25 BEST Hotels in Wellington 🛎️ [2023]

Where to Find the Best Hotels in Wellington

It’s not every day that you get to stay in a stylish hotel in New Zealand. Once you arrive in a city like Wellington, it’s time to treat yourself to one of the luxury accommodations or elegant-yet-budget-friendly hotels. All of the capital’s hotels on this list have superb locations in and around the city centre, offer essentials like free WiFi, and offer that famous Kiwi hospitality. Check out some of our favourites in this list of the best hotels in Wellington.

While you’re here, check out the 20 Incredible Things to Do in Wellington and plan your trip using the only Wellington guide you’ll ever need; The Complete Guide to Wellington.

1. Sofitel Wellington – The Best Hotel in Wellington

A five-star hotel that rarely fails to impress, Sofitel Wellington brings the French flair of the international hotel chain to the capital, boasting sophisticated vintage-inspired decor and indulgent cuisine. Socialise at the elegant La Serre Bar and dine at Jardin Grill where you’ll be able to watch the chefs work their magic in the open kitchen. In addition, the hotel overlooks the iconic Wellington Botanic Garden, which alone makes Sofitel easily one of the top luxury accommodations in Wellington. No wonder Sofitel Wellington also makes it onto The 50 Best Accommodations in Wellington.

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2. Bolton Hotel – Five-Star Hotel in Wellington

The five-star Bolton Hotel is perfect to celebrate a special occasion. The hotel boasts the largest city centre room sizes, from the “Sleep & Go Studio” to the grand “Bolton”, “Presidential” or “Residence Suites”. Whatever abode you decide to stay in, you’ll have access to your own kitchen facilities, as well as fine dining at the Artisan restaurant and casual dining at the Lobby Cafe & Bar. The hotel also has a fitness room and indoor lap pool.

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3. The Intrepid Hotel – Trendy Hotel Near The Opera House

The funky new kid on the block might be one of the latest hotels in Wellington but the unique industrial and old-school decor certainly makes The Intrepid Hotel worth a mention on this list of the best hotels in Wellington. While we could talk about its distinct character all day, it’s also worth mentioning the perks of a 50″ smart TV in each room, free WiFi and complimentary drinks and snacks. They also offer a complimentary turndown service with lights and music set the mood, while The Puffin bar downstairs offers an elegant but casual place to relax with New Zealand wine.

Check The Intrepid Hotel out:

4. Ohtel Wellington – Boutique Hotel on Oriental Parade

A chic five-star boutique hotel on Oriental Parade, Ohtel Wellington is furnished with vintage and class in mind. Each room has its own unique style and includes complimentary high-speed WiFi, espresso coffee and Sky TV, while downstairs is the delightful Ohtel Pantry offering a pleasant meeting space over a coffee or craft beer. Rooms are best suited to solo travellers, couples and business travellers, with the option of a large suite with a private balcony if you need more room.

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5. Mövenpick Hotel Wellington – Accor Hotel in Wellington

More five-star elegance awaits at the Mövenpick Hotel Wellington. One of the newest luxury hotels in Wellington, the premium ice cream/up-and-coming hotel brand by Accor offers a “Chocolate Hour” for guests to watch the chocolatiers work their artistry and sample some of the good stuff themselves. As for rooms, you’ll be treated to luxurious bedding, smart TVs with streaming services, a pillow menu, as well as drink-making facilities. For breakfast, lunch and/or dinner, delight yourself at the Forage Restaurant and Bar. Find this hotel on The Terrace, nestled between Wellington’s hills and the city centre.

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6. InterContinental Wellington – Luxury Hotel in Wellington

Settle for nothing less than absolute luxury when you stay at the InterContinental Wellington. The five-star hotel located adjacent to the Wellington Waterfront and city centre offers a vast array of services, including babysitting, nannying, shoe shining, private limousines and much more. As for rooms, choose from three types: “Classic Rooms” with city views with twin or king beds, “Executive Rooms” with harbour views and a spa bath, and “Suites” with a lounge and panoramic views of the city. The hotel has a fantastic fine dining restaurant and a more casual eatery at the Lobby Lounge famous for its high tea. For upscale stays like this, take a look at the 15 BEST Luxury Accommodations in Wellington.

