A small city with a lot to offer, Wellington is a charming place nestled into the southern end of North Island. Boasting an excellent location, between the glistening waters of the harbor and the undulating green hills of the surrounding countryside, the city is buzzing with a fantastic creative energy that will sweep you away with it.
Wellington is considered to be the craft beer capital of New Zealand and regularly features as one of the top beer cities in the world. Not into beer? Wellington also has a thriving coffee culture and boasts more cafés per capita than New York City. But “The Coolest Capital in the World,” Wellington has a lot more going on than beer and coffee. It boasts remarkable art and cuisine cultures and is home to the Weta Workshop, which is responsible for some of the most dazzling effects in “The Lord of the Rings” and “Avatar” franchises.
There are so many amazing places to stay in Wellington, from sprawling lodges on the outskirts of the city to modern hotels in the middle of all the action. In fact, there are so many fantastic choices that you may have a hard time choosing one. To help you out, we’ve compiled a list of the 12 best boutique hotels in Wellington!
Don’t want to read the whole article? Here are our top 3 picks:
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The 12 Best Hotels in Wellington, New Zealand
1. James Cook Grand Chancellor
The James Cook Grand Chancellor is one of the top boutique hotels in Wellington if you’re planning on doing a lot of sightseeing. Ideally located just a short walk away from the cable car, Te Papa museum, Sky Stadium, and the city’s primary shopping district, this hotel is an excellent place to base yourself and explore everything Wellington has to offer on foot.
Here you’ll find a great selection of accommodations to choose from, including spacious family rooms with two double beds and a fold-out couch. For a real VIP experience, we suggest booking the king suite with a harbor view.
This huge room is on one of the highest floors of the hotel and boasts floor-to-ceiling windows through which you can admire the dazzling Wellington skyline. It features separate lounge and dining areas, as well as a luxurious bedroom with a king-size bed.
While you’ll find a vast selection of cafes, bars, and restaurants on your doorstep, the hotel’s foodie options are definitely worth checking out. There’s a fabulous breakfast buffet served every day, followed by a tempting a la carte lunch menu laden with local, seasonal ingredients. For a special treat, a fancy high tea is also offered every afternoon.
2. The Intrepid Hotel
Set inside a 100+-year-old building that once housed a Cadbury Chocolate warehouse, The Intrepid Hotel is a stunning property inspired by all things travel. It’s made up of just 18 rooms divided between three floors, so you won’t have to worry about any noisy neighbors keeping you up at night.
Each of the gorgeous guest rooms has been thoughtfully designed and combines original architectural features and authentic local heritage with modern tech and gadgets. All of the rooms have their own character and come with a one-of-a-kind rug and original artwork.
One of the best things about staying here is that you’ve got access to complimentary tea and coffee throughout the day on each landing, plus a free baked treat and a glass of fresh orange juice each morning!
If you’re a wine lover, you’ve got to check out the Puffin. Located on the ground floor of the hotel, this swanky bar pours a huge range of wines from all over New Zealand and complements them with some delicious (and incredibly moreish!) savory snacks. If you’re looking for a boutique-style hotel, this is one of the coolest places to stay in Wellington.
3. U Residence Hotel Wellington
If you like to be totally independent on vacation, make plans to stay at the U Residence Hotel Wellington. One of the best hotels in Wellington, this property provides guests with a choice of 13 rooms, each of which comes with a well-equipped kitchenette, washer and dryer, individual air con and heating, high-speed Wi-Fi, and a 50-inch 4K UHD smart TV with Netflix. Better still, every room comes with a balcony so you can step outside first thing in the morning and watch the sunrise over the city.
Don’t feel like cooking for yourself? No worries. The hotel’s fantastic location means you’ll find endless dining options just steps away. The U Residence Hotel Wellington is located in the center of the cultural and entertainment district, with easy access to the city’s beautiful waterfront and fascinating Te Papa Tongarewa museum.
You’ll burn plenty of calories exploring the city on foot. But just in case you want to push yourself a little further, there’s a modern gym within the building.
4. Ohtel Wellington
Ohtel Wellington is where to stay in Wellington when you’re looking for something extra special. This 5-star boutique hotel is wonderfully located in the Oriental Bay neighborhood, just a short distance from the coast and many of the city’s other exciting attractions. Here you’ll be surrounded by so many clubs, bars, restaurants, theaters, and cultural experiences that you won’t know what to do first!
Whether you opt for a studio, deluxe room, superior room, or suite, you’ll be surrounded by fabulous mid-century artwork and furniture. All rooms come with a plush king-size bed with luxurious bedding, individual air conditioning and heating, unlimited Wi-Fi access, a Nespresso coffee machine, T Leaf loose leaf teas, and a stunning bathroom with an oversized tub and separate shower.
Splurge on one of the suites, and you’ll also get a working record player, a balcony that overlooks the Waitangi Park, and a separate lounge and dining area.
