The Best Eco-Lodges and Resorts in Auckland, New Zealand

The fact that all 99 timber-lined rooms here are exactly 22sqm (237sqft) demonstrates the meticulous detail behind this proudly sustainable building overlooking Waitematā Harbour. Hotel Britomart is the first hotel in New Zealand to be awarded five Green Stars, thanks to an ecofriendly approach that includes hand-made bricks used in the construction. The theme continues inside, with hand-crafted ceramics, minibars stocked with local snacks, and much more.

Cordis has been EarthCheck-certified for more than a decade. The hotel staff have also created a Green Pledge, which includes the use of energy-efficient lighting and heating, recycled stationery and the option for guests to reuse their bedding and towels.

Warblers Retreat is a boutique bed and breakfast in a secluded bush-lined setting in North Shore, a 35-minute drive from downtown. Sustainability is an important part of the operations here: all food scraps are recycled, rainwater is repurposed whenever possible, the cleaning products are fully biodegradable, the garden is fitted with solar lighting, and LED lighting is the priority indoors. Intimacy is another benefit – only two couples can stay here at any given time; select between a luxurious self-contained apartment suite or a garden-vista cottage.

Located 45 minutes north of Auckland city, Riverside Matakana is where you can immerse in scenic coastal vistas, green country pastures and beautiful vineyards. This lovely retreat is set among 16ha (40 acres) of manicured grounds and features 17 self-contained baches (quintessential New Zealand beach houses), which are fully furnished and fitted with extensive outdoor decking. Environmentally conscious practices such as the repurposing of rainwater, the use of biodegradable cleaning products and the planting of native trees are some of the eco-friendly initiatives here.

For the eco-conscious traveller with a penchant for glamping, there’s always the Castaways Resort. The retreat is situated on the coastal clifftops of Karioitahi Beach, on the west coast of Auckland, and has an incredible range of facilities for those who are pining for an indulgent pamper session or are searching for a romantic place to unwind. Besides a lush glamping village with expansive ocean views, the resort also has a day spa, a selection of studio units and two-bedroom chalets, and an à la carte restaurant.

Piha Beachstay is a family-owned, budget-friendly accommodation with plenty of sustainable amenities. Rain is the primary source of water for the accommodation, wastewater disposal is conducted via an on-site treatment plant, all glass and plastic bottles are recycled, and biodegradable products are used for laundry and cleaning. Rooms are self-catering, with free wifi and include shared bunk rooms, plus private twin, double and ensuite bedrooms. As a bonus, the accommodation is within walking distance of the rocky Piha Beach and Kitekite Falls.

With a handy location by the airport, Sudima is the ideal place to shrug off your jet lag. The accommodation is part of a chain that puts a strong emphasis on sustainability, adhering to Green Globe and Qualmark benchmarks and implementing eco-friendly policies. Sudima features three room types (superior, executive and executive suite), wheelchair-accessible rooms and facilities, plus a restaurant known for New Zealand wines and à la carte breakfasts.

If you’re venturing north of Auckland to explore the picturesque Bay of Islands, a stay at Bay Cabinz Motel in Paihia is worth considering. It’s a short distance from the best shops, cafes and restaurants in town, and is also conveniently close to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds – a must-visit if you want to learn about New Zealand culture and history. All the chalets were designed with environmental friendliness in mind: water is sourced from the local river, energy-efficient wall heating and light bulbs are fitted throughout, and there’s a designated recycling area.

Tapeka del Mar is an eco-friendly beach resort located in the Bay of Islands town of Russell, a three-hour drive north of Auckland. A strong commitment to conservation and sustainability has earned it an Enviro Silver Award from Qualmark, the official tourism quality assurance body in New Zealand. On offer is a four-bedroom, two-bathroom holiday home that’s fully furnished and can sleep up to 13 people. It’s right next to the beach, and there’s an array of facilities such as an expansive barbecue area and deck, three kayaks and a rowboat, plus some basic fishing equipment and a fish filleting station.

This luxury lodge sits in 10ha (25 acres) of native forestry in the foothills of Mount Pauanui, just a couple of hours’ drive from Auckland. For the traveller wanting to recoup and recharge, the Grand Mercure Puka Park Resort offers a collection of sophisticated chalets and suites with private balconies, treetop vistas and modern furnishings. Spa, swimming pool and sauna facilities, as well as an on-site restaurant, ensure you’ll be pampered throughout your stay.