The mere mention of New Zealand is enough to get plenty of backpackers and outdoor lovers ready for the road. With an extraordinary collection of natural parks, surfing and hiking opportunities, and a boundless expanse of unspoiled landscapes to explore, the country that’s known as Middle Earth is one of the most spectacular destinations on earth for adventure. However, when you’re in New Zealand, it’s also worth immersing yourself in the rich Kiwi heritage and Māori culture. To start with, you could stay in one of the many historic hotels on the land. Travel to bygone years with the best heritage hotels in New Zealand and gain a deeper appreciation of this beautiful country. Check out our list of the 10 best heritage hotels in New Zealand.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) the property's historical and cultural significance, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on April 09, 2024.
1. Esplanade Hotel (from USD 82)
Esplanade Hotel is a boutique beachfront hotel in the village of Devonport, Auckland, that first opened its doors in 1903. The historic Devonport landmark is listed as a Historic Places Category 1 in Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga. Along with its rich history, the timeless décor, modern amenities, and fantastic views of Waitematā Harbour keep the stately hotel a popular option for local and international travelers. Esplanade Hotel also features an in-house restaurant and bar that are both well-known among locals for serving top-notch food and drinks. Plus, Esplanade Hotel’s beach location and proximity to Auckland attractions like Takapuna Beach make for a convenient vacation in Devonport.
The Esplanade Hotel
Address: 1 Victoria Road, Devonport
271.64 km (168.8 mi) from Tongariro National Park
2. Prince’s Gate Hotel (from USD 114)
Travelers typically flock to Rotorua for adventure, but Prince’s Gate Hotel offers another reason to visit the city. Built in Waihi in 1897 with iconic Kauri timber, it was dismantled and reassembled in Rotorua using the original materials in 1917. Among the guests of the renowned hotel are King George V and Queen Mary (then the Duke and Duchess of Cornwall and York). However, even beyond its strong history, Prince’s Gate Hotel is worth experiencing. The guest rooms are elegantly furnished, while hotel facilities are top-notch including three thermal pools, a plunge pool, and a sauna. Just a stone’s throw away from the hotel is the famous Government Gardens and the acclaimed Polynesian Spa.
Prince's Gate Hotel
Address: 1057 Arawa Street
130.93 km (81.4 mi) from Tongariro National Park
3. Hilton Lake Taupo (from USD 263)
This resort-style heritage hotel may be housed in a beautiful 19th-century building, but Hilton Lake Taupo is well-appointed to suit the modern traveler. Surrounded by the breathtaking scenery of mountains, lakes, and volcanic landscape, the world-class hotel is among the top places to stay on North Island. Each room is designed to make the most of the stunning locale with large windows and a balcony looking over Lake Taupo or the hotel’s outdoor heated pool. Tennis courts and a fitness center are available on site for guests who have gotten their fill of nearby attractions such as Taupo Motorsports Park, Kinloch Golf Club, and Huka Falls. At the end of the day, guests can enjoy lake views and fresh regional cuisine at Bistro Lago before retreating to their suites.
Hilton Lake Taupo
Address: 80-100 Napier Road
69.9 km (43.5 mi) from Tongariro National Park
4. Duke of Marlborough Hotel (from USD 153)
Established in 1827, Duke of Marlborough Hotel is one of the oldest hotels in New Zealand. The handsome heritage hotel is known for stately architecture, plush furnishings, and a wide range of artworks, photos, and prints curated by artist Lester Hall. Nestled by the waterfront and overlooking the famed Bay of Islands, guests are treated to a daily display of enchanting sunsets—and even al fresco meals by the water when the weather is pleasant. Sample fresh seafood and an extensive wine and beer menu at the award-winning Duke of Marlborough Restaurant. With the hotel’s location in the historic city of Russell near attractions such as Pompallier Mission and Printery and Russell Museum, this is an ideal retreat for anyone delving into Kiwi heritage.
The Duke Of Marlborough
Address: 35 The Strand
456.18 km (283.5 mi) from Tongariro National Park
5. Art Deco Masonic Hotel (from USD 209)
Make your way to Art Deco Masonic Hotel to experience old-world style and elegance in Napier, a city hailed as the Art Deco Capital of the World. Here, each bedroom is uniquely decorated, evoking the bold and opulent Art Deco style of the 1920s and 1930s. Guests who want to make the most of the hotel’s waterfront location can opt for a suite with a balcony and ocean views. Also notable are the award-winning Emporium Eatery & Bar and the iconic Irish pub known as The Rose.
