Donkey Bay Inn │ Russell
Tucked away in Russell in the beautiful Bay of Islands, Donkey Bay Inn has stunning sea views from each of the four opulent bedrooms and suites, and is bursting with exotic art and memorabilia.
Located in the beautiful Bay of Islands, Donkey Bay Inn is about 45 minutes drive and ferry ride from Kerikeri Airport. It’s around three and a half hours drive from Auckland and a 20-minute passenger ferry ride from Paihia or a 10-minute car ferry from Opua. There is also a helipad on site for those who want to fly in.
The property is just 5 minutes from the center of Russell township, but with a gated entrance, mature native plantings, and 180-degree panoramic sea views, you could be miles from anywhere. The tranquil setting, beautiful birdsong, and whisper of the ocean combine to create a relaxed feeling of total escape.
For those who are feeling social, or want to take advantage of the gourmet eateries and local vineyards, there is plenty on offer.
Located in the beautiful Bay of Islands, Donkey Bay Inn is about 45 minutes drive and ferry ride from Kerikeri Airport. It’s around three and a half hours drive from Auckland and a 20 minute passenger ferry ride from Paihia or a 10 minute car ferry from Opua. There is also a helipad on site for those who want to fly in.
The property is just 5 minutes from the centre of Russell township, but with a gated entrance, mature native plantings and a 180-degree panoramic sea views, you could be miles from anywhere. The tranquil setting, beautiful birdsong and whisper of the ocean combine to create a relaxed feeling of total escape.
Suites And Rooms
Skyfall Suite
Skyfall Suite is located on the upper floor of Donkey Bay Inn.
This room offers magnificent panoramic sea views which can be enjoyed from the private balcony and from the sumptuously appointed bedroom, complete with a super king-size 4 poster bed. You can even gaze at the sea from the large Italian bath in the generously sized bathroom. This suite also has a private lounge.
Emperor’s Suite
Emperor’s Suite is located on the ground floor of Donkey Bay Inn. This room offers magnificent panoramic sea views which can be enjoyed from the large private patio, lounge area, and from the opulent bedroom, complete with a king-size 4 poster bed. The feeling of living like royalty continues in the generously sized bathroom with an oversize bath and a double shower.
Tosca’s Room
Tosca’s Room has beautiful sea views and a sumptuous king-size, four-poster bed. Located on the ground floor of Donkey Bay Inn, this sunny, generously proportioned room has a level entry, wheelchair-friendly access. A spacious walk-in wardrobe, and the light, airy bathroom with level access, spacious shower completes the feeling of cosseted luxury. Large bi-fold doors can be pushed back with a small step down to a beautiful patio and garden area with magnificent sea views.
DB5 Room
DB5 is located on the upper floor of Donkey Bay Inn and has a fun, 70’s retro décor and furnishings. Enjoy sea views from the queen size bed, the low-slung leather armchairs in the sitting area, or from the small, private balcony. Rich colours and low ceilings combine to create an intimate vibe.
Every room includes
- 48-111 square metres
- Luxury queen or king beds
- Spectacular sea views from your bed
- Magnificent ocean vistas
- Gourmet continental breakfast
- Private sitting room
- In-room video, Wi-fi, and use of iPad
- Writing desk and safe
- Bespoke kimono robes
- Private patio or terrace
- A large spa with sea views
- Car parking and use of the helipad
- Private balcony and in-room sitting area
- Use of the spa overlooking the sea
- Complimentary limousine transfers to ferry
- Complimentary classic car transfers to ferry
- Concierge service and much more…
Outside there is a spa tucked away in the garden where you can enjoy a relaxing soak as you take in spectacular views… especially beautiful at sunrise. Or use the private access to take a walk or a refreshing dip on the secluded beach below.
Your accommodation also includes a gourmet continental breakfast in the beautiful dining room downstairs and concierge assistance when wanted.
To ensure a tranquil experience for all of our guests, Donkey Bay Inn is child-free unless you book the whole inn.
Sympathetic to surroundings
In the early 2000s, Gary Underwood, an experienced naval and civil architect, was engaged to design this unique building.
The brief was that it was to be 'off-grid', incorporate as many natural materials as possible, and be sustainably built. Most of th
The Courtyard
As you enter through the intriguing curved tunnel, you discover a place marked by harmony and peace. This beautiful courtyard creates a sense of arrival and marks the beginning of a spectacular journey.