Set in 60 acres of lush subtropical gardens, the Copthorne Hotel and Resort Bay of Islands offers guests a unique blend of comfort, heritage and natural beauty. Located on the peaceful waterfront at Waitangi, just minutes from Paihia, this 4-star resort makes a perfect base for exploring Northland’s most iconic attractions – including the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, Haruru Falls and the world-famous Bay of Islands.
Whether you’re travelling as part of a small group tour or planning your own New Zealand adventure, the Copthorne is a restful, well-appointed resort with a true sense of place.
Prime Location on the Bay of Islands
Copthorne Waitangi Resort is located within the Waitangi National Trust Reserve, offering uninterrupted views across the bay and easy access to cultural, coastal and natural experiences. You’re just:
- A 5-minute walk from the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, New Zealand’s most important historic site
- A 3-minute drive to central Paihia and the ferry terminal for trips to Russell
- A 7-minute drive to the scenic Haruru Falls
- 20 minutes by car from Kerikeri Airport
The resort’s peaceful position, close to the water’s edge and framed by gardens, means you can enjoy beautiful sunrises from your balcony or patio, with only the sound of birdsong and waves as your morning soundtrack.
Spacious Rooms with Bay or Garden Views
All 140 rooms at the Copthorne come with their own private balcony or patio, giving you fresh air and views of either the gardens, harbour or Bay of Islands itself. The rooms are generously sized, well maintained, and equipped with all the essentials for a relaxing stay – from free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs to tea and coffee facilities and en-suite bathrooms.
Guests often comment on how peaceful the rooms are, even when the hotel is busy. For those who enjoy a bit of luxury, upgraded rooms provide the best sea views and offer a little extra space for longer stays.
On-Site Facilities and Experiences
This isn’t just a place to sleep – the Copthorne is a destination in its own right, especially if you’re staying for a few days. Highlights include:
- A free-form lagoon-style swimming pool with a naturalistic design and rock features
- A tennis court for a quick match or two
- An on-site massage studio for unwinding after a day of exploring
- The popular Jimmy Cook’s Kiwi Kitchen, serving up classic New Zealand dishes with views over the water
- Expansive gardens and walking paths, perfect for an early morning stroll or sunset wander
The hotel also provides a courtesy shuttle to Paihia, making it easy to explore local shops, restaurants, or connect with ferries for dolphin-watching tours or a visit to historic Russell.
Explore the Surrounding Area
Waitangi Treaty Grounds
Just a short walk from your room lies the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840. The site offers powerful insights into the founding of modern New Zealand, with cultural performances, guided tours, and interactive exhibits. It’s a must-visit location for anyone interested in Aotearoa’s heritage.
Paihia and the Bay of Islands
Paihia serves as a gateway to the Bay of Islands, a region famous for its 144 islands, turquoise waters and maritime history. From here, you can enjoy:
Boat cruises to spot dolphins, whales and penguins
- The iconic Hole in the Rock tour
- Kayaking along the coast or around the Haruru Falls inlet
- Visiting the charming town of Russell, New Zealand’s first capital
- Fishing charters or sailing excursions
For something more grounded, there are native bush walks, golf courses, and scenic lookouts nearby.
Sustainable Travel with Comfort
Copthorne Waitangi is Qualmark Enviro-Gold rated, recognising its commitment to environmental sustainability. From energy-efficient practices to preserving the natural beauty of the surrounding land, the hotel is designed to support eco-conscious travel without compromising on comfort or convenience.
It’s also Northland’s largest conference and event venue, but thanks to its spacious layout and natural surroundings, it never feels crowded.
What Guests Say
Visitors often highlight the peaceful setting, generous room sizes and outstanding service. Guests appreciate the family-friendly atmosphere, with features like the lagoon pool and spacious grounds giving everyone room to relax.
“My second-floor room had lovely views over the pool and bay – I enjoyed fabulous sunrises each morning from the balcony. The buffet breakfast had plenty of options, and the location was ideal for visiting the Treaty Grounds.”
Dining at Jimmy Cook’s Kiwi Kitchen
The on-site restaurant, Jimmy Cook’s Kiwi Kitchen, offers hearty meals using local ingredients and classic Kiwi recipes. Whether you’re enjoying a buffet breakfast or sitting down to dinner with views of the bay, the atmosphere is warm and welcoming. On selected nights, the menu includes regional seafood and New Zealand lamb, paired perfectly with local wines.
A Comfortable Base for Northland Adventures
The Copthorne is an excellent choice whether you’re planning to relax by the pool, explore Māori heritage, or use the hotel as a base for wider Northland exploration. With plentiful free parking, on-site facilities and easy access to local highlights, it’s ideally positioned to offer the best of the Bay of Islands.
Stay at Copthorne Waitangi on Our 28-Day New Zealand Tour
Want to experience this incredible resort as part of a fully guided itinerary? On our 28-day small group tour of New Zealand, you’ll stay at Copthorne Waitangi Resort for three nights, with breakfast included each day, plus dinner on days 5 and 7. It’s the perfect mix of comfort, culture and coastline.
Discover the Copthorne for yourself – and much more – on our 28-day New Zealand group tour.
