Russian billionaire Alexander Abramov’s family trust is set to open a luxury lodge on New Zealand’s north island.

Named Helena Bay, the property will initially fit 10 people and will open in 2016.

Access to the lodge is via a 45-minute flight directly to Helena Bay, with a heli-pad within the grounds or travel by road, with the Lodge being just 40kms north of Whangarei.

The Abramovs were inspired by many of Northland’s early heritage buildings such as Pompallier Mission House in Russell, Waitangi’s Treaty House and Te Waimate Mission House. When they briefed their architect Greg Jones, the Abramov’s asked him to create a timeless and classic group of buildings that would readily blend in, and become at one, with Helena Bay.

The lodge will have one master villa, several mezzanine suites and there are plans underway to commence building a ‘cottage’ in a private bay, within the 304-hectare estate. The property includes 3km of pristine coastline, with four main private beaches and many coves.

Guest facilities include a gym, saunas, massage and treatment rooms, a 25-metre heated swimming pool, library, three lounge areas, both informal and formal dining areas and an outdoor fire pit. Gourmet cuisine and service will be provided at the high level that guests would expect, with fresh produce gathered daily from the estate’s own vegetable gardens and orchards and meat from the estate’s own Helena Bay farm.

Investment has also been made in many conservation initiatives at Helena Bay, with pest and predator management programs in place to encourage the return of pateke, kiwi and mutton birds to the property, as well as a program of re-planting a massive number of native trees to enhance the whole environment still further. It is also anticipated the property will be able to offer career opportunities to 20-30 staff once it is in full operation, as well as sourcing goods and services from within its local community.