Auckland Hotels

Auckland's most distinctive luxury hotel was originally the city's best known and historic department store, Farmers. The landmark building has an iconic reputation and is a wonderful example of Southern Hemisphere art deco styling. The Heritage has two separate accommodation wings, made up of 467 rooms and suites, a tennis court and two swimming pools (one roof-top). There’s also a health club, a glass atrium and, best of all, a grand tearoom with fantastic views of the harbour. Though showing its age somewhat (although its due for a refurb), this grand old Auckland hotel is style and luxury personified.

Without exaggeration, this is one of the finest B&Bs in the entire country, with sumptuous, restored kauri-timber floors that feel like silk beneath bare feet, leading to exquisite en-suite rooms filled with fresh flowers, antique furniture and sherry or port decanters. There is a delightful verandah for breakfast (weather permitting) and the meal itself is an event of major proportions with large, healthy and hearty portions.

Oozing classic style, the Langham is one of Auckland’s top hotels and offers all the creature comforts that go with the luxury tag, including a spa and fine dining options. Rooms are elegantly furnished and spacious, and service is meticulously attentive. Ideally situated in the city centre, the hotel also provides a complimentary shuttle bus to and from Custom Street, near the waterfront.

This recently renovated and renamed art deco era hotel (formerly the Mercure Windsor) is located in the heart of central Queen Street. Surrounded by shops, theatres and restaurants, it’s just a short walk away from CBD, Viaduct Harbour, the ferry terminals and Vector Arena. With 79 rooms, most with kitchenettes, the Grand Windsor offers 24-hour room service, free Wi-Fi, a fitness room, spa and sauna.

It won’t win any design awards, but City Lodge offers central accommodation that is secure, comfortable and great value. Small, simple rooms come with tiny en-suite bathrooms, minifridges, TVs and biggish windows. There’s also Wi-Fi (additional charge), a shared kitchen and quiet reading room. A great backpackers’ option in Auckland’s overcrowded budget market.

This modest but decent hotel is located in the middle of the city and is only a 25-minute drive from the airport. Rooms are functional and offer en suite facilities; some budget rooms with shared bathrooms are available. Amenities include a bar, a restaurant and laundry services, as well as 24-hour reception and off-street parking. It’s a little shabby and age-worn in places, but is overall a good-value place with a friendly reputation, and in a handy location.

Located just metres away from the airport, ibis Budget offers 198 rooms designed for both families and individual travellers. Rooms come with the bare necessities: beds, television and an en-suite bathroom; Wi-Fi is extra. The hotel is within walking distance to nearby shops, cafes and restaurants.

Centrally located, within five minutes’ walk to Queen Street restaurants, shops, and the Sky Tower, Princeton Apartments offer simple and affordable rooms for travellers on a budget. Apartments can accommodate 1 to 4 people and include a shared kitchen and bathroom. 

This oddly-named but friendly budget hotel features bright, simple rooms with flat-screen TVs and en-suite bathrooms; there are also cheaper, more basic, hostel-style rooms. As well as an on-site coffee shop, the hotel offers a lounge and shared kitchen facilities. The hotel is a short walk from the waterfront, with its vibrant nightlife and restaurants.