The Kereru’s Nest

HOTEL OVERVIEW

You know how sometimes you find a place that’s so perfectly tucked away you almost don’t want to tell anyone about it? That’s The Kereru’s Nest, honestly. It’s perched up on Tauranga Bay Road in Kaeo – and I mean actually perched, like whoever built this place knew exactly what they were doing with the views. The name makes total sense once you’re there, by the way. It really does feel like you’re nested into the landscape, and you’ll probably spot some actual kereru (those chunky native pigeons) if you hang around the deck long enough.

The thing about this part of the Far North is that it’s still pretty raw and unspoiled – you’re about 20 minutes from the tourist buzz of the Bay of Islands, but it feels like a different world entirely. Kaeo itself is one of those blink-and-you’ll-miss-it towns, but that’s exactly the point. The Kereru’s Nest sits in this sweet spot where you can actually hear the tui in the morning (their calls are incredible, sort of like a weird alien song), and the Kaeo River winds below you toward the harbor. I spent way too much time just watching the light change on the water.

What really got me was how thoughtfully everything’s been done here. The owners – and you can tell they’re hands-on people – have managed to make it feel luxurious without being pretentious. The rooms have this clean, modern vibe but with enough character that you’re not staying in some sterile box. And honestly, the beds are fantastic. I’m talking proper sleep, which is saying something because I usually toss and turn in new places. The bathrooms are generous too, with these rainfall showers that actually have decent pressure.

Parking’s easy (always a relief when you’re driving around Northland’s winding roads), and check-in was refreshingly straightforward. The staff actually know the area – like, really know it. They pointed me toward this little walking track that leads down to a swimming hole that I never would have found on my own. It’s the kind of local intel that makes all the difference.

The location works perfectly if you’re using it as a base to explore. Whangaroa Harbor is right there, and if you’re into fishing or kayaking, you’re in the right spot. The Rainbow Warrior memorial at Matauri Bay is maybe 15 minutes away, and the drive itself is gorgeous – all rolling hills and glimpses of the coast. For supplies, there’s a decent little store in Kaeo, but honestly, you might want to stock up in Kerikeri on your way north.

One small thing – and this is barely a critique – the WiFi can be a bit patchy, especially when it’s windy. But you know what? I kind of loved being forced to disconnect for a bit. There’s something about this place that makes you want to slow down anyway. Maybe it’s the rhythm of the place, or maybe it’s just being surrounded by all that green. Either way, I left feeling like I’d actually had a proper break, which doesn’t happen often enough these days.