is your chosen base to explore the many adventure activities in the Bay of Islands. Add some extreme flare to your luxury experience, try one of the following;

Tandem sky diving from 20,000 feet with a fully qualified jump master with Sky Dive Zone Bay of Islands. Enjoy at least a minute at free fall and speeds of up to 120 mph or 200 kph before deploying your dual sized parachute all while enjoying the spectacular panoramic views .

Join Fullers Great Sights, aboard Island Adventurer and discover the rugged seaward side of the Bay of Islands with its sheer cliffs and caves accompanied by the sweeping sandy beaches of the inshore islands.

See historic Marsden Cross, the site of New Zealand’s first missionary settlement and the place where the first Christian sermon was preached. Visit the majestic Black Rocks – these stunning and rare basalt formations are of a type found in only three locations worldwide.. Fullers Great Sights

Join Captain Rich and team at Kiwi Parasail and sore up to 1,200 feet with New Zealands highest parasailing adventure. No age restrictions or experience required and sail up to three persons at one time behind the purpose built boat. Flying Kiwi Parasail.

EAGLES NEST BIRDS
Eagles Nest is proud to be home to many of New Zealand’s unique and at risk birdlife. The special geography and location of Russell has meant that predator control, though ongoing, has been very successful and shown amazing results.

We take very seriously our responsibility to the environment we have around us. By creating as little impact as possible on our many acres of Native Bush and working very closely with groups such as the Kiwi Foundation, to regularly check and maintain pest traps through-out the property, we aim to encourage our unique residents to flourish and look forward to continuing the repopulation of the Bay of Islands with many more of its former inhabitants.

NORTH ISLAND BROWN KIWI
By far New Zealands best known and iconic birds, the Kiwi is certainly a well loved oddity. Flightless, nocturnal and laying the largest egg for its size in the world, these remarkable birds were perfectly adapted to their pre-European habitat.

Unfortunately, Kiwi have been hit hard by the introduction of pests such as the stoat and domestic cat and they currently number just 8000 in the Northland area. Happily Kiwi are resilient and have been responding well to repopulation and pest eradication projects and numbers are once again on the increase.

At Eagales Nest this year we have been very busy in our Kiwi Care. As well as our ongoing association with the NZ Kiwi Foundation to keep the peninsular predator free, we have also introduced our first Kiwi House with the intention to construct and place at least 6 more around the property in the near future.

These cosy wooden Boxes are especially designed to simulate a burrow and easily allow the Kiwi to rest, nest and defend itself if necessary.

The boxes are also designed with a small viewing window meaning that monitoring can be done easily without any disturbance to the Birds and also allows the opportunity for any interested Guests to have an up close meeting with these very special New Zealanders. This year also marks our first official Kiwi Count where we look forward to listening out for our Kiwi calls at locations throughout the property.

NORTH ISLAND WEKA
Lesser known and even rarer than its Kiwi cousin, at present The North Island Weka only remain on mainland New Zealand in a handful of locations Eagles Nest being one of them. Many of our Guests have easily mistaken this timid, Flightless bird for the Nocturnal Kiwi though as they are active during the day, they are in fact much easier to spot!

Weka were believed to have disappeared altogether from the Russell peninsular as early as the 1940s. In 2002, following a widespread predator eradication programme, 39 Weka were localised and released in the area.

The Weka quickly moved around and have happily called Eagles Nest home ever since. It is hoped that the success here in Russell will be used as an example and breeding stock for future repopulations through-out New Zealand’s North Island.

Weka need little encouragement to flourish here at Eagles Nest. There is an estimated 30 breeding pairs on our peninsular and this is rapidly increasing each year. We are very proud of the fact that we are one of the few places in the whole of New Zealand where the true Evening Chorus of the Kiwi, Weka and Morepork can be heard outside from the comfort of any of our Villas.

THE LITTLE BLUE PENGUIN
The Blue Penguin or Korora are widespread around the coast of New Zealand. They are the smallest of all penguins weighing just 1kg on average and spend their days swimming the oceans, eating fish, squid and crustaceans only coming ashore at night to sleep and nest.

The Blue Penguin holds a special place in the history of Russell in particular, with Kororareka, her Maori name meaning Sweet Penguin! They are frequently spotted in the Bay of Islands swimming around charter boats and also around the Russell wharf in search tasty mackerel.

Happily Penguin numbers are very healthy in the area and this is especially helped by the constant control of stoats and rats who are well known to kill nesting parents and chicks.

The Eagles Nest beaches are home to many of these gorgeous little birds, and for several years now we have placed Penguin boxes along the shore line to provide shelter and nesting places that are used year round.

Website: www.eaglesnest.co.nz

Rooms: 5

Price: from 1.109 EUR per night