The “boardroom” is one of many popular private dining spaces on North Island. It got its name as one of the first tables built on the island and turned into the architects’ and designers’ boardroom table where they would lay out their plans every day.

On a small deck, under a takamaka tree and with sweeping views across East Beach and the sea, it’s a wonder that they ever got any work done. At certain times of the year, the waves lap up right against the deck. When the beach naturally grows again – as part of North Island’s endless beach movement rhythms – it is not unusual for turtles to plough their way through the sand to lay a clutch of eggs in full view of the boardroom diners.