We knew Paihia was going to be a really nice place to visit but we we were unprepared for the effect the place would have on us.It's pretty much like paradise - even in what is classed as late autumn here. Cook's Lookout is not in the centre of the town - so if you're looking for a central motel... More

What a great place! The view of the bay and sunrise was spectacular. The view of the stars off the room attached balcony was a great bonus to the very comfortable and quite accommodations. It was great to get away from the hubbub of the town central and still be just a few minutes drive to all of the restaurants... More

We stayed at Cooks Lookout for 4 nights in March 2012. We consisted of 3 adults and 3 children and were here for a trip down memory lane. If you are looking for all the mod cons right in the heart of Paihia then this is not the place for you, but if you want somewhere you can relax, have... More

We , 2 nearly seniors ! stayed at Cook's Lookout for 2 nights in April as a result of having read their advert which was in The AA guide. We were greeted warmly by Norm and Sheila and given an apartment near the pool with adjacent parking. It had a wonderful view. The facilities in the room were more than... More

Stayed for 3 nights (or our 13 NZ nights) in 2nd half of Apr-12. Stunning vista from our hilltop cabin over the coastal inlet. Postcard views changing morning/night. As per other reviewers we agree that the rooms are a little dated however they are obviously renovated now to a very acceptable standard. Norm and Shelagh are the perfect hosts. They... More

We stayed at Cook's Lookout for 2 nights as part of a road trip around the north island. We all liked that it was located a few minutes up the hill from Paihia, so it was much more quiet and relaxing than staying at the waterfront. The view of the bay from the room is amazing, and you'll want to... More

We are two adults and two small children (ages 2 and 4) who spent three nights at Cook's Lookout in April, staying in a two-bedroom unit at the top of the property. We're four months into a 6-month visit to NZ and this was, all-in-all, probably the nicest accommodation we've had here. The location is spectacular, with views from our... More

Our son had flown in from Bangkok and was late arriving. We got lost finding our way out of Auckland but thereafter Norm's directions were good. We arrived at 10.30 pm on a cool clear evening to be met by Norm who showed us where the fan heaters were and put the electric blankets on, especially appreciated by our son... More

The Bay of Islands is probably my favorite spot in all New Zealand. As other reviewers have noted, you can base out of here and travel to the Waipoua forest (ancient kauri trees), Cape Reinga, and elsewhere in Northland, but the Bay of Islands itself is such a beautiful, relaxing spot that it seems hardly necessary to travel. I've stayed... More