BAYSIDE BEAUTY

In a country known for its lavish lodges, Helena Bay stands out for both its dramatic location and noexpense-spared facilities. Set on a three-kilometre stretch of remote northern coast on New Zealand’s North Island, the lodge’s five villas – each named after native birds and fitted with private balconies (and binoculars) – come designed with handmade European linens, mosaic-tiled bathrooms and Molton Brown amenities. Meals feature produce from the property’s farm and gardens; after dinner, pick a vintage from the 1,000-bottle cellar, pull up a pillow beside the alfresco firepit and watch the stars fill the sky. The Poor Knights Islands lie 20 kilometres offshore, and guests are afforded plenty of opportunities to explore the marine reserve in style. helenabay.com

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