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Aerial view of Mt. Eden and the Auckland skyline in New Zealand.
Known as the city hugged by two harbors—the Manukau and the Waitematā (also known as Auckland Harbour)—Auckland, New Zealand, is a bustling metropolis in the north of New Zealand. In fact, because it has the country’s largest population, many people mistake it for the capital (Wellington actually holds this distinction). However, what you won’t mistake it for is its captivating urban life that seamlessly blends into the rugged outdoors, like the city’s oldest park—Auckland Domain in the suburb of Parnell—which was built upon the crater blast of the Pukekawa volcano, no less.
For all of your Auckland adventures, especially after a long day, one must have the option to return to suitable creature comforts. These are the top hotels in Auckland:
Hilton Auckland
Hilton Hotels & Resorts
Hilton Auckland is perched on Princes Wharf, right over Waitematā Harbor, with waterfront views of Auckland Harbor Bridge and Stanley Point on the North Shore. This luxurious hotel is just steps from major retail shops and attractions like the Sky Tower. The property has a modern design, with a sustainable seafood-focused restaurant, and spacious suites with wraparound balconies and views of the Hauraki Gulf, the Harbor and the Auckland Bridge.
Stamford Plaza Auckland
Governors Suite
This luxury hotel is located on the bustling stretch of Albert Street and is all about providing a wealth of options. With nearly 300 rooms (with four suite categories), the hotel offers wellness-focused amenities that include an indoor heated pool, whirlpool spa and sauna. There are also dining options aplenty, including a unique take-away high tea—perfect for that waterfront picnic.
Hotel Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour
Opera Suite
French elegance intermingles with a lively Kiwi state of mind at this luxury hotel. Award-winning designs are forefront in their Opera Suite, which features floor-to-ceiling views of Waitematā Harbour and the Auckland cityscape, contemporary styled furnishings and curated fine art pieces. For more bliss, head to the So Spa for local one-of-a-kind treatments that use the country’s most nourishing ingredients, including Manuka honey, Rotorua geo-thermal mud and warming greenstones.
SO/ Auckland
SO/ Auckland
Conveniently situated in Auckland’s Central Business District (CBD), this boutique hotel boasts plenty of business and meeting spaces, but the chic property also emphasizes its whimsical approach to design through its 130 guest rooms, which are inspired by Auckland’s volcanic origins—solid, liquid, vapor, caldera, and exposure are all themes. The talk of the town, though, is its SO/VIP penthouse suite; to create one of Auckland’s most sought-after rooms, SO’s signature designer, Benny Castles, drew inspiration from nature and the city, offering guests an eclectic stay. Along with a restful night’s slumber, take advantage of the Wine and Dine offers, which include specialty events with Michelin-starred chefs.
Park Hyatt Auckland
Park Hyatt Auckland
Opening at the end of this year, Auckland’s new Park Hyatt, called the Wynyard Quarter home, will offer pristine views of Waitematā Habour. Many of its design elements—most notably, the hotel’s exterior, which will reflect the look of a contemporary marae (house/home)—will honor the local culture and its indigenous peoples, the Māori. The interior has been designed by Conran + Partners and will offer luxurious residential-style dwellings and plenty of skylights, giving natural illumination to this 195-room property. The hotel sits on land rich in Māori fisherman history, and the restaurant will be purchasing and using sustainable Kai Moana (seafood) from the Auckland fish market.
Cordis, Auckland
Executive Suite
This top-rated retreat’s focus is on your happiness and well-being, hence the name—Cordis translates to heart in Latin. The upscale hotel offers more than 400 rooms and is located near Upper Queen Street and Karangahape Road, which are known for vibrant nightlife, culture, and boutique shops. After a day of exploration at the nearby Auckland Art Gallery and Museum, return to the hotel for relaxation at the soothing, heated rooftop pool or treat yourself by visiting urban oasis Chuan Spa, which offers treatments based on the 5 natural Wu Xing elements. Or take advantage of the interactive kitchen, which offers you a unique opportunity to connect with the chefs who are preparing your meals.
