If you plan on traveling to Great Barrier Island during the summer months, book your accommodations well in advance. In Port Fitzroy, Fitzroy House, Glenfern Road (tel. 09/429-0091; www.fitzroyhouse.co.nz), has a three-bedroom, self-contained cottage; rates start at NZ$200 but expect that to double during peak season from (Dec 24-Jan 15). Aotea Lodge, Tryphena (tel. 09/429-0628; www.aotealodge.com), has both backpacker accommodation (NZ$40 per person) and self-contained units from NZ$120 per night. On a hill above Okupu Beach, you'll find an ecofriendly gem in self-contained Bay Lodge Cottage, Moana View Road, Okupu (tel. 07/843-2000 or 09/429-0927; www.gamesail.co.nz), for NZ$275. You'll be treated to chilled wine, fruit, cheese, and flowers. Breakfast is included and no children under 12 are accepted.

At the top end of the market, you won't regret a hilltop stay in one of the three rooms at Earthsong Lodge, 38 Medland Rd., Tryphena (tel. 09/429-0030; www.earthsong.co.nz), where Trevor and Carol Rendle cook amazing meals as part of the NZ$762 room rate. The property is totally self-sustaining for energy and water.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.