14 Best Hotels in Christchurch and Canterbury, New Zealand

Part lodge, part boutique hotel, these slick accommodations were built around all that remained of the original Braemar Lodge—an impressive two-story-high river stone fireplace. Rooms are big and have expansive views across the river plain to Hanmer and its snowy backdrop (in winter). The warm sunny aspect is sheltered from the cold southerly winds that sweep through this area so you'll get real value from your own deck. The interior is neutrally contemporary; the rooms all have gas fires, swiveling TVs, and marble bathrooms. The on-premises Altitude Restaurant is worth a visit.  

Just minutes from the airport and 10 minutes from central Christchurch, this family-owned, resort-style accommodation includes a heated indoor pool, sauna, spa, fitness center, and tennis court. Rooms are quiet, large, and comfortable, with the latest TVs and generous bathrooms. The stylishly landscaped terrace area, with a big open fireplace, is a great place to relax with a drink just about all year-round. Staff are superfriendly and helpful.

As Christchurch's tallest central city building (once an office tower), this is a prime location with spectacular views overlooking historic Victoria Square and the Avon River. Comfortable beds and quiet zones guarantee a good night's sleep. There's a chic restaurant, café, and bar, plus a well equipped gym. The Crowne Plaza is in walking distance to nearly everything in the city, and just around the corner from historic New Regent Street and Isaac Theatre Royal.

This 11-floor, upscale, New Zealand--owned and -operated hotel is a postearthquake renovation with a contemporary design. It's an easy walk to all the main shopping and dining areas, with the acclaimed O.G.B. Bar next door. Expect the latest technology and top-quality bedding and room comfort.

Set in beautifully landscaped gardens, this hotel is across the road from the thermal pools, and staying here will remind you of the grand, genteel era in which it was built. There are garden suites and three-bedroom self-contained villas that are great for families, too. Breakfast is served on the front courtyard or in Isobel's Restaurant, which also offers excellent evening dining and a top local wine list.

Inside the beautifully restored Old Government Building built in 1913, with its sweeping central staircase and high ceilings, the Heritage has suites in an Italian High Renaissance Palazzo style complete with stained-glass windows and dark-wood paneling. It has sports facilities, a fitness center, a heated lap pool, sauna, spa, and the highly rated O.G.B. Bar on the ground floor.

One of the city's newer boutique hotels, the Mayfair is within walking distance to the CBD and just a short stroll away from Hagley Park—the rooms are clean, bright, and modern with all the latest technologies. The Top of The House rooms and suites are a bit more expensive but have great views from a private balcony over the city. There's a bustling café on ground level. A breakfast package can also be purchased as an extra with the room. 

From the moment you walk into the futuristic lobby you will receive a warm welcome from staff who know the city well and can help with directions and recommendations. The comfortable, smart rooms have views overlooking the Southern Alps, New Regent Street, or directly on to the still-damaged cathedral. The restaurant has clever nooks designed for sole diners, a nod to the many business travelers the hotel attracts.

Just 20 minutes from Christchurch and almost hidden by glorious century-old gardens is one of New Zealand's most important historic homes, now an award-winning luxury retreat. Built in 1895 in Queen Anne style for Sir Heaton Rhodes, a high-profile Member of Parliament of the time, the three-story homestead has been restored to its former grandeur, yet has all the modern amenities you would expect in an exclusive luxury lodge. Each of Otahuna's seven suites has a distinctive character and reveals a different element of the Otahuna story. Original fireplaces complement the rooms and the wisteria-blue drawing room is divine. Be sure to wander the 30 acres of gardens (guided tours available), and take a dip in the heated pool (summer only). Do spend some time in the potager garden and the kitchen with the chef to learn some of his secrets.

Set on leafy Latimer Square, this newly built low-rise hotel is just a few minutes' walk from the central city, but far enough away to be quiet and relaxed. Many of the rooms and family-size suites overlook the square, and there is a spacious penthouse taking up the entire top level. It's just a short walk to the Transitional "Cardboard" Cathedral, a must-visit symbol of the new Christchurch. Do dine in the splendor of Bloody Mary's steakhouse restaurant—and don't forget to ask about the intriguing story of how it got its name.

This property has peaceful apartments and studios set off Amuri Avenue, the main street into Hanmer. Upstairs rooms have balconies with views of Mt. Isobel, and two apartments have private courtyards. Handcrafted slat beds and furniture have been installed in all the rooms, and each unit has either a full kitchen or kitchenette. A continental breakfast is available on request.

Just 5 minutes from the airport, the Sudima has a gym and on-site restaurant including buffet dinner. Canterbury Museum, International Antarctic Centre, and Isaac Theatre Royal are nearby cultural highlights. From 6 am, a full buffet breakfast can be purchased as an extra in the room price, and there is a small à la carte menu that can be ordered from.

Considered a top golf resort in New Zealand, Terrace Downs is a good place to base yourself for a vacation away from the crowds. Although not strictly in Methven, Terrace Downs is a 20-minute drive away, with spectacular views of the Rakaia Gorge and the looming presence of Mt. Hutt. Accommodations are in a series of contemporary one- to three-bedroom villas and larger fairway chalets perched on a ridge above the clubhouse and restaurant, with views from their balconies over the golf course and of the mountains.