Located near the harbor, Auckland is a special city in New Zealand. Nicknamed the ‘City of Sails’, it’s the only metropolis’ and vibrant economy in the country. Apart from outdoor attractions, you’ll also find tons of monuments, museums, and art galleries here. In fact, some of them are the finest in the entire country. In short, there are many reasons to visit New Zealand’s largest and most diverse city. Are you planning to travel here in the near future? Hang on then, because we’ll dig deep into some of the best hotels in Auckland NZ!
Where to Stay in Auckland
So, are you planning to travel to New Zealand, or to be precise, to Auckland? Well, each environment in ‘Queen City’ has different characteristics. For those who are more into an oriental atmosphere, on the east side you’ll find many Chinese and Vietnamese restaurants. As for more western and Polynesian culture, staying on the south side is a good idea.
If it’s your first time visiting Auckland, we highly recommend staying in the CBD (Central Business District). It’s very walkable and everything is in the main area. Some of the country’s top destinations are here, such as the Civic Theater, Albert Park, and the Skytower. Options for lodging are scattered throughout the area. Ranging from affordable ones to specific places like Top 11 Gay Friendly Hotels in Auckland.
Next, we have Ponsonby. The area is jam-packed with expensive restaurants, boutique shops, and fancy gift stores. It’s perfect for the nightlife enthusiast, as you’ll easily find a lot of fun and glamor around. Even better, it only takes a 20-minute walk from here to the city center.
But if the natural charm is your kind of thing, the West Coast will be the right choice. It’s a 50-minute drive from the city center. Here you can hike, swim, surf, and more, as there are lots of great things to do in Auckland! Don’t forget to stop by Piha Beach, a popular tourist area for surfing with hiking trails around it.
So, are you ready to discover one of the happiest cities in the world? For those who haven’t decided where to stay, the recommended list of best hotels in Auckland New Zealand below might help.
The Grand by SkyCity
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Make your holiday in Auckland memorable. Stay at a super luxurious hotel, with celebrity-like service! At Grand by SkyCity, guests can enjoy a lot of leisure facilities such as a fitness center, bar, and spa. They even have an award-winning restaurant here!
The rooms at Grand by SkyCity come fully equipped. You’ll get standard amenities such as flat-screen TV, super soft bed, and a modern bathroom, complete with slippers, bathrobe, and shower. Just like other hotels in Auckland NZ, WiFi is available in all areas.
Located in the Central Business District, you’ll have no shortage of options for entertainment around here. There’s a 24-hour casino nearby, as well as more than 20 restaurants, cafes, and bars, all within walking distance. We ourselves highly recommend visiting Auckland’s famous Sky Tower. Standing at 1076 feet, the tower is the city’s main entertainment hub and a place where you can enjoy Auckland’s stunning skyline.
After a long tiring day, stop by the hotel’s fitness center. They have a 25-meter heated pool, sauna, and spa. However, if you need more comprehensive treatment, go straight to the East Day Spa for a wide range of body treatments and facials.
SkyCity Hotel Auckland
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If budget isn’t an issue, make sure you stay at the SkyCity Hotel Auckland while in New Zealand. This five-star property is located in the Central Business District, close to some of the best the city has to offer. Iconic landmarks such as the Sky Tower and entertainment centers such as the SkyCity Casino are just a few steps away. Furthermore, you’ll also get the first-class service, just like most hotels in Auckland NZ.
The rooms at the SkyCity Hotel Auckland are all beautifully decorated. Some standard amenities such as a minibar, satellite TV, and a private bathroom are provided. Embrace the metropolis atmosphere, as each room features a private balcony/terrace with stunning views of the city. If you need anything else, the hotel will be ready to help with 24-hour room service.
Breakfast at the hotel is highly recommended. There’s a Fortuna Buffet Restaurant which provides buffet menus with New Zealand specialties and international cuisine every day. Psst, they also serve up some of the best coffee in town!
If you want to look around, the nearest bus and train station is only a 10-minute walk away. We highly recommend visiting Viaduct Harbor, about 0.49 miles from the hotel. In this waterfront area, you’ll find more than 30 bars and restaurants to relax and watch the world go by. What a great way to spend your holiday!
