Where to Find the Best Luxury Accommodations in Whanganui
Take your trip to this picturesque riverside city to the next level by staying in one of the luxury accommodations in Whanganui. From a characterful historic homestead among a wildlife sanctuary to a quaint B&B with an elevated position in the city, discerning travellers are sure to find something to suit. While Whanganui’s premium stays are limited, the variety and quality are there. Combine these premium accommodations with the advice we give in The Luxury Guide to Whanganui and you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience.
1. Rutland Arms Inn
More history and elegance can be found in the heart of Whanganui at the Rutland Arms Inn. Upstairs from an English-style restaurant (that closes at 10.30 pm and has no live music that might affect your slumber), the heritage suites of the boutique hotel boast queen-size Posturepedic beds, a mix of period and contemporary furniture, and ensuites – some with a spa bath. Most suites are generously spacious, while a stay includes a complimentary continental breakfast each morning. Check out alternative hotel-style stays in the 20 Best Hotels & Places to Stay in Whanganui.
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© Rutland Arms Inn2. Aotea Motor Lodge
Whanganui is primarily a city of motels where one of the most premium options is Aotea Motor Lodge. It’s a place to unwind with studios and apartments featuring luxurious two-person spa baths, specially chosen timber furniture and modern fixings. In your kitchenette, you have tea and plunger coffee from quality brands, as well as modern amenities like free WiFi and Sky TV. Guests also get free access to the local gym, as well as the convenience of being located on Whanganui’s main road. Compare this motel with others in the 10 Best Motels in Whanganui.
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© Aotea Motor Lodge3. Browns Boutique Bed and Breakfast
Stay in a gracious historical home, built in 1910, but with modern touches at the Browns Boutique Bed & Breakfast. Tranquillity is key here with exclusively two guest rooms decorated with art and furniture made by local artists, as well as quirky finds handpicked from local antique and op shops. One of the queen rooms boasts a gorgeous freestanding bath, while both have private entrances into the beautiful gardens where you can enjoy views of Mt Ruapehu from the B&B’s elevated position. Needless to say, breakfast is included and is the main event with a menu ranging from French crepes to a free-range cooked breakfast. See more boutique stays like this in the 10 Best Romantic Accommodations in Whanganui.
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© Browns Boutique Bed and Breakfast4. 151 On London Motel
A contemporary motel in the suburbs of Whanganui, 151 On London Motel is one of Whanganui’s larger and more upscale motels with economy rooms, studios, one- and two-bedroom suites, a honeymoon/executive suite and more. All rooms feature free unlimited WiFi, a kitchenette with plunger coffee and breakfast-making facilities, smart TVs and soundproofed walls. Some of the suites also have hotplates and an electric frypan. Guests can enjoy access to an on-site gym, cafe, barbecue area, laundry room, a large children’s playground and more.
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© 151 On London Motel5. Durie Vale Retreat
Another way to find luxury in Whanganui is getting your own space. One of the most well-presented of which is Durie Vale Retreat. This three-bedroom holiday home on the slopes of Durie Hill is not only a lovingly furnished and modernly renovated cottage but boasts a glorious position surrounded by native bush with views over Whanganui. Enjoy a barbecue on your elevated deck, make use of the free bikes on offer, and stay connected with free WiFi. What’s more, a full continental breakfast is included in your stay.
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© Durie Vale Retreat6. STUDIO @ 91
A sleepout with a private pool? Yes, please! Get an upscale bed & breakfast experience at STUDIO @ 91. This cute studio for one or two is set 20 m (66 ft) behind your host’s house, so it’s nice and private, allowing guests to relax among the landscaped gardens and by the pool at their leisure. The studio has contemporary fixings and furniture, including a TV with Chromecast. Breakfast is included in your stay. What’s more, you’re only a 20-minute walk from the city centre.
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© STUDIO @ 917. Bushy Park Historical Homestead
Soak in the splendour of yesteryear at the Bushy Park Historical Homestead. The twin, triple and queen rooms of this significant building radiate historical charm with intricate wood panelling, open fireplaces, bay windows and antique furniture to match. Dine in the dining room or out on the deck, just as the original guests would have, or enjoy a nightcap in front of the cosy fireplace in the lounge. What’s more, you’re likely to fall asleep to the sound of native birds, as this homestead is located on the grounds of a 100-ha (250-acre) wildlife sanctuary. Learn more about the sanctuary in the 10 Best Things to Do in Whanganui.
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© Bushy Park Historical HomesteadMore About Luxury Accommodations in Whanganui
That’s it for our list of the best luxury accommodations in Whanganui, but it’s by no means the end of our advice! Check out more guides to help you plan the perfect trip to Whanganui city:
- 8 Luxury Experiences in Whanganui
- 15 Best Things to Do in Whanganui
- 10 Best Things to Do in the Whanganui National Park
And if there’s anything we’ve missed, you’re likely to find it in The Luxury Guide to Whanganui.
Sources:
The information in this guide has been compiled from our extensive research, travel and experiences across New Zealand and the South Pacific, accumulated over more than a decade of numerous visits to each destination. Additional sources for this guide include the following:
- Tourism New Zealand (General travel advice - Updated [2024])
- Tourism Export Council New Zealand (Tourism trade association - Updated [2024])
- TIA (Independent tourism association - Updated [2024])
- NZ Māori Tourism (Official Māori Tourism platform - Updated [2024])
- Department of Conservation (Tracks, hikes, campsites and more - Updated [2024])
- Council websites and freedom camping maps (Local travel advice region by region - Updated [2024])
- Tiaki Promise (Care for people place and culture - Updated [2024])
Our editorial standards: At NZ Pocket Guide, we uphold strict editorial standards to ensure accurate and quality content.
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