The Best Boutique Hotels to Book in Christchurch, New Zealand

A short walk from the Riccarton pioneer homestead in a leafy, residential suburb, this intimate Christchurch boutique hotel comprises just three individually designed suites. Dominated by a classical cream-and-brown colour scheme, all three come with super-sumptuous king-sized beds with patterned, padded headboards, Nespresso machines, and high thread-count Italian linens. A generous breakfast spread seals the deal, and you’re a mere 10-minute stroll from the cluster of restaurants along Riccarton Street.

Sitting amid beautiful landscaped grounds overlooking Lake Kaikainui just beyond the north edge of town, Peppers appeals to those looking for a countryside resort within easy reach of the airport and the city’s buzzy dining and nightlife scene. Golfing, tennis and fly-fishing for brown and rainbow trout are on the menu here, while the extra-spacious rooms, sheathed in classic creams, charcoal greys and dark leathers, provide a peaceful retreat. Dishes crafted from local produce await at the onsite restaurant.

A wrought-iron spiral staircase in a striking glass atrium welcomes you to one of the most unique boutique hotels in Christchurch. Originally the stables for the historic homestead of Mona Vale (across the street), the building has been sensitively restored and turned into four individually-styled, luxurious rooms that are all clean lines and neutral shades. Choose between the open-plan, multi-level Library Suite, a secluded garden studio, the Observatory suite beneath soaring eaves, or the Britten V1000 Workshop suite, where the legendary eponymous motorcycle was originally built.

Look out over the Christchurch skyline as you sip your pink gin- and candy floss-laced Pink Mistress cocktail and nibble on Baja fish tacos at the Muse’s open-air rooftop bar. Located in the heart of the CBD, this Christchurch boutique hotel taps into the city’s vibrant art scene, with each of the rooms featuring original works by one of five up-and-coming local artists, plus perks such as espresso machines. The earthquake memorial is just three blocks away, while you’ll find a cluster of popular cafes and bars right across the street.

You’ll recognize this Italian-style villa as soon as you see it. A lovely pink exterior welcomes guests into the five-star hotel which, since redevelopment, has earned its place on TripAdvisor’s Hall of Fame for winning the Excellence Award for six years in a row. The Classic Villa is tucked away on a private pedestrian boulevard, just a few minutes walking distance from the Art Gallery, Botanical Gardens and the main shopping precinct. There are 15 rooms to choose from, each named after a key historical figure, including Earnest Rutherford, known for splitting the atom, and Kate Sheppard, who pioneered the campaign that made New Zealand the first country to give women the right to vote. A common area with lounge and dining facilities keeps guests comfortable and replenished, and complimentary continental breakfasts are very much a part of the Classic Villa experience.

Over the years, The George has become a darling in the ranks of Travel and Leisure Magazine‘s World Best Awards — it has won the top accolade from 2006 to 2010, and again from 2012 to 2016. Along with a remarkable collection of 53 luxurious rooms, this incredible retreat boasts two separate restaurants, both of which are renowned for their minimalist take on all things fine dining. If you need a bit of a pick-me-up, there’s also an on-site gym, a private garden and library to enjoy in your downtime. The lush interior, with upscale furnishings and amenities abound, flows into a courtyard with a cozy fireplace that will keep all guests snug on the chilliest nights.

Originally built in 1861, Eliza’s Manor is a historic institution in its own right — in fact, it has been around since the city’s foundation. In its lifetime, the Manor has been a private residence, a hospital and two different luxury lodges (both carrying the name Eliza’s Manor, through the most recent incarnation received a temporary name change early on). The lush accommodation is named after Eliza Doolittle from the film My Fair Lady, and combines its rich history with the finest B&B amenities. The hotel comprises eight elegant suites, a function room, an antique-inspired guest lounge that regularly hosts high tea sessions, and a bar with a spacious courtyard right on its doorstep.

For something more contemporary and centrally-based, you can’t go wrong with the stylish Hotel 115. Designed to look and feel like the chic hotels you’ll find in some of Europe’s top destinations, this hotel makes full use of the heritage building in which it resides. The city tram runs through the hotel itself — something you’ll likely never see elsewhere. Eight spacious suites aptly contrast modern interior design conventions with the dramatic architecture enveloping it. The hotel is also very close to the Christchurch’s finest artistic attractions and the iconic Cathedral Square.

Hotel Montreal is a new addition to the Christchurch boutique hotel scene. Set right at the edge of Hagley Park, this sophisticated accommodation is a melting pot of exquisiteness: the rooms are European by the design, while the restaurant’s contemporary cuisine has a hint of Argentinian flavour. All 26 suites come with their own private balcony. The three-bedroom Penthouse is the finest of the lot, and includes a self-contained kitchen, separate living room, and a spacious dining area that is perfect for private functions and dinners.