President Hotel Auckland
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Here’s another place that promises ultimate comfort in the Central Business District. President Hotel Auckland is a three-star accommodation offering an excellent high level of service. They have spacious rooms, a fitness center, complete meeting facilities, and, like most hotels in Auckland NZ, free WiFi throughout.
A stay at the President Hotel Auckland would be great for a family vacation, as each studio, apartment, and suites comes with a kitchen or kitchenware. Additionally, there’s an LED smart TV with satellite channels, a private bathroom, and air conditioning. Room service is also ready to help in case you need anything.
Buffet breakfast is available every morning at Watergate Restaurant. They also serve continental, Asian, and full English / Irish menus, if you’re in the mood for something else. Meanwhile, meals for children are also available upon request.
To get around, the hotel provides a car rental service. But if you want to experience traveling like a local, Britomart Station is only 10 minutes walk from here. Popular spots like Auckland Town Hall, Viaduct Harbor, and Auckland Domain can be found within less than a mile. For those interested to learn more about the historical side of the city, we recommend visiting the Auckland War Memorial Museum.
Hotel Grand Windsor MGallery by Sofitel
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Established in 1928, Hotel Grand Windsor MGallery by Sofitel is one of the oldest in Auckland. Still, it offers the best location for both shopping and fun in the City of Sails. The building is located right on Queen’s Street, Auckland’s main entertainment street. You’ll find tons of boutique shops, restaurants, and cool places to hang out around here.
As for the facilities, the rooms at this five-star accommodation are decorated with modern elegance. All come with smart TVs, soft beds by Sofitel, and, like most hotels in Auckland NZ, free WiFi access. Start your day with a bright mood, as they also provide a selection of teas here. As for caffeine addicts, the hotel has got you covered by adding a Nespresso machine. Sweet!
An a la carte breakfast is available at the Cookes Restaurant every morning. For more complex appetites, they also serve continental, British and Irish cuisines. Are you a vegetarian or prefer vegan and gluten-free food? Don’t worry, because they also provide those options.
Some of the city’s popular destinations can be found easily around here. Auckland Town Hall, Auckland Domain, and the Auckland War Memorial Museum, all are less than 1.3 miles away. But if you want a more vibrant atmosphere, head to Aoeta Square which is only 0.43 miles away. It’s a popular location for festivals, parades, live music, and art performances.
Cordis, Auckland by Langham Hospitality Group
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Pack your shopping bags and free up space in your suitcase, because Cordis, Auckland by Langham Hospitality is surrounded by tons of shopping centers! It’s located near Queen Street and Karanghape Road, where you can easily walk to visit shops as well as the city’s best museums and galleries. The atmosphere is lively enough too, great for a taste of the modern side of Auckland.
Speaking of rooms, we can safely say that Hotel Cordis really takes decoration seriously. All decorated in a modern way, with great attention to every detail. They managed to blend warm wood elements, handcrafted furniture, and quality textiles, in a way that doesn’t compromise comfort. And like most hotels in Auckland NZ, they also provide standard amenities such as TV, private bathroom, soft beds, and WiFi throughout.
When the clock strikes eight in the morning, head straight to Eight Restaurant for breakfast. They serve some international and local favorites here. For a more peaceful atmosphere, while socializing, we recommend stopping by the Lobby Lounge. You can also enjoy a glass of artisan tea or fine wine here.
For a bit of a relaxing moment after a busy day traveling around the city, Chuan Spa is ready to welcome you on level two. Refresh your mind and soul in their sauna or steam room. Or you might want to take a dip in the rooftop heated pool, which isn’t a bad idea either.
Base Auckland
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Staying here is highly recommended for backpackers. That’s because Base Auckland offers affordable hostel-style accommodation. But if you need some privacy or feel uncomfortable sharing space with strangers, don’t worry because they also have regular rooms here! Whichever you choose, they all come with air conditioning, soft beds, and warm blankets.
