Michele says...
In the Bay of Islands area, you may want to check out The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs (from $443). It’s a luxurious property that has everything from spa services to beach barbecues. There’s also The White House (from $157), a recently renovated B & B-type property with heated towel racks, a spa pool, free port and sherry and a full breakfast buffet. Plus they can lend you fishing gear so you can catch supper from the wharf nearby. Email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it to get a visitors’ guide.

A travel writer extraordinaire, Michele Sponagle has visited more than 40 countries around the world. Send her your travel questions here.