3 Best Hotels in Wellington and the Wairarapa, New Zealand

Background Illustration for Hotels

Accommodations in Wellington range from no-frills backpacker hostels and motel units to sleek central hotels and classic bed-and-breakfasts in colonial-era villas.

As more people move into the city, apartments moonlighting as "serviced-apartment" hotels are also gaining steam. Rates are significantly more expensive than those of the average motel, but they're a good option if you're planning to stay a while. Most of these apartment-hotel hybrids have weekend or long-term specials.

Lodgings generally do not have air-conditioning, but the temperate weather in Wellington rarely warrants it.

The Claremont

$$ | 38 Regent St., Martinborough, 5711, New Zealand

In a quiet rural area just outside the village center, this motel complex has a variety of stylishly modern units to suit a range of budgets. All have decks; apartments have whirlpool baths as well. The studios and one- or two-bedroom apartments are in a garden environment and have ample parking.

Pros

  • Quiet location
  • Good modern lodgings
  • Spacious rooms of different sizes, with kitchenettes

Cons

  • No swimming pool or activities
  • You need to go into town for a restaurant
  • Some rooms affected by guest noise
38 Regent St., Martinborough, 5711, New Zealand
06-306–9162
Hotel Details
23 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

  • $$

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The Cobbler Hotel

$$ | 3 Eva St., Wellington, 6011, New Zealand

These well-appointed loft-style rooms and suites (including some with two bedrooms) in the heart of the city will have you feeling like a true local. Located on Hannah's Laneway, the Cobbler is a stone's throw from the Wellington Chocolate Factory, and it feels more like an upscale apartment block than a hotel. Before your arrival, the owners send you a unique entry code, so you don't have to fuss with check-in times or waiting in line. Don't take the lack of check-in desk as a sign of missing service: the owners are easily contacted should you need anything. Each room also comes with a bespoke, up-to-date guide of local events and eateries that you can take home as a souvenir.

Pros

  • Tasteful modern apartment style
  • Kitchenettes in every room
  • Above-and-beyond local service

Cons

  • Floor plans vary
  • No on-site parking (but it's available nearby)
  • Occasional street noise
3 Eva St., Wellington, 6011, New Zealand
04-910–8536
Hotel Details
12 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

  • $$

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Copthorne Resort Solway Park Wairarapa

$$ | 230 High St., Masterton, 5810, New Zealand

With 24 acres of landscaped grounds and gardens, this spot on the southern outskirts of Masterton is a large hotel for a small town, and the helpful staff and spacious rooms make it especially good if you are traveling with children. Perks like a pool, playground, and special kids’ menus give it added family appeal. The main restaurant showcases local ingredients and wine in a spacious setting with a cozy ambience.

Pros

  • Great restaurant
  • Tennis courts and indoor pool
  • Good off-road parking

Cons

  • Weekdays popular for corporate conferences
  • Can get crowded on weekends with special family rates
  • Dated decor
230 High St., Masterton, 5810, New Zealand
06-370–0500
Hotel Details
102 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

  • $$

Something incorrect in this review?

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