Anytime you arrive in Auckland, the Base Auckland will be ready to welcome you at their 24-hour front desk. Their staff is also very friendly and kind, ready to help you with your luggage. If you wish, they can even arrange tours and airport transfers if requested. In a rush? Express check-in and check-out services are also available.
Another thing that makes Base Auckland popular among backpackers is the bar. Whether it was on the ground floor or the rooftop, everything really came to life by dusk. You’ll be able to enjoy live music, DJs, and some sort of entertainment every night. It’s also a great place to socialize with locals and fellow travelers alike. But make sure not to party too hard, because you obviously won’t want to go around town with a massive headache the very next day!
Kiwi International Hotel
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Located in Auckland’s major business center, Kiwi International Hotel offers stunning views of the Waitemata Harbor. This three-star property is also within easy reach of the city’s nightlife and cultural center. Some of Auckland’s most famous landmarks can be found nearby, such as Albert Park, Myers Park, and Aotea Square.
The rooms at the Kiwi International Hotel carry a contemporary design. For productive times, there’s a functional workspace. Right after all your work is done, you relax for a bit in the living room area. Other than that, there are standard amenities like LCD TV, a tea maker, a coffee maker, and comfortable beds. As with most hotels in Auckland New Zealand, free WiFi is available in all areas. You’ll also get standard services such as daily housekeeping and luggage storage.
Sams Cafe and Bar will be ready to welcome you almost any time for a delicious breakfast and dinner. For business travelers, conference rooms, business center, and secretarial services, all available at your service. Looking for a fun time without leaving the hotel? The pool table on the ground floor is free for all guests.
For some recommended local attractions, the SkyCity and Skytower are only 15 minutes’ walk away. If you don’t mind driving for five minutes, stop by the Viaduct Basin. In this popular area, you can find some cool spots such as Dr Rudi’s Rooftop Brewing Co, AuraHoue Club, and one of the city’s most famous clubs, he Waterfront.
Ibis Budget Auckland Central
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Here’s another alternative to discovering Auckland without breaking the bank. Located in the Central Business District, the Ibis Budget Auckland Central offers affordable accommodation with easy access to some of the city’s must-see sights. The popular Queen’s Street isn’t far from here, while the best restaurants and bars are within walking distance. As for the Sky Tower and casino complex, you only have to travel less than 600 meters.
When it comes to the guest rooms, Ibis Budget Auckland Central carries a modern-style decor. All come with kitchen utensils such as a refrigerator and microwave. You’ll also get a flat-screen TV, comfortable bed, and a private bathroom here. Treat your eyes to gorgeous views of the City of Sails, as each room features a private balcony. And just like most hotels in Auckland NZ, free WiFi access is also available in all areas.
To get around, you can take local trains or buses. But if you’re not in the mood for a long trip, the Auckland City Gallery just 0.31 miles away. This award-winning four-story building houses a collection of more than 17,000 artworks. Including some brilliant work by Maori and Pacific artists, it’s a must for any art enthusiast!
JUCY Snooze
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When it comes to affordable accommodation, the CBD (Central Business District) has no shortage of options and JUCY Snooze is one of them. This budget hotel is just a 10-minute walk from the Vector Arena and Auckland’s waterfront. They also have a 24-hour front desk and a tour desk for those who need some guidance to get around.
As with other Auckland NZ hotels, WiFi is free in all areas. But please note that this is only available for 30 minutes daily in the reception area. After that, you have to pay an additional fee. You may want to contact the local staff before checking in, to get some more details about this.
Depending on which one you choose, the rooms at JUCY Snooze have either a private bathroom or access to a shared bathroom. Unfortunately, not all of them come with LCD TVs, work desks, and tea/coffee makers. So it might be a good idea to bring along your own coffee mug warmer.
Prepare yourself to walk around all day long, as several of the city’s hotspots are nearby. Places like Sky Tower, Auckland Art Gallery, and SKYCITY Entertainment Group are all within a mile. But if you don’t mind traveling 9.5 miles, there’s Pupuke Lake. This heart-shaped natural wonder occupies a volcanic crater between the suburbs of Takapuna and Milford. It is popular for a variety of recreational activities such as rowing, swimming, and even diving.
