Experience the Magic

MAGIC COTTAGES AT TAKOU RIVER

Tucked away just outside Kerikeri & the Bay of Islands, Magic Cottages at Takou River are beautiful, luxury retreats on the banks of the picturesque Takou River. The secluded romance of Magic Cottage was voted one of the Top Ten Luxury Lodges in New Zealand.

Serenely paddle down the river to the stunning sandy beaches at Takou Bay, a favourite local surf spot. Enfolded in 150 acres of certified organic pasture, native bush and lively bird life, glow worms and swimming holes. Choose from 7 self-catering accommodation options, perched in 5 acres of sub-tropical gardens along the river bank, for a holiday that is as eco-friendly as it is decadent. Luxurious beds, cotton linen, feather pillows and duvets, electric blankets, cosy throws and bathrobes, bath and beach towels together with complimentary eco-toiletries, fresh flowers, books and magazines complete your stay.

For the ultimate barefoot indulgence, browse our luxury packages to relax, rejuvenate, romance and pamper. Featuring cosy wood fires, relaxing spa baths, star-lit alfresco claw-foot baths, pampering spa treatments, riverside massages and our unique hot tub experience, hidden away on the river bank.

Romantic luxury with a private al fresco bath in every cottage

Romantic luxury with a private al fresco bath in every cottage

5 acres of sub-tropical gardens in a 150 acre organic farm

5 acres of sub-tropical gardens in a 150 acre organic farm

Unplug & relax with no mobile coverage. WiFi available.

Unplug & relax with no mobile coverage. WiFi available.

Secluded & quiet with no light pollution or traffic noise

Secluded & quiet with no light pollution or traffic noise

River & beach access for kayaking, fishing & swimming

River & beach access for kayaking, fishing & swimming

Barefoot Romance

Perfect for honeymoons, romantic escapes or intimate weddings, Magic Cottages at Takou River offer award-winning romance tucked away in blissful seclusion in the Far North of New Zealand. Relax with a book to the soundtrack of native bird life, walk the deserted sandy beach at Takou Bay, paddle the river and star gaze from your very own private alfresco claw foot bathtub. Luxury packages are available to make your stay even more special with gourmet meals, massage treatments, private hot tubs and more.

​"Candle lit baths, tui singing to us over breakfast, a short canoe to an isolated beach, what more could you need. Just perfect to connect with each other."

- Mr. & Mrs. Melia; Waipu Cove -

Family Escapes

Tucked away into 5 acres of sub-tropical gardens and a 150 acre certified organic farm, Takou River is the perfect place for families to relax, explore and reconnect. Enjoy the docile Hereford cattle, free range ducks and chickens; meet the ponies; explore swimming holes, enjoy board games in front of the fire; help yourself to kayaks from the Boat Shed and paddle the river, or borrow a rod and fish to your hearts content. Truly a barefoot Kiwi escape, families are easily accommodated in our self-catering accommodation with bath tubs, BBQ, cosy wood fires, spacious decks, laundry and plenty of games & books to keep everyone entertained. After the kids are tucked in, soak away your stress in your own private alfresco bath under the stars. Wake up to the soundtrack of native bird life and the absolute peace at Takou River. If you can tear yourself away, we are perfectly situated to explore the Far North. Learn more about our location here.

Organic Farm

Magic Cottages at Takou River is home to 5 acres of sub-tropical gardens and a 150 acre certified organic farm with a herd of docile Hereford cattle, free range ducks and chickens, two friendly ponies and plenty of native bird life. Check into Shearer's Cottage or the Glamping Site to enjoy the farm up close and personal, or simply go for a stroll. With gorgeous woodlands to explore, fish jumping in the river and friendly cows; families and animal lovers will love our natural setting - 100% pure NZ!

"Candle lit baths, tui singing to us over breakfast, a short canoe to an isolated beach, what more could you need. Just perfect to connect with each other." 

- Mr. & Mrs. Melia; Waipu Cove -

Eco Focused

Anna & Ian Sizer, your hosts, live with their family high on the hill above Magic Cottages, in a home that is entirely off-grid, powered using a combination of solar and hydro technology, as well as multiple energy conserving techniques.  The House takes in breath-taking panoramic views of Takou River and the coastline out to sea at Takou Bay. Their relentless commitment to the environment has seen Ian and Anna plant more than 50,000 native trees with the aim of increasing the biodiversity of the area; fencing their riparian boundaries, creating wetland habitats and instigating noxious weed removal and pest control programmes. The 60-ha Takou River Farm is certified organic with Hereford cattle grazing the organic pastures, alongside stunning native birdlife. Touches of indulgence and whimsy in the claw foot bathes, alongside eco-friendly bath products make Magic Cottages at Takou River a romantic escape that it's hard to feel guilty about.