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7. QT Wellington – Unique Hotel in Wellington

For uniqueness and style points, QT Wellington is a hotel well worth treating yourself to while staying in Wellington’s CBD. The design-driven hotel boasts a captivating collection of art to admire, as well as sublime restaurants and a cocktail bar. While all your room options at QT Wellington are rather lavish, the “QT Gallery Harbourview Room” is a real treat featuring custom-made wallpaper, a Bose sound system, an espresso machine and a private terrace patio with harbour views. See more stays like this in the 10 Most Romantic Accommodations in Wellington.

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8. Doubletree By Hilton Wellington – Hotel in Wellington CBD

Stay in the modern international-standard hotel rooms of Doubletree By Hilton Wellington where you’re moments away from key places, like the Cable Car leading to the Botanic Gardens. As well as an enviable location, this beautifully restored historical building can’t help but impress as soon as you walk through the lobby with its marble, copper and warm wood accents. Stay within the appealing surroundings by booking in for dinner at the Asian-inspired Spring Kitchen and enjoy pre-dinner coffee or cocktails at the 1928 Lounge.

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9. Rydges Wellington – The Best Family Hotel in Wellington

It’s not too hard to get a good deal at Rydges Wellington, especially if travelling with little ones who stay in the existing bedding for free. The 4.5-star Rydges hotel in the city centre offers a range of sleek and comfortable rooms where it’s worth upgrading to a “Deluxe Room” for a private balcony or idyllic harbour views. These rooms also include amenities, such as an iPod docking station, coffee plunger and Sky Movies. Every room has a convenient kitchenette, while fine dining is only an elevator ride away at the Portlander. See more family-friendly hotels like this in 15 Best Family Accommodations in Wellington.

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10. Rydges Wellington Airport – The Closest Hotel to Wellington Airport

Another hotel by Rydges, this one is hugely popular due to its proximity to the airport. If you need to catch an early flight, you can’t do better than Rydges Wellington Airport, which is just an escalator ride from the terminal. Enjoy hotel rooms with options for all travellers, modern fixings and furnishings at this upscale hotel with facilities like free WiFi, in-house movies and a gym. However, we recommend eating at the terminal for a more satisfying breakfast and variety instead of its on-site restaurant.

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11. CityLife Wellington – Upscale Apartment Hotel in Wellington

Home-away-from-home meets luxury when you stay at CityLife Wellington by Heritage Hotels. The five-star studios and suites are complete with kitchenettes and enough room to lounge in comfort. That’s not to say that you shouldn’t try the ultra-modern The Living Room restaurant at least once during your stay, which serves complimentary chips and dips in the early evening. Alternatively, explore the eateries of the city which are on your doorstep. Other amenities include a gym, free WiFi, airport transfers and a car park. For more options with cooking facilities, check out the 10 Best Self-Catering Accommodations in Wellington.

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12. Quest on Johnston – Popular Apartment Hotel Chain in Wellington

Pretend that you live in Wellington full-time with the fully self-contained serviced apartments at Quest on Johnston. While Quest has multiple apartment hotels in the city centre, we like the one on Johnston Street as it’s conveniently located between the waterfront, train station and the city centre. The selection of studio and one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments provide more than enough space and amenities for most travellers wanting to enjoy a functional place to stay with a kitchenette/kitchen and ensuite bathroom in an open-plan living space. Note that you’ll also find Quest Atrium, Quest 256 Lambton, Quest on The Terrace, Quest on Thorndon, Quest on Lambton and Quest Wellington, so shop around!

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13. Boulcott Suites – Luxury Apartment Hotel in Wellington Central

Find elegance, space and style at the five-star Boulcott Suites. The apartment hotel offers stylish studio apartments, single-level suites and fully-equipped four-bedroom townhouses, so there’s something to suit all types of luxury travellers. While undercover parking is available, guests will receive complimentary WiFi and Sky TV, as well as a private kitchen with an espresso machine and laundry facilities – ideal for an extended stay. What’s more, the suites are serviced daily.

