We’ve found the most swoon-worthy boutique and design hotels in Auckland, New Zealand
A former nuns community, a property inspired by the native Tui bird, and an Art Deco revival all feature on this list.
For many of us city-lovers, a holiday in a buzzing destination is always a good idea. Thankfully, from the neon lights of Tokyo to the chill vibes of Sydney and in historic London, dazzlingly designed hotels await around every corner. And if you’re planning a trip to New Zealand’s largest city, be sure to book at one of these gorgeous boutique and design hotels in Auckland for your interior design fix.
Plus, listen below to our classic Kiwi playlist to get you in the mood.
The best boutique and design hotels in Auckland
1. The Hotel Britomart
If you’re looking for effortless chic in your Auckland hotel, then look no further than the recently opened The Hotel Britomart, the first hotel in the country to be awarded 5 Green Stars for sustainability. Featuring a stunning exterior of hand-made bricks, this is one of the city’s trendiest properties and is a hop, skip, and a jump to both the waterfront and downtown.
Inside, 99 timber-lined rooms are havens of solitude and beautiful design, with many offering views of the harbour. The Landing Suites take things one step further, with terraces, libraries of New Zealand books, and ceramics by local artisans.
Dine at Kingi, the onsite restaurant that celebrates local, sustainably caught seafood, or discover the plentiful eateries housed in the nine block precinct within which the hotel resides.
Find out more about The Hotel Britomart
2. The Convent Hotel
Another new-ish opening, this time in Grey Lynn, The Convent Hotel is everything a boutique hotel lover dreams of. Once a community for nuns, the 22-room property is soaked in history and we love that it has retained the original Spanish mission-style architecture and many of the fittings.
Check-in to rooms with whimsical names like Nuns Repose and Sisters Quarters, and you’ll find all the comforts of home combined with ornate ceilings and modern design details. Go all out and stay in Mother Superior, a two-bedroom apartment that occupies an entire wing of the hotel and feels like a NYC loft apartment.
Hungry? Ada is the place to sample a selection of Italian fare, but it is popular, so be sure to book your table in advance.
Learn more about The Convent Hotel
3. Hotel DeBrett
In the heart of the CBD, the 25-room Hotel DeBrett is a colourful space from which to base yourself as you explore Auckland. Expect bold stripes and retro vibes here, with a range of loft-style rooms and suites spread over two floors.
DeBretts Kitchen is loved by locals and visitors alike, offering contemporary New Zealand cuisine for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Housebar is all about the Art Deco feel with classically inspired cocktails and killer service. The hotel is also known for its Roaring 20s High Tea sets, available on the weekends and featuring delights like Devilled eggs with Crispy Prosciutto, Jaffa Mousse, and Hokey Pokey tartlets.
Learn more about Hotel DeBrett
4. QT Hotel Auckland
Designed by Nic Graham, QT Hotel is all about bold patterns and colours, drawing inspiration from the oyster and oyster trawlers. A blend of smooth and rough textures can be found in the guestrooms here, complemented by natural hues and light flowing through the floor-to-ceiling windows.
At Esther, guests can indulge in an authentic taste of the Mediterranean that features sustainably-caught seafood, while Rooftop at QT offers views of Auckland Harbour served alongside some of the best drinks in town.
Find out more about QT Hotel Auckland
5. Warblers Retreat
Get back to nature with and Eco Glamping experience at Warblers Retreat. Situated in the heart of the city, you’ll be transported to an immersive forest escape, complete with outdoor spa bath.
The accommodation is actually in an original, 70s caravan and includes a lush queen-size bed and plenty of board games to keep you entertained. There’s a BBQ on hand to cook up a storm and a hearty breakfast can be included.
Learn more about Warblers Retreat
6. Fable Auckland
Looking for an Art Deco hideaway in the heart of downtown Auckland? Fable Auckland has your name all over it. Originally built in 1927, the five-star property was refurbished in 2017 complete with jewel toned interiors (inspired by the jewellery collection of Wallis Simpson), brass fittings, and state-of-the-art appliances. Each of the 79 guestrooms vary slightly in layout, but expect a chaise longue from which to enjoy your nightly turndown chocolates.
At Cooke’s Restaurant & Bar, Chef Jinu Abraham serves up dishes that highlight sustainable and organic produce. Be sure to book in for a classic high tea featuring egg mayo sandwiches alongside buttermilk scones with strawberry and rose preserve.
Find out more about Fable Auckland
7. Naumi Hotel Auckland Airport
Finding its design inspiration from the native Tui bird, Naumi Hotel Auckland Airport uses colour palettes that reflect the natural flora and fauna of Aotearoa. There are five different room types on offer here, each with an eclectic design to suit your mood or personality. Our fave has to Dottie, rooms designed after Yayoi Kusama’s own heart and covered in polka dots, closely followed by Ziggy, suites that pay homage to fashion brand Missoni.
Enjoy a swim at the outdoor pool, spend time on the mini putting green, or get a session in at the gym during your stay. At Paksa Bar & Restaurant, Executive Chef Miguel Adriano, serves Asian-inspired dishes with a focus on health and well-being.
Learn more about Naumi Hotel Auckland Airport
8. Mudbrick Vineyard and Restaurant
Over on Waiheke Island, Mudrick has a range of properties to choose from over its rolling estate. Take in the iconic views of the vineyard from the luxury Lodge where three stunning guestrooms with en-suites await and a fully-fitted kitchen allows for long evenings of entertaining with loved ones.
The Cottages have been designed with whimsy and fairytales in mind, expect epic views and a complimentary continental breakfast to help you enjoy it with. Of course a visit to the famed Mudbrick Restaurant is a must during any stay on the island.
Discover more about Mudbrick Vineyard and Restaurant
9. Hotel Fitzroy curated by Fable
For something a little different, Hotel Fitzroy curated by Fable can be found inside a carefully restored landmark villa. Enjoy time in chic guestrooms that come complete with locally crafted, sustainable bathroom amenities, Dyson hair dryers, and 48 inch LCD televisions.
Relax in the library and sample hors d’oeuvres with a fine wine, or indulge in the in-room breakfast service.
Learn more about Hotel Fitzroy curated by Fable
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