Situated between the glistening Viaduct Harbour and fashionable Wynward Quarter of New Zealand’s largest city, this luxurious hotel epitomises the brand’s trademark French chicness and sophistication, blended with local refinement inspired by the country’s landscape and culture. A giant wall of water greets you in the lobby to reflect New Zealand’s maritime history, while contemporary Maori and Pacific artworks adorn the walls in honour of the country’s origins. The hotel is an idea base from which to explore the city, where the skyline features skyscrapers alongside extinct volcanoes, and the many attractions include the War Memorial & Auckland Museums, striking Sky Tower and renowned art gallery. The contemporary rooms are designed to impress, being generous in size and featuring chic interiors with private balconies, floor-to-ceiling windows (some with marina views) and probably the most comfortable beds in the Southern Hemisphere. The marble bathrooms are equally impressive, with deep soaking tubs, rain showers and French amenities. The hotel also has superb leisure facilities, with a state-of-the-art gym, spa with sauna plus a cool indoor lap pool and Jacuzzi. For dining and drinking there are a range of stylish options, from the signature Lava restaurant where back-lit amber marble walls evoke the volcanoes of the region and the chefs delight with tantalising dishes that blend the best local ingredients with French flair. 21 Viaduct Café is a casual eatery, with a waterside terrace. For drinks head to local’s favourite Sabrage Bar, where excellent champagnes are opened with a sabre in the traditional Napoleon fashion.