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14. Naumi Studio Hotel Wellington – Stylish Wellington Hotel on Cuba Street

Inject some whimsy into your stay in Wellington at the Naumi Studio Hotel Wellington. You’ll either love or hate the design of this popping hotel where floral prints are its jam, but at least it complements the essence of Wellington’s famous bohemian hub on which the hotel is located, Cuba Street. There are six room types to choose from, from affordable luxury all the way up to splurging luxury, all boasting high-speed WiFi, a smart TV, bedside USB sockets, a sweet treat on arrival and a no single-use plastic policy!

Check Naumi Studio Hotel Wellington out:

15. Oaks Wellington Hotel – Popular Hotel on Courtenay Place

What was once a Ford assembly plant is now a fresh and modern nine-storey hotel in the heart of Wellington CBD. From hotel rooms to fully self-contained apartments, Oaks Wellington Hotel has more than what you are looking for. While your room may allow you to fully self-cater, there’s the option of Oak and Vine restaurant open for breakfast and dinner with Kiwi-meets-Mediterranean cuisine. Other amenities include Bluetooth alarm clocks, WiFi and air-conditioning, while level nine rooms also have balconies.

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16. Copthorne Hotel Wellington, Oriental Bay – Upscale Hotel in Oriental Bay

For an alternative location, choose the Copthorne Hotel Wellington in the beachside suburb of Oriental Bay. The upscale hotel is far from the hustle and bustle of the city centre, yet only a 10-minute walk away. While there are rooms to suit most travellers, consider the “Deluxe Harbourview Room” with floor-to-ceiling windows capturing the harbour views or the “Junior Suite” with its own spacious living and dining area perfect for entertaining. Sip wine from your private balcony or head to the hotel’s One80 Restaurant & Cocktail Lounge to watch the light transition from sunset to sparkling city lights.

Check Copthorne Hotel Wellington out:

Copthorne Hotel Wellington, Oriental Bay

17. James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor – Wellington Hotel on The Terrace

Stay right in the middle of the action at the James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor located on The Terrace. The Cable Car, Parliament and shopping/dining precincts are on your doorstep to enjoy in between nights in your luxurious “Club King Room” featuring a welcome snack platter, complimentary guest ironing, evening turndown, espresso machines and more. The on-site restaurant, Whitby’s, offer buffet and a la carte dining, as well as high tea.

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18. Wellesley Boutique Hotel – Wellington Hotel Near the Ferry Terminal

Relax and unwind among the historical charm of the Wellesley Boutique Hotel. The hotel is an excellent option for those seeking single or double rooms; for business or for leisure, while its position in Lambton Quarter means you’re in the business district and with plenty of dining options. Rooms feature charming neo-Georgian details to enhance the historical aspects of the building. Some rooms have additional enhancements, such as an ensuite with a clawfoot bath.

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19. Microtel by Wyndham Wellington – Budget Hotel in Wellington

One of the cheapest hotels in the city, Microtel by Wyndham Wellington offers private ensuite rooms ideal for solo travellers and couples. All rooms have a work desk, drink-making facilities, a smart TV with streaming services, free WiFi, a personal fridge and contemporary art and interior design. Note that most rooms are quite compact with the exception of the more spacious “Business Queen”. What’s more, you have a nice central location within walking distance of most attractions. For more affordable stays like this, check out the 15 BEST Budget Accommodations in Wellington.

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20. Astelia Apartment Hotel – Apartment Hotel on Willis Street

For a self-contained apartment in Wellington’s CBD that’s a little more sophisticated, set your sights on the Astelia Apartment Hotel. The studios to premium one-bedroom apartments invite you in with soothing tones and are kitted out with all of the quality fittings, including the all-important laundry facilities and TV with Chromecast. Although you have some self-catering facilities at your disposal, you’re just a short walk away from a host of restaurants and cafes on Cuba Street and the Capital Market!

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21. U Boutique Hotel – Affordable Boutique Hotel in Wellington

Impossible to miss with its quirky murals on the exterior, U Boutique Hotel is a compact hotel with stylish rooms for all travellers, including families and groups. Stay in one of their queen or twin rooms with a shared bathroom to save money or upgrade to ensuite rooms and even a more lavish apartment with three bedrooms. There is a total of only 13 rooms at this boutique hotel on Frederick Street.

