No setting in New Zealand is richer in history or nature than the Bay of Islands, and Paihia is at its centre - the departure point for all the boating and bay tour activities that explore the birthplace (te pitowhenua) of New Zealand / Aotearoa. The cradle of this multi-cultural country, the nation’s iconic and unmissable Waitangi Treaty Grounds and national marae (Maori meeting house) are also close by, along with wineries and boutique cheese, confectioners and a farmers’ market. Just 7 minutes’ drive from all this, handy to the bustling yet laid-back townships of Kerikeri and Paihia, with their restaurants, food oulets and souvenir shops, you’ll discover the space and peace of The Riverside Homestead. The long, sleek, architect-designed lodge building nestles into the landscape and overlooks the historic Waitangi River. Free-range hens and adorable alpacas will welcome you to this haven. The interior features redwood and local heart Rimu native timber. The lodge guest lounge and dining room have high, solid timber ceilings supported on substantial Douglas Fir beams, while the light-filled rooms, each with a panoramic balcony and discreet external private entry, are in the privacy of their own wing. Some older treasures include a hand-carved Victorian chaise longue, and even a vintage Austrian grand piano for musical guests. Owners and hosts Chris Wharehinga Swannell and Michael Hooper invite you to share the peace and comfort of this natural riverside haven. The sheltered, sun-facing decks look over sweeping lawns descending past native and flowering bushes and trees down to the river. Chris, who is a priest and marriage celebrant at Christ Church Russell, is part Maori, and can share with you his people's history. With its oxygen-rich cloak of tall trees, the river-side Homestead's spray-free estate is fresh and healthful.