The ancient Greeks called them ‘lotus eaters' – people whose idea of life extended no further than serene ‘do nothing' days and even mellower nights. At Te Pa Helios, the ‘villa of the sun', we call them guests. And, while lotus isn't on the menu, peace, calm and relaxation certainly are.

Situated on the clifftop at Tapeka Point in the Bay of Islands, Te Pa Helios combines the friendly, informal warmth of New Zealand hospitality with international standard accommodation. Guests have the choice of a fully-appointed villa or a private suite in the self-contained guest wing.

Imagine waking up every morning with the magnificent Bay of Islands at your feet. That's the view from Te Pa Helios and it's only part of the experience.

The Bay of Islands is one of New Zealand's most scenic and historic areas. It takes its name from the 150 islands in the harbour, many of which are extinct volcanoes.

Leisure options are fishing (including big game fishing), scuba diving, an extensive range of tours, golf, sailing, visiting craft shops and many scenic drives and walks. Russell, in the heart of the Bay of Islands, is strategically located as a base for exploring this diverse and historic area.

Just a brief drive from Tapeka Point, historic Russell offers an interesting range of craft shops, restaurants, a museum and historic buildings, as well as a tourism information centre, banks and supermarkets. The township is also served by launch services which provide a different chance for sightseeing from the water.