Art Deco Masonic Hotel
Address: 2 Tennyson Street
118.6 km (73.7 mi) from Tongariro National Park
6. Cardrona Hotel (from USD 123)
Nestled between Queenstown and Wānaka, the iconic Cardrona Hotel sits in a beautiful alpine valley surrounded by rolling mountains and lush gardens. Founded in 1863, the historic hotel is one of New Zealand’s oldest hotels, providing accommodations as far back as the Cardrona Valley gold rush era. To this day, travelers flock to Cardrona Hotel for its cozy rooms and award-winning restaurant and bar. Many Kiwis recognize the hotel’s façade, which became among the country’s most photographed buildings through the decades. From the hotel, it is only about 25 minutes to Cardrona Ski Field and 40 minutes to Queenstown Airport. Skiers will appreciate the ski drying room on site as well as a hot tub that offers a soothing way to end a day on the slopes.
Cardrona Hotel
Address: 2312 Cardrona Valley Road
833.92 km (518.2 mi) from Tongariro National Park
7. Heritage Christchurch (from USD 189)
Take a step back in time at Heritage Christchurch, a luxury all-suite hotel in Christchurch that dates back to 1913. Listed as a Historic Places Category 1, the restored Neo-Renaissance style building is a notable landmark in the heart of Garden City. With one-, two-, and three-bedroom self-contained apartments tastefully furnished and fitted with modern amenities, the hotel is a fantastic sanctuary overflowing with old-world charm. To relax, guests may visit the health club for the heated indoor lap pool, hot tub, and sauna on the premises. Heritage Christchurch is in a premium spot for sightseeing around 1 km (0.6 mi) from Canterbury Museum at Hagley Park.
Heritage Christchurch
Address: 28-30 Cathedral Square
541.72 km (336.7 mi) from Tongariro National Park
8. Larnach Lodge at Larnach Castle (from USD 88)
Nestled in the spectacular 35-ac (14-ha) gardens and grounds of New Zealand’s only castle, Larnach Lodge at Larnach Castle dates back to 1871 when it was built by William Larnach. The splendid colonial farm building is a gem on the South Island that strikes the perfect balance of grandiosity in the heart of nature. All 12 rooms are gracefully appointed, with themes that honor the heritage of Larnach Castle and its grounds. Postcard-pretty views of the harbor and Otago Peninsula beckon outside every window of the luxury boutique accommodation. A wealth of one-of-a-kind experiences await, whether you enjoy savoring three-course meals at the castle’s magnificent dining room or exploring the award-winning gardens.
Larnach Lodge at Larnach Castle
Address: 145 Camp Road, Pukehiki, Portobello, New Zealand, 9054
846.23 km (525.9 mi) from Tongariro National Park
9. Left Bank (from USD 117)
Great value for money with comfortable, spacious rooms and excellent food.
Secure bike storage, off-street parking, and access to hotel kitchen and dining area.
Central location, perfect for Twin Coast Cycle Trail and close to shops and activities.
Delicious meals cooked to order, showcasing local food and wine. Excellent breakfast and dinner options.
Find a laid-back retreat at Left Bank in Kaikohe, a small town known for the pioneer village featuring restored historic buildings such as the oldest courthouse in the country, a prison, and even an 1875 cottage, among others. The heritage hotel was originally built for the Bank of New Zealand in 1910 with polished floors, fireplaces, and ornate ceilings. Accommodations are comfortable, whether you opt for a bed in the dormitory or a cozy private room.
Left Bank
Address: 150 Broadway
449.77 km (279.5 mi) from Tongariro National Park
10. Chateau Tongariro Hotel (from USD 65)
In 1887, the iwi Ngati Tūwharetoa gifted their tribal land to the people of New Zealand. Now, tucked amid this expanse surrounded by the sacred mountain peaks of Ruapehu, Ngauruhoe, and Tongariro is Chateau Tongariro Hotel. The heritage hotel is part of the larger Tongariro National Park with lush forests, waterfalls, and endless Whakapapa skiing and hiking opportunities. Elegant furnishings and spectacular National Park views are par for the course at Chateau Tongariro Hotel, whether you’re staying in a standard room or standalone cabin. Additionally, travelers will never run out of recreational activities in the park; besides all of nature’s bounty, facilities include a nine-hole golf course and a cinema.
Chateau Tongariro Hotel
Address: State Highway 48
4.77 km (3.0 mi) from Tongariro National Park
Immerse yourself in rich Kiwi heritage
New Zealand may be the bucket-list destination of adventurers, but the country offers much more than an adrenaline rush. The rich history and culture are worth exploring, and these heritage hotels in New Zealand are a good place to start. With incredible architecture, colorful stories, and often a scenic landscape just outside the door, these accommodations add depth to any journey to the island.
History
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