You’ve absolutely got to visit the Pantry at least once during your stay. During the day, this hotspot serves hot drinks, cold drinks, and a delicious selection of brunch-style eats made with locally-sourced ingredients. In the evening, the Pantry transforms into a late-night spot, serving bar snacks, sweet treats, craft beers, and local wines.
5. Naumi Studio Wellington
One of the most unique hotels in Wellington, Naumi Studio Wellington goes out of its way to make sure every guest feels like family. When you check into your room, you’ll find a minibar that’s very well-stocked with all kinds of drinks, sweet treats, and savory delights sourced locally that are totally free for you to enjoy!
Not only that, but you’ll also find USB sockets in the bedside tables, a smart TV with Netflix, opulent Antipodes bathroom amenities, a kettle with TWG Tea, and double-glazed windows so you can nod off peacefully every night. With modern lighting, decorative headboards, and contemporary wall art, staying in one of these rooms feels more like sleeping in an art gallery than a hotel.
There are plenty of places to hang out within the hotel. Lola Rouge is a fabulous restaurant that dishes up pan-Asian cuisine. If you’re not feeling hungry for a full meal, you can pull up a stool at the connecting bar and enjoy a glass of local wine with a small plate instead.
The colorful Parlour serves a fancy high tea each afternoon inspired by flavors from around the world, and the Parisienne Atrium is where you can try a creative, flavor-packed cocktail.
6. Sofitel Wellington
Combining local New Zealand culture with the sophisticated French way of life, Sofitel Wellington is the place to stay if you want to feel like a VIP. Guaranteeing a luxurious experience, the opulent hotel boasts extravagant rooms and suites that are so magnificent you’ll never want to leave.
Boasting a rich color palette of vintage gold and bronze hues, each accommodation option is your own personal haven to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. All rooms come with a super comfy MyBed bed so you know you’re going to have an amazing night’s sleep, as well as an LCD TV, workstation, a BOSE sound system with Bluetooth, and a gorgeous bathroom with a rainwater shower and French amenities.
Splurge on one of the suites, and you’ll also be treated to an exclusive location at the top of the hotel, a separate lounge area, a Nespresso coffee machine, and club benefits which include free drinks, breakfasts, and afternoon teas.
Wellington boasts loads of incredible evening spots, and you’ll find two of them inside the Sofitel Wellington. The elegant Jardin Grill invites you on a journey through modern, artful cuisine, while La Serre is a dazzling bar inspired by French greenhouses that serves some of the most creative G&Ts you’ve ever had the pleasure of sipping in your life.
7. Atura Wellington
Atura Wellington is one of the most exciting and dynamic boutique hotels in Wellington. Ideally located in the center of all the action, the hotel is within walking distance of the Lambton Quay shopping district, all the wining and dining opportunities at the waterfront, and tons of must-see landmarks.
Here you can choose from classic and superior rooms, including a family option that features one king-size bed and two single beds so the whole family can stay together. The classic rooms are great if you’re spending just a few days in the city.
But if you’re planning on staying a week or more, we suggest upgrading to one of the superior rooms. They’re much larger and come with free Wi-Fi access, tea- and coffee-making facilities, a flat-screen TV, and a workstation.
You don’t have to go far to find excellent food. Frankie’s Eatery is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner and serves brasserie-style dishes with something for every palate. If you’re not feeling hungry, check out Frankie’s Bar instead. Here you’ll find daily specials on food and drinks, as well as loads of bar-style light bites.
8. Bolton Hotel
One of the very few family-run independent hotels in the city, Bolton Hotel provides a fantastic base for a vacation filled with sightseeing. Here you can spend your days discovering Wellington’s finest shops, cafes, restaurants, and museums before returning to your serene room for some much-deserved peace and quiet.
Accommodation at the Bolton Hotel comes in the form of studios and suites, all of which come with unlimited Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV with Sky TV channels, tea- and coffee-making facilities, a workstation, and a beautiful bathroom with luxury bathrobe and slipper sets.
Upgrade to one of the suites, and you’ll be rewarded with a tub in the bathroom, a full kitchen, a washer and dryer unit, and a separate living and dining area. The suites are a wonderful choice if you’re spending a week or more in the city.
If you’re in the mood for a workout, you’ll love the fitness center and lap pool. If you’d rather take it easy, take advantage of the curated minibar and sleep program, which includes exclusive video content and aromatherapy in your room to help you doze off.
9. Microtel by Wyndham Wellington
Unleash your cultural side and stay at Microtel by Wyndham Wellington. This 4-star hotel is decorated with colorful, contemporary artwork that reflects the character and culture of the area. Step outside the hotel and you’ll discover everything from award-winning dining to world-class museums within reach. One of the best things about the hotel is that it’s just 5 miles from the airport, so you can start your vacation almost as soon as you land.
