Donkey Bay Inn

Donkey Bay Inn is a private secluded home away from home. Each of the 4 luxury guest rooms have balconies looking out onto Donkey Bay and the private naturalist beach. The resort showcases amazing, bright artwork and furniture and each room is decorated with its own unique pieces. It's perfectly situated just 5 minutes from Russell Town Centre, rich in history, featuring New Zealand's oldest operating restaurant. Included in your stay at Donkey Bay Inn is a vintage Rolls Royce with driver for your transfers to and from dinner in town. The heated floors in the main dining, living area are a lovely touch on crisp mornings while you enjoy your coffee and delicious breakfast prepared by your hosts. Everyone is so kind, courteous, welcoming and helpful with any questions about the property, town and its surroundings. It truly was one of the most magical places I have ever stayed at and I will be back again to soak in the spa perched on the cliff edge!

Donkey Bay Inn is beyond exceptional and we were fortunate enough to spend two nights here. From the moment you park up and head into the property you will notice how incredible the architecture and exterior/interior design is. It is nothing like I have seen before. Antonio (the Italian owner) really has an eye for design and has put a lot of love into this property. We stayed in the Emperors suite and it had a great flow to it. The staff are super friendly and welcoming. They go out of their way to ensure you have a great stay. Breakfast is served overlooking the bay and a great way to start the day. There was a big variety foods such as fruits, cereals, eggs, avo, antipastos, spreads, juices, teas and coffee so you really were spoilt for choice. Antonio joined us for breakfast both mornings and he is just so sweet! It makes a different staying somewhere where you can connect with the host and get to know them and the property. There is a big history and heartwarming story behind this spot. There is plenty to do here- Walk down to donkey bay whilst checking out the sculptures and crystals Antonio has collected, have a sauna or bath over looking the beach, grab a book from the library and relax in the seated areas, or head into town for some yum food! Donkey Bay also offer a Rolls Royce to dinner as apart of the stay. Talk about royalty! I couldn't imagine anywhere else to spend my birthday. Cannot wait to come back, thank you girls & Antonio xx

We ended a short Northland trip with a two night stay at Donkey Bay Inn. From the direction instructions to the walkway to the beach this is a different place to stay. The setting is special. Quiet and a world away - just what we needed. The welcome and the hospitality is warm, friendly and helpful. The rooms amazing and different. I'd love go back.

We stayed in the Emporer's Suite for 2 nights for an 0 birthday celebratory weekend. Amelia and Brooke are so welcoming and nothing is too much trouble. The Inn itself is eclectically unique in all the right ways - more is definitely more! Go by yourselves and meet new people or book the whole place for 8 of you - you definitely won't be disappointed and there are surprises around every corner :) Already saving up for our next stay. Thanks again for having us.

Warm, inviting, exquisite attention to detail and a story and drama to immerse yourself in the art of luxury and relaxation. Beautifully appointed rooms, luxury bathrooms and a view and private Bay to simply wile away time. The staff relaxed, discreet, so friendly and accomodating, in every way. Sumptuous breakfast and stunning sunrise and sunsets to bathe in the panorama.Generosity towards guests with art and thoughtful gestures to enjoy. Spa and sauna to relax. From all my travels around the world this place beats any hands down. Did I mention the Rolls Royce at your disposal to dine out. Thankyou Thankyou!!

Not sure how to describe this property. The views were incredible, but the accommodation was not up to par. The furnishings are definitely "quirky" a style that may interest some but for us it was definitely not worthy of the price they charge. Old and needs a refurb. There is no soundproofing and you can hear everything. Lack of curtains in the rooms = lack of privacy. Some of the design choices were interesting to say the least. Breakfast very nice.

This place truly invites to revel in 'the art of the sweet doing nothing'. The view is simply mind blowing and the location amazing. Built into native bush, a short stroll down the hill brings you to the beach. Lovely, caring hosts made our stay perfect.