Donkey Bay Inn

Surreal Luxury in the Bay of Islands, Donkey Bay Inn is Russell’s newest and quirkiest destination for the discerning luxury traveller that’s looking for something a little different. Donkey Bay Inn is set on a private peninsula overlooking the picture-perfect Waitata Bay – known locally as Donkey Bay. The lodge’s curves mimic the contours of the bay and is topped by an enveloping living roof, teaming with native plants and trees.

Entry into this off-the-grid retreat is through an intriguing, saffron-yellow, curved tunnel that delivers its guests into a private pebbled garden, filled with tropical flowers, before leading to the main pavilion with its panoramic view out over the spectacular Bay of Islands. Once inside, the feast for the senses does not end. The interiors are unashamedly unique, bold, eclectic, and verging on eccentric. This extraordinary hotel has art objects and furniture from all over the world; they include collections of vintage ocean liner trunks, floor-to-ceiling stone urns, a huge hanging photograph of Princess Margaret on water skis, and, in the lofty library, a collection of flags and nautical images, reflecting the owner’s love of sailing.

Each of the three guest suites enjoy a luxury, king-sized, four-poster bed, swathes of exotic fabrics, and an oversized mosaic-tiled bathroom, with either its own courtyard and garden access, or, in the case of the Skyfall Suite, a private deck with magnificent views out over Donkey Bay.