The 10 Best Art And Culture Hotels In New Zealand

Solitaire Lodge offers an unforgettable experience that allows its guests to enjoy the abundance of natural beauty that New Zealand has to offer. The sophisticated suites available feature large windowed living areas that give panoramic views of the stunning Lake Tarawera. Priding themselves on the range of activities offered, guests can enjoy world class trout fishing, private flights to the volcanic White Island and trips to natural geothermal baths. Solitaire Lodge is the perfect accommodation to appreciate the outdoors.

Cotter House is set in the fifth oldest house in Auckland, with a fascinating history that dates back to 1847. The story of the building and its regency architecture starts with an English colonist who built the house as a symbol of good fortune in a new country, and it has since been owned by multiple families. Now an art centre and private retreat, Cotter House is decorated with exquisite sculptures and paintings by renowned artists, making it a haven for art lovers. The artworks sit in perfect balance with the elegant and sophisticated interior design.

Located in the Bay of Islands in the Northland region, Kauri Cliffs Lodge offers some of the best views for which New Zealand is so famous. Spanning 6000 acres, this luxury lodge features a golf course designed by David Harman that was the home to the Kiwi Challenge PGA Golf event and is ranked as one of best courses in the world. Inside the lodge elegant furniture and artwork can be found that make this hotel stand out on multiple levels. The surrounding area also has a fascinating Maori history, making Kauri Cliffs a great location for travellers of all types.

Renowned in Auckland for its distinct design and comfort, Hotel Debrett is an exciting boutique hotel set in the bustling centre of New Zealand’s largest city. The hotel features a striking exterior of bright colours and geometric shapes, while the interior is filled with a stunning and eclectic mix of furnishings and artworks. Running throughout the hotel is designer Michelle Deery’s bespoke carpet, made from 100% New Zealand wool. The hotel prides itself on its fusion of style and comfort, claiming to be a ‘home away from home – but with better service’.

Located in New Zealand’s capital, The Museum Hotel is internationally renowned for the range of art it has on display. The hotel exudes an aura of decadence and luxury, and is aptly named with a plethora of extraordinary artwork being displayed throughout. Information on the exhibited art is available through books and from the helpful staff, allowing visitors to further enjoy the gallery. Outside of its wealth of art, the hotel is also famous for its name ‘the hotel that moved,’ with the entire structure being relocated via railway tracks in 1993 to make way for The Museum of New Zealand Te Papa.

Boasting a secluded and rejuvenating atmosphere, Lake Okareka Lodge sits on a peninsula within Lake Okareka in Rotorua. Incredible views, inspiring design and luxurious comfort meet in this breathtaking hotel, allowing for a unique New Zealand experience. The restaurant of the lodge adapts to the desires of its visitors and prepares unforgettable cuisine that tastes as good as it looks. Accepting guests by invitation only, Lake Okareka Lodge asks interested visitors to send requests to stay.

Woodlyn Park is an entertainment motel park that is located close to the Waitomo Caves in the Waitomo District. Featuring a range of world-first types of accommodation, visitors can choose to stay in a hobbit house, a train carriage, a warplane or a battleship. These unique experiences are tailored to fit in with their exteriors, with a nautical themed interior in the Waitanic Ship Motel and the unmistakable round windows from J. R Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings in the Hobbit Motel. The park is also home to an abundance of local fauna and flora, and hosts family festivals that are explore ‘kiwi culture’.

Designed and run by a New Zealand family of architects, Hapuku Lodge is a fantastic blend of design, location and innovation. Set in the beautiful area of Kaikoura, Hapuku Lodge offers a range of accommodation types, with the most notable being their Tree Houses. These lodges sit 10 metres above the ground in a canopy of native trees, offering fantastic views of the surrounding mountains and coastline. The Tree Houses also contain stunning interior design, with the furniture being made by local craftsmen from a rich range of woods.

Eagles Nest is a luxury accommodation located on an island-like peninsula in the Bay of Islands. Designed to maximise views of the surrounding beauty, this accommodation exudes sophisticated contemporary design in an open and tranquil environment. The five separate villas each explore this brief in unique ways, allowing distinct calming and romantic atmospheres. Eagle Nest also offers delicious cuisines, spa therapy and numerous activities to further enjoy the paradise of the Bay of Islands.

The Giants House is located in Akaroa and has a history dating back to 1880. Originally owned by a bank manager and now by an artist, The Giants House offers a unique mix of grandeur and imaginative experiences. Gaining its name from its impressive size and aesthetic, this hotel is committed to art and features its own contemporary gallery. The hotel’s sculpture garden is also well-known and is filled with many striking mosaic sculptures. Designed by artist Josie Martin, these large and colourful artworks attract both locals and tourists, and make this hotel perfect for art enthusiasts.