Book the Helena Bay Lodge with VIP Benefits

Helena Bay Lodge, with over two miles of pristine coastline, four private beaches, and countless intimate coves - Helena Bay Lodge is the ultimate romantic escape. Helena Bay Lodge is a delightfully personal retreat in the northeast corner of New Zealand's North Island. Here, guests will find a home away from home amidst the sound of crashing waves and stunning views over the Pacific. The Poor Knights Islands shortlisted as a UNESCO World Heritage site, lie 20 kilometers off the coast. These islands feature the world's largest sea cave populated by orca, dolphins, and hundreds of fish species. New Zealand's temperate climate has four seasons, and there is a distinctly subtropical flavor in the Far North.

This region has a long history of both Maori and European habitation. There are thousands of archaeological sites in Northland. The coastline boasts many prominent Pa sites (former Maori fortifications). For example, there are five Pa sites on Helena Bay Estate. An archaeologist's estimate suggests that up to 250 people may have called this land their home. With the direct access to the ocean providing an abundant food source and the terrain affording excellent defense, this is not surprising.

The inspiration for the Lodge architecture came from a desire to achieve timeless legitimacy in the region. Thus, styling ideas were taken from the early European buildings such as The Treaty House in Waitangi, Pompallier Mission House in Russell, Te Waimate Mission House in Kaikohe, and the Stone Store in Kerikeri. Modern materials were used, but the appearance of a building could have been built a century ago. The building base is clad in Northland sedimentary schist, sourced from a nearby quarry that formed part of the ocean floor 30 million years ago. Construction of the Lodge began in 2010 and was completed in 2016.

Helena Bay hosts a maximum of five individual couples accommodated in five Villa Suites named after New Zealand native birds. All the Villa Suites have extensive balconies overlooking Helena Bay beach and beyond the South Pacific Ocean.

Helena Bay brought the celebrated Michelin-starred Ristorante Don Alfonso 1890 of Southern Italy to New Zealand. Under the direction and the influence of Don Alfonso's philosophy of respecting the local food culture while incorporating the Sorrento peninsula's age-old traditions and the Amalfi Coast, fine dining will define the hospitality experience at Helena Bay.

For those who wish to relax, lounging around the pool interspersed with fossicking in the seawater rock pools adjacent to the Lodge is an excellent way to while away a pleasant day. A newly-laid Astroturf tennis court is adjacent to the Lodge. Trails for hiking and biking have been cut through the bush and down to the property's private beaches. The Lodge has the latest Trek mountain bikes (two with electric motors). When exploring the farm, you will meet the alpacas, donkeys, and Wagyu cattle.

Dining At Helena Bay

Helena Bay brought the celebrated Michelin-starred Ristorante Don Alfonso 1890 of Southern Italy to New Zealand. Under the direction and the influence of Don Alfonso's philosophy of respecting the local food culture while incorporating the Sorrento peninsula's age-old traditions and the Amalfi Coast, fine dining will define the hospitality experience at Helena Bay. Significant investment has been made at Helena Bay to offer guests "Estate to Plate" cuisine. The menus, which change daily, are created following the Don Alfonso philosophy. "Meals are becoming more about entertainment, to be experienced like theatre, but turning meals into a provocative spectacle is only part of the show; their contents must be a true absolute reference because we are what we eat. Here at Helena Bay, as at Sant'Agata sui due Golfi, we begin from the earth, growing everything we use in the restaurant. In this new paradise, we bring not only the know-how but our hearts." - Ernesto Iaccarino.

Head Chef Michele Martino was born in Southern Italy. He has trained in the culinary art of fine dining restaurants all around Italy and Europe. In 2009 he welcomed the opportunity to work with the world-renowned Iaccarino family at Don Alfonso 1890, sharing their Mediterranean cuisine concept. After establishing himself as a trusted and respected Chef under the watchful eye of Ernesto Iaccarino, he was asked to be Chef at the Don Alfonso 1890 Macau in the Grand Lisboa Hotel. After a very successful Macau period, the Iaccarino family decided to utilize Michele's exceptional culinary skills and asked him to help implement and establish new ventures, first as Chef de Cuisine in Dubai's romantic island of Capri.

Michele has arrived on New Zealand's beautiful shores ready for a new challenge with clear ideas: "I think Helena Bay Lodge is a unique and enchanting place where people can deeply enjoy all of life's pleasures. Helena Bay Lodge's organic philosophy meets the Mediterranean gastronomy history of the Iaccarino family. For this reason, I believe that guests who enjoy the beautiful property will have an unforgettable experience."

Dining Options

Served on exquisite dinnerware by Villeroy & Boch, meals at Helena Bay will never feel repetitive. Each night the choice of dining venue is yours, an elegant candlelit dinner in front of one of the many roaring log fires or on the terrace looking out to the Pacific Ocean. These are just some of the options. During the day, poolside lunches or a picnic on one of Helena Bay's private beaches are available. Whatever your mood, the Chefs and Lodge Staff are on hand to look after your every wish.

Degustation Dinner - The talented Chefs prepare a different five-course degustation menu every night, showcasing their signature dishes. You can choose to have a lighter three-course option if you wish – this menu will take you through a beautiful selection of flavors. Often the words look too good to eat! The reception team will email you a food preference form before your arrival, encouraging you to list any dietary requirements and any favorites you would like included.

Private Dining – The Den - The Den is the smallest, most intimate private dining area. Comfortably seating two persons, this secret room hosts the library and a log fire. This is also where the selection of board games is kept. A cozy space to spend a romantic evening with your loved one. Private Dining – The Formal Lounge - The Formal Lounge is the more prominent private dining room with a widescreen television. A great personal space to host a business meeting or if you can't miss that game! Private Dining – The Formal Lounge Loggia - The Formal Lounge Loggia is set up for you outside, where you can admire the stunning surrounding sea views. Don't worry about getting cold as dining is set up next to the outside fireplace. With prior notice, you have your exclusive evening set up and tailored to suit your requirements.

Wine Cellar

The wine cellar at Helena Bay houses has more than 240 selections and over 2,100 bottles of carefully selected New Zealand and international wines; some are actual finds which, in the hands of the Wine Manager, are the perfect companions for the exquisite meals served in the many dining venues - also thrilled to hold an Award of Excellence from Wine Spectator's 2018 Restaurant Awards.

Picnics

Offering a range of delicious picnics that you are welcome to take anywhere on the property, Mohei Beach is always a popular choice. With prior booking, the Pavillion is a spectacular place for alfresco eating. There are many great spots to explore on the property, including three private beaches – it is recommended to take one of the Polaris 4WD Rangers to find your perfect place. Alternatively, the service of preparing a unique picnic is provided setting for you at one of the private beaches of your choice. You have a fully customizable menu that can cater to your dietary requirements.