Christchurch on the east coast of New Zealand’s South Island is known to be a city of exploration, as well as the meeting point of regeneration and innovation. Which means while a stay there is enticing, it can be difficult to settle on an itinerary. (Though, with flights direct to Christchurch from Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne, it is easy to get there.)
Whether you’re looking for a luxurious stay or something a little more rustic, here are five worthy options.
Otahuna Lodge
Just like the city of Christchurch itself, Otahuna Lodge in Tai Tapu features modern luxuries on a traditional Aotearoa New Zealand landscape. Set against the backdrop of an ancient volcano and surrounded by gardens and woodlands, the lodge is Aotearoa New Zealand’s largest private residence.
In addition to all the trappings of high-end accommodation and service, dining at Otahuna Lodge is a sought-after experience in itself. Locals and international guests alike are drawn to a degustation menu that changes daily, with produce sourced largely from Otahuna’s own potager and orchard. During winter and spring they host popular gourmet events, so best plan your trip around that.
Pōhue Purepod
An hour’s drive from Christchurch, Pōhue Purepod is an intimate hotel in Port Levy, surrounded by rolling hills and rocky outcrops. A secluded stay with shelter provided by conifer trees, Pōhue Purepod combines the rugged feeling of camping with a traditional hotel stay.
To get there, take a scenic drive around Banks Peninsula, past Charteris Bay and Diamond Harbour, and up over the hill above Purau. From there, it’s a 25-minute walk to your accommodation along a track that winds through native bushland.
Observatory Hotel
Located in the heart of Christchurch, the Observatory Hotel (opened in May 2022) sits on the grounds of The Arts Centre Te Matatiki Toi Ora, bringing a contemporary style to an area rich with history. Each of the 33 rooms are uniquely styled with hand-picked, locally crafted furniture. Alongside typical luxuries, including a gym and the stylish Bijou Bar, there are in-house galleries, museums, a boutique cinema, retailers and wine tasting and long lunches at the Cellar Door (be sure to make a reservation to save your spot).
Tree Crop Farm
Tree Crop Farm is a lush 20-hectare retreat in Akaroa on the Grehan Valley stream featuring a range of accommodation options, from the spacious Verandah Hut and the uniquely shaped Tree House Hut to the vintage inspired Little French Studio and the romantic Hut by the River.
Staying here is a bit of a choose-your-own-adventure. After a sleep-in, collect your own eggs laid by the resident hens for breakfast, before setting out of one of the many walking paths. At the end of the day, slide into the outside hot tub under the stars.
The Mayfair
Only recently opened, The Mayfair is a boutique luxury hotel located just on the edge of the Christchurch city centre. With a view of Christchurch Botanic Gardens, The Mayfair’s design features earthy tones which contribute to a relaxed and modern environment. The hotel’s diner, Majestic at Mayfair, serves as both a cafe and a cocktail bar, so you can pull up a seat for breakfast each morning or pop in for a pre-dinner drink later on. And if your stay falls on a weekend, settle in for high tea.
This article is produced by Broadsheet in partnership with Christchurch NZ.
