Location: Russell
Region: Northland
Tel No: +64 27 240 9109
Email: enquiries@donkeybayinn.co.nz
Website: www.donkeybayinn.co.nz
Total Guests: 8
Rate (NZ$): $450-$1200
Rate Sheet A: 2019-20
Rate Sheet B: 2020-21
Book Now: Book Now
Access: 50-minute flight from Auckland to Bay of Islands then 40-minute drive to Russell via Opua vehicle ferry from Paihia. Few minutes walk to Russell
Everything you never expected. Soulful, eccentric, vibrant and deeply inspiring, and recently awarded the World’s Most Eco Friend Hotel Its spectacular setting overlooks the stunning Bay of Islands.
Enter through the curved canary-yellow tunnel that emerges into a round courtyard garden enclosed by a pink wall that reflects light back into the building. This broad, sheltered almond-shaped courtyard is shaded by olive trees and provides a relaxing haven to dine or enjoy a private wine tasting.
The Sitting Room and Bar feature soaring ceilings, eclectic furnishings, and spectacular artworks – in summer two sides of this room open to the sea breezes.
The free-standing curved library is defined by wood and water; books abound and cool summer breezes waft garden scents through a double set of French doors opening to the garden.
Four exotically styled rooms feature wide views of the bay. Balconies or terraces offer private spaces to relax, four-poster beds to luxuriate and spectacular ensuites with organic toiletries. Imagine full-height walls of glass opening to your private grassed area with views to the bush and bays. Bathe in your tiled bathtub gazing at the sea views.
Silver Service Morning and Afternoon Tea, including a selection of fine loose-leaf teas, and lodge baked treats. Served in your room, the library, the lounge or the olive draped courtyard.
Sustainably cooled under a huge living roof, this architectural masterpiece will take your breath away. The estate is fully energy efficient producing its own electricity.
Walk down to the private naturist beach, or simply turn right to Long Beach. The bay provides a beautiful spot to swim and relax on the white sand.
Be chauffeured into Russell by the vintage Daimler DS420 limousine to dine, or simply wander this historic town.
With its own vineyard producing natural and conventionally-vinted vines, an olive grove, beehives, chickens, organic vegetable gardens, and self-sufficiency in water and power, the inn is practically a self-contained luxury ecosystem.
This unique inn with its extensive artworks is really not suitable for children.
Recent Trip Advisor comments
We have stayed with Antonio Pasquale and his lively assistant Amelia at Donkey Bay Inn in October. It’s the place to be in Rusell. Stunning views, great service, and a unique location. We have enjoyed the discussions with Antonio and lovely chats with Amelia. If you are not going there you might even miss being chauffeured by Antonio in his old Daimler.
Absolutely fantastic location, quirky but special – Stayed here for two nights whilst touring New Zealand. This is a small, luxurious boutique (ie very small) hotel that is clearly a labour of love for Antonio (the owner) and his team. Set overlooking the Bay of Islands with stupendous views particularly at sunrise. The room was extremely “special”. Breakfast was brilliant. Staff were engaging and professional. A nice touch was being driven by Antonio in his vintage Daimler to and from the restaurant in Russell for dinner- plenty of “looks” from the other diners when we got dropped off. Highly recommended hotel for a special treat.