City Lodge Accommodation
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If you don’t want to live too close to the Central Business District, but want to be at the center of all the action, City Lodge Accommodation is your best bet. It’s located on a tree-lined street, offering a peaceful atmosphere. This five-star accommodation is also very close to some cool spots such as SkyTower and SkyCity Entertainment, approximately 10 minutes walk.
When it comes to the rooms, you’ll find large windows, a private bathroom, and a tea/coffee maker. Unfortunately, unlike most hotels in Auckland NZ, the one doesn’t provide all-in WiFi access. Instead, they offer several different packages based on the quota. We know, this might be a massive deal-breaker for some of you.
On the bright side, however, guests will have access to a communal area with a fully equipped kitchen, as well as laundry facilities and luggage storage. All can be used by guests at no additional cost. While for some fun time, there’s table tennis, a mini library, and some board games here.
The hotel doesn’t provide breakfast, but luckily you can reach Viaduct Harbor in just 15 minutes walk. In this popular district, you should be able to easily find dozens of top restaurants and bars. If you wish, the friendly hotel staff is ready to help by suggesting some recommendations.
Econo Lodge City Central
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In the heart of Auckland, Econo Lodge City Central offers easy access to some of the city’s famous landmarks. SkyCity Casino, Aotea Center, St James Theater, and Vector Arena, are all within walking distance. Major public transport is also nearby, making this three-star accommodation ideal for travelers. Apart from that, their 24-hour front desk is also ready to provide various facilities, from business services to travel arrangements.
All rooms at the Econo Lodge City Central come with a TV and private bathroom. There’s also a tea/coffee maker, ironing facilities, and a hairdryer. For a more comfortable holiday experience, we highly recommend booking a room with air conditioning and a balcony. As with most hotels in Auckland NZ, a breakfast buffet is available every morning at the hotel cafe. In addition, there’s WiFi internet access throughout the area at no additional cost.
Apart from the destinations we mentioned earlier, we also highly recommend visiting the Auckland Zoo which is only 2.48 miles away. Touted as New Zealand’s most diverse animal park, this recreation point is home to 135 different species and 1,400 animals. In order to save some time, you may want to order the skip the line: Auckland Zoo Ticket in advance.
Recommended Restaurants/Bars in Auckland:
- Gerome – Get a different culinary experience by tasting the delights of the Land of the Gods in New Zealand. Gerome offers Greek specialties with a brilliant modern interpretation. Some of the most recommended here’s the pork and lamb manti with fermented chili, as well as the roasted lamb kleftiko with watermelon jelly and pine nuts.
- Nanam – When it comes to food, Auckland is one of the most diverse in New Zealand and Nanam is one of the proofs. This modern Filipino restaurant is quite popular in the suburb of Takapuna. Some of their signature dishes include longganisa sausage with Wagyu beef and lamb adobo croquettes.
- Sidart – Experience Sid Sahrawat’s brilliant works. Let your senses of taste and sight be seduced by his creative dishes. The mind-blowing combination of Asian, European, and Indian flavors isn’t uncommon here. Make sure to stop by if you’re in the Ponsonby area.
Recommended Activities in Auckland:
- Sky Tower Auckland: General Admission Ticket – Get the best of Auckland from three different watchpoints on the SkyTower. First, there’s the Sky Deck that stands at 220 meters. Next, we got the Main Observation that stands at 186 meters. Finally, there’s the Sky Cafe standing at 182 meters, where you can observe the panoramic view while enjoying a great meal.
- Auckland: Scenic Flight over Auckland and Waikeke – Discover Auckland from a different perspective. Fly like a bird, crossing the most beautiful spots of the city. Learn about the best places in the City of Sails, with guidance from experienced pilots. We guarantee this will be your best 55 minutes ever!
- Auckland War Memorial Museum Entry Ticket – Find a side of Auckland history that’s rarely exposed in travel brochures. See the world’s largest Maori and Pacific Island collections. At the end of the trip, you’ll be greeted by no less than three floors dedicated specifically to cultural, natural, and memorial heritage.