While there are countless cafes, restaurants, and casual food joints in the area, you’ve got to try Vivian’s Café. This trendy restaurant dishes up sandwiches, salads, and freshly-baked goods throughout the day. We suggest you skip breakfast and grab brunch here. If you’re not feeling hungry, take advantage of their extensive wine and craft beer selection instead.
Here you’ll find a variety of queen rooms to choose from, each of which is decorated with calming shades of gray, blue, and white. All rooms come with a comfy queen-size bed with a large TV opposite, individual air con and heating, tea- and coffee-making facilities, and a modern bathroom with a backlit mirror and opulent toiletries.
10. QT Wellington
Without a doubt one of the most ostentatious and unique Wellington hotels, QT Wellington is almost too beautiful to be true. Wherever you look, you’ll spot designer furniture, striking artwork, and quirky decor you’ll never see anywhere else.
Whichever type of room you choose, you’re in for a real treat. You’ll be spoiled with a king-size bed and luxurious linens, designer furniture, eye-catching fabrics, textures you won’t be able to keep your hands off, and one-of-a-kind lighting. Step into the bathroom, and you’ll be wowed by shining golden accents and a shower that feels like it belongs in a spa.
The hotel’s bars and restaurants are absolutely worth checking out. The larger-than-life Hippopotamus restaurant serves everything from decadent breakfasts and luxury high teas to creative cocktails and swanky dinners.
Hot Sauce is where you can treat your taste buds to innovative Asian drinks and bites, and the Lobby Lounge is the place to go to relax with your favorite drink and some live music. Don’t have the energy to leave your room? Then you’ll be glad to know that QT Wellington offers an extensive room service menu, too.
11. U Boutique Wellington
Spread out across two European-style buildings, the U Boutique Wellington is a small and welcoming place that’s brimming with character. With its multi-colored mural façade, this place really is impossible to miss. There’s no way you can walk past it!
Here you’ll find just 13 rooms, ranging from hostel-like accommodations with shared bathrooms to huge family suites with well-equipped kitchenettes and ensuite bathroom facilities. Whichever one you choose, you’ll be treated to a room with a neutral color palette, bright pops of color, contemporary artwork, and tall windows that let loads of natural light flood the space. Some of the rooms even include oversized spa-like hot tubs!
As a guest, you’ll get to take advantage of unlimited high-speed Wi-Fi, a 32-inch LCD TV, free tea and coffee throughout your stay, laundry facilities, and affordable parking. Although, the hotel boasts such a central location that you really don’t need to rent a car. You can get around everywhere on foot.
12. Wellesley Boutique Hotel
When you’re looking for where to stay in Wellington that you’ll be telling friends and family about for years to come, make a reservation for the Wellesley Boutique Hotel. This amazing hotel goes the extra mile to make sure every aspect of your vacation is as perfect as possible. When it comes to the best hotels in Wellington, the Wellesley Boutique Hotel is a top contender.
Tucked away in the charming Lambton Quarter, the hotel offers easy access to all the best things to see and do in Wellington, but still far enough away so that you don’t have to worry about the noise.
The quirkily-named Cornercopia serves three different freshly-made salads each day, as well as a hot meat-based dish and a hot plant-based dish. For something a little heartier, check out Earl’s Sandwich Bar, where you’ll discover all kinds of gourmet sandwiches and wraps.
Wellesley Boutique Hotel boasts a huge choice of accommodation options, ranging from classic single rooms to exclusive deluxe rooms. If you’re celebrating a special occasion, we suggest booking one of the deluxe rooms. These spacious and elegant options come with neo-Georgian details, a king-size bed, and an art deco-style bathroom with a double sink, tub, and shower.
That completes our list of the 12 best Wellington hotels! Did we miss any cool boutique hotels in Wellington? Comment below so we can add them to the list!
Where to Stay in Wellington
Wellington is divided into a number of diverse districts, so you’re sure to find the perfect place for your vacation. If this is your first time visiting the city, we suggest staying in Mount Victoria.
Part of the Wellington CBD, this neighborhood is in the very center of the city and is bursting with cafes, bars, restaurants, museums, and some of the best hotels in Wellington. Mount Victoria is also famous for being a filming location for the “Hobbit” and “Lord of the Rings” movies, so there are plenty of interesting places to see.
The Kapiti Coast is a top pick if you’re visiting Wellington as a family. This part of the city boasts a series of golden sandy beaches lined by a family-friendly seaside cycle path. Here you’ll also find the Maclean Park Playground, Marine Gardens water park, Southward Car Museum, Tramway Museum, and Shoreline Cinema here.
For something a little out of the ordinary, check out Brooklyn. This neighborhood is home to some of the coolest Wellington hotels, art deco architecture, manicured parks, venerable churches, and even a New York vibe.
It boasts its own version of Central Park and all its streets are named after American presidents. Tourism has yet to take off there, making it a great option if you want to avoid the crowds and immerse yourself in a more local experience.
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