The Capital of Cool: Explore Wellington's Top 7 Boutique Hotels

Wellington, nicknamed "Welly" by locals, is undoubtedly a unique city. Though not as densely populated as Auckland, often mistaken as the country's capital, it compensates for its size by offering charm, character, and a true representation of New Zealand. Not only recognised as one of the cleanest cities worldwide, but it is also known as the coffee capital of the country.

Despite its many attractions, Wellington's CBD is relatively small, confined between the water and the surrounding hills. You can traverse the city in just 40 minutes, strolling along the scenic waterfront for a delightful visit. Don't miss out on Oriental Bay, located at the southern end of the harbour, where on a sunny day you can relax on the sandy beach and soak up the sun so close to the heart of the city.

A beloved treasure for locals is Te Papa museum, boasting fascinating exhibits that showcase art, culture, and history.

To experience the vibrant hipster culture of New Zealand's capital, look no further than Cuba Street. Here, you'll discover the city's best cafes, record shops, vintage clothing boutiques, and alternative music venues.

Boutique hotels and modern accomodation concepts are on the rise, often trending towards cool industrial designs inspired by American warehouse conversions.

Locay explores the Top 7 Boutique Hotels in Wellington's best local areas, providing the perfect base for your next local vacation!

Naumi Hotel

Te Aro
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Wellington

The Naumi Hotel, located in the heart of Wellington's CBD, is a definite must-visit spot for those seeking unadulterated luxury.

This 62-room boutique hotel offers a true spectacle of chic and bold design in their unique room offerings such as the Habitat King and Oasis King. The hotel's commitment to local art is evident with stunning bespoke rugs created by artist Karl Maughan and large-scale floral backdrops crafted by Art Dep’t NZ that provide a majestic atmosphere. Upon entry into the hotel, you'll encounter a stunning, lighted floral sculpture by Angus Muir Designs in the lobby -simply breathtaking!

Guests can enjoy complimentary non-alcoholic minibar selection in each room, making it the ideal place to unwind after a long day of exploring Wellington's vibrant local scene.With a prime location just moments away from vibrant Cuba Street, you'll find yourself right in the middle of Wellington's thriving culture, gastronomy, and entertainment hub.

Te Aro
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Wellington

Naumi Studio is redefining what it means to stay in a hotel. Far from merely providing a place to sleep, Naumi Studio is all about the whole experience.

Located amidst a lively array of shops and eateries, this bohemian boutique hotel in Wellington's Cuba Street precinct is a local treasure that boasts a cool and hip vibe. With its contemporary pan-Asian restaurant and fashionable cocktail lounge, this hotel certainly knows how to cater to the trendsetters of New Zealand's capital city.

The recently renovated 116-room property is housed in a stunning Edwardian-era building that was originally one of the People's Palace hotels built by the Salvation Army. Featuring a dramatic chromatic look that is heavily branded, the reception area is particularly striking with its knockout floral mural by Art Dept, sculptural flower lights by Angus Muir, and bespoke rugs by the talented artist Karl Maughan.

This is one bright, beautiful, and unforgettable boutique hotel that is a must-visit for travellers who want to soak up the local flair of Wellington!

Te Aro
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Wellington

Step into The Intrepid Hotel and you might momentarily think you're in the heart of an edgy warehouse in the USA. We just love this concept and strongly recommend this for the urban creative looking for a good hotel hustle.

Housed in the former Cadbury Chocolate office and warehouse, built in 1909, this cool hotel features 18 luxurious, contemporary rooms that are stripped back to a grunge vibe. Exposed brick walls and unique architectural features make these rooms anything but ordinary. The hotel may not have a fitness centre or a big buffet breakfast, what it lacks in classic hotel facilities it makes up for with complimentary local beverages and snacks available in your room's fridge.

For those looking for a bit more of a kick in house, be sure to check out the hotel bar, The Puffin, tucked away in the back of the hotel, which specialises in organic wine and offers plush booths to relax in.

Wellington
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Te Aro

Step into the heart of Te Aro district and discover a bold, artistic oasis in the heart of Wellington Harbour.

Signature QT style is on full display here, weaving a modern and unique experience throughout the luxurious interior of this trending boutique hotel.

The eye-catching rotating collection of more than 200 pieces of art creates a playful and artistic vibe that is truly inspiring, as well the on-site dining options are equally as impressive. With three vibrant entertainment dining and bar areas to choose from, including the mod-French fine-dining restaurant Hippopotamus, guests are truly spoiled for choice.

Whether you're lounging in the art-filled lobby or taking a dip in the 17-metre indoor pool, you'll feel immersed in an atmosphere that is bold, fun and focused on confident customer service. This is one hotel that truly delivers a unique and eclectic experience that's sure to leave you feeling inspired.

Wellington
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Oriental Bay

Ohtel Wellington

Indulge yourself in a luxurious 5-star experience at Ohtel Wellington, located on Oriental Bay just a 2-minute walk from Lambton Harbour, 2 km from the Wellington Cable Car, and 3 km from the Wellington Botanic Garden.
The hotel is adjacent to Wellington’s main entertainment precinct and en route to the city centre from the airport, close to major tourist attractions such as Te Papa Museum, Oriental Bay Beach, and Courtenay Place that offer a taste of Wellington’s unique hub of creative capital culture.

This modern boutique hotel offers spacious rooms, furnished with elegant mid-century pieces and filled with artwork that will inspire and impress you. The personalised service provided by the hotel staff is award-winning, ensuring your needs are met throughout your stay.

Ohtel Wellington offers amenities such as a bar and off-site valet parking, and breakfast is served daily for an additional fee.  
The Ohtel Wellington offers a luxurious experience that you won't want to miss.

Wellington
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Wellington City

Tryp

Located in the heart of Wellington, TRYP by Wyndham Wellington on Tory Street offers a local experience that transports you back in time. As soon as you step into the hotel, you are welcomed by the Art Deco style with black and white tiles, velvet-style fabrics, and geometric mirrors.

The hotel's prime location puts you steps away from the Wellington Central Business District and Courtenay Place, and a short walk from Cuba Street's famous entertainment strip, home to some of the city's best restaurants, bars and vibrant nightlife.

Start your day with a complimentary continental breakfast, and take in the local atmosphere that makes Wellington the 'coolest little capital in the world' as described by Lonely Planet!

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This hotel is in an excellent central location for work or leisure whilst staying in Wellington.

Family owned and operated and just steps from Parliament and central business district, Bolton Hotel is conveniently close to the best of the city's shops, cafes and restaurants and within walking distance of Wellington's vibrant waterfront.

With spacious rooms, Bolton Hotel offers a choice of 137 stylish contemporary design rooms, from elegant studios to one and two-bedroom apartment-style suites. The Premium Studio is a bright king bed studio featuring large windows with views of the Thorndon hills and cityscape. Perfectly equipped with ensuite bathrooms, work desks, kitchenettes and relaxed seating area, the perfect sanctuary for both work, and play.

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Maree Sheehan
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Potts Point, Sydney

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