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22. Willis Wellington Hotel – Cheap Hotel in Wellington

Stay in simple yet utterly affordable hotel accommodation in Wellington’s Cuba Quarter just a few minutes’ walk from the centre. Willis Wellington Hotel is a three-star hotel with clean and comfortable rooms and all your expected hotel amenities. Although the hotel doesn’t have a restaurant, its location has you in the middle of some of the city’s top restaurants. If you need inspiration, check out The Food Guide to Wellington: Places to Eat & Food Tours.

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23. Novotel Wellington – Wellington Hotel on Lambton Quay

It’s all too easy at Novotel Wellington, located in the heart of the capital on Lambton Quay. The rooms of this 4.5-star hotel bask in natural light and offer sensational views of the city. Enjoy modern and simplistically stylish rooms with options including “Superior Rooms” with either a king bed, twin doubles or a city view. The “Executive Room” is the creme-de-la-creme of the hotel with an espresso machine, iPod docking station, mineral water stations and more. Plus, get fuelled for your city exploration or meetings at the Caucus Restaurant serving buffet breakfast, all-day dining and an a la carte dinner.

Check Novotel Wellington out:

24. Bay Plaza Hotel – Cheap Hotel on Oriental Parade

Boasting an enviable position in Wellington’s city centre beach spot, Oriental Parade, Bay Plaza Hotel offers a great location in Wellington, especially for the price! Enjoy amazing vistas from the 11-floor building, whether it’s in one of the queen, king, twin or suite rooms. All of your basic hotel essentials are here, from the ensuite bathroom to the hot drink-making facilities in your room. There’s also an on-site restaurant which makes for an easy breakfast, lunch or dinner.

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25. Shepherds Arms Hotel – Cheap Hotel in Thorndon

For classic above-a-pub accommodation at an affordable price, choose the Shepherds Arms Hotel. Single rooms have a shared bathroom, while the queen suite has an ensuite. Other room types are available. Join the locals downstairs at the Shepherds Arms Restaurant and enjoy free WiFi and free parking. The Shepherds Arms Hotel is within a 10-minute walk of the city centre.

Check Shepherds Arms Hotel out:

[CLOSED] Distinction Wellington, Century City Hotel

Stylish, contemporary and a home away from home awaits at the Century City Hotel. The 89 rooms are made up of studios, apartments and luxurious penthouses with home comforts like a kitchen, laundry machines, leather lounge suites, balconies and free WiFi. All in all, you’ll wish you lived here. There are apartments to suit solo travellers to large groups, while the private kitchen facilities in each suite are some of the best in a city hotel. What’s most, Century City Hotel is conveniently located right in the city centre.

[CLOSED] C Hotel

For that Wellington hotel experience at a more affordable price, the C Hotel is a marvellous option. Part of the CQ Hotel, the C Hotel is the three-star wing yet still provides access to luxurious facilities such as the indoor heated pool, spa pool, restaurant, cafe and bar. The C hotel has 114 rooms made up of king split and twin rooms, as well as junior suites with kitchen facilities. Each includes at least an ensuite shower, TV, WiFi and tea/coffee-making facilities.

[CLOSED] Grand Mercure Hotel

Stay at the Cuba Quarter’s luxurious Grand Mercure Wellington. The 4.5-star hotel is adorned in fabulous art and offers delightful cuisine at their Forage Kitchen + Bar. During your stay, your room will have premium amenities, such as an espresso machine and Bose sound system, as well as a pillow menu. Guests also have access to an indoor heated pool, gym, sauna and city running maps to keep wellness in check.

More Hotels in Wellington

That’s it for our list of the best hotels in Wellington, but it’s by no means the end of our Wellington tips! Check out these articles to make the most of your time in Wellington:

Finally, if there’s anything we’ve missed, you’re likely to find it in The Complete Travel Guide to Wellington.

Author

Laura S.

This article was reviewed and published by Laura, editor in chief and co-founder of NZ Pocket Guide. Since arriving solo in New Zealand over 10 years ago and with a background in journalism, her mission has been to show the world how easy (and awesome) it is to travel New Zealand. She knows Aotearoa inside-out and loves sharing tips on how best to experience New Zealand’s must-dos and hidden gems. Laura is also editor of several other South Pacific travel guides and is the co-host of NZ Pocket Guide’s live New Zealand travel Q&As on YouTube.

Contact Laura via our contact page