The Best Boutique Hotels in Wellington

Located near some of the city’s top landmarks, such as the Beehive and the Botanic Gardens, Sofitel Wellington – one of Wellington’s best hotels – places you right in the heart of the action. The design is more eccentric than your average Sofitel, with gold brocade wallpaper and vintage-style prints. Upgrade to the junior suite for a king-sized bed and garden views. The Jardin Grill restaurant serves up a delicious steak, while La Serre lounge bar offers a heady concoction of fruity cocktails and a generous gin selection.

For an affordable stay near the Terrace, book the James Cook Grand Chancellor. Rooms at this boutique hotel in Wellington are fairly neutral in design, yet spacious – sleeping up to five in the family room. Tuck into the all-you-can-eat breakfast and dinner buffet at Whitby’s on the 17th floor, or grab tapas and a glass of New Zealand wine at the Sojourn Cafe and Bar. There’s also an on-site gym, plus you can enjoy a complimentary pass to Les Mills Lambton Quay with a range of fitness classes.

For a more independent stay, book the U Residence, a boutique apart-hotel directly across the street from the Te Papa Museum. Choose from a studio sleeping two up to a two-bedroom apartment, all with smart TVs with Netflix, fully equipped kitchens and washer/dryers, plus balconies overlooking the city. While there is no restaurant on-site, you can order a continental breakfast to your room, plus there’s off-street parking available for a fee.

The Wellesley’s architectural history is just as remarkable as its chic, contemporary rooms. The neo-Georgian building was designed by architect Gary Young, and won several awards upon its completion in 1929. Once the site of a gentlemen’s club, this luxury Wellington hotel is now a local heritage institution. Cosy up by the crackling fire during winter at the 1815 bar, serving breakfast, drinks and casual food – try the braised pork donut with caramelised onions and fried pickles.

A trip to one of Wellington’s most popular beachside suburbs, Oriental Bay, will bring you to the chic, independently owned Ohtel. This 10-bedroom boutique hotel near Wellington offers individually styled rooms with mid-century furniture, kiwiana artwork and unique features such as record players in some rooms. Book the Suite for a freestanding bathtub and balcony overlooking Waitangi Park. Head downstairs for an all-day brunch made from local ingredients, including honey from Bee Fresh Farms and creamy feta and milk from Zany Zeus, a local organic dairy.

The Bolton Hotel is an independently owned, five-star hotel in Wellington, named after one of the first immigrant ships to hit New Zealand’s shores in the 1800s. Solo travellers should book the snug Sleep And Go room, while the Suites offer full kitchens and floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the leafy surrounding neighbourhood. In-room perks at this luxury hotel in Wellington include iPads, super soft bathrobes and a mini-fridge stuffed with local gourmet produce. Be sure to take advantage of the indoor pool, Jacuzzi and sauna; plus dinner at on-site restaurant Artisan is not to be missed.