Where your clients rest their heads at the end of a busy day exploring the very best that Aotearoa New Zealand has to offer is an important part of any holiday. That’s why we’ve put together this handy guide of hotels around the motu (country) that have opened or been refurbished in the last 12 months. 

Some of the new hotels have self-awarded star ratings, some currently have no star rating and some are yet to receive accreditation from Qualmark(opens in new window), New Zealand’s official quality assurance organisation. 

To date there are 38 hotel accommodations included in this list. 

A-B is for... 

Abstract Hotel Auckland(opens in new window) 

In the heart of Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland’s dining and nightlife scenes, Abstract Hotel is designed for urban adventurers with self-contained hotel rooms, an outdoor garden bar and luxury spa. 

Te Aka Treehouse(opens in new window), West Coast 

Reconnect with nature at this off-grid retreat on the West Coast of the South Island. Two contemporary treehouses set within native ngahere (forest) provide enchantment, seclusion and privacy. 

Te Arikinui Pullman Auckland Airport Hotel(opens in new window) – 5-star 

Combining lifestyle and design, this 5-star hotel is steps from Auckland’s International Airport terminal with top floor restaurant ‘Te Kaahu’ offering views of the runway and Manukau Heads. 

C is for... 

Coastal Equi Retreat(opens in new window), Manawatū 

Nestled amongst a growing avocado orchard, each of the Mongolian inspired yurts have been carefully crafted using locally sourced materials with a full-sized kitchen and bathroom attached.

D is for... 

Drift Off Grid(opens in new window), Nelson Tasman – Qualmark Silver 

In stunning Golden Bay with breathtaking ocean views, this is eco glamping at its best. Idyllic and romantic, each of the tents includes a log burner, private outdoor bathtub and daily breakfast. 

E-G is for... 

Edgewater Wānaka Hotel(opens in new window) – Qualmark Gold 

Located on the shores of Lake Wānaka, this lakeside hotel has unveiled new premium rooms, a mix of hotel rooms and one- and two-bedroom apartments. Further rolling upgrades are due to be completed in 2025. 

H is for... 

Haka House Hostels(opens in new window), Nationwide  

A collection of design-driven hostels across the motu (country) combining convenience and affordability. Currently seven hostels have been refurbished including those in Auckland, Rotorua, Christchurch and Aoraki Mt Cook, with another six scheduled to open later in 2024. 

Haurapa PurePod(opens in new window), Central Otago – Qualmark Gold  

Tranquillity and panoramic views of the surrounding rugged landscapes of Cromwell are hallmarks of any stay at Haurapa PurePod. Delicious breakfast and dinner hampers can be arranged by pre-order. 

Hermitage Hotel(opens in new window), Aoraki Mt Cook, Mackenzie – Qualmark Gold 

The iconic Hermitage Hotel has completed an extensive refurbishment project, introducing a new design to 60 rooms across all six floors of the Aoraki Wing – most come with stunning maunga (mountain) views. 

Horizon by SkyCity(opens in new window), Auckland – 5-star, Qualmark Provisional 

Meet, gather and stay at this central city hotel with 303 rooms including a collection of premium suites. An air bridge connecting to the New Zealand International Convention Centre (opening 2025) makes this a great choice for business travellers. 

I-J is for... 

InterContinental Auckland(opens in new window) – 5-star 

Soak up Waitematā Harbour views from the InterContinental Auckland located steps from the ferry terminal and the shopping of Commercial Bay. Expect contemporary sophistication in the 139 rooms, rooftop bar and signature restaurant. 

K is for... 

Ka Tuku Lodge(opens in new window), Fiordland 

This is one of two luxury lodges on the Hollyford Track to be renamed to align with traditional Ngāi Tahu (local iwi) place names. Previously Pyke Lodge, ‘Whakatipu Ka Tuku’ is one of the names given to the Hollyford River by Ngāi Tahu. 

Te Karaka Lodge(opens in new window), Waikato 

Within the rural landscapes of North Waikato farmland, Te Karaka Lodge has a contemporary yet rustic design featuring 10 rooms, an outdoor heated spa and farm-to-table cuisine in the restaurant. 

Kissing Gate(opens in new window), Nelson Tasman 

Nestled amongst the glades on a 7-acre farm, Kissing Gate’s owners have revamped this charming glamping accommodation with a new main bedroom in a settlers-style cabin. The real drawcard though is the clawfoot bathtub on the jetty over the pond! 

Korimako Cabin(opens in new window), Taupō  

Korimako Cabin is a stylish couple's escape hidden away just a short drive from Taupō. This single room cabin with spacious covered deck is the second accommodation option at Puketui Forest Escape. 

L is for... 

Loan & Mercantile Loft Apartments(opens in new window), Dunedin 

A collection of 13 one-bedroom apartments on Dunedin’s waterfront just 300 metres from the city’s iconic railway station. Decor is modern and industrial, and each apartment comes with a fully equipped kitchen and 55” Smart TV. 

Lynton Downs Farm Stay(opens in new window), Kaikōura 

Spend a relaxing break in the newly renovated East Wing of Lynton Downs Farm Stay, originally built in the 1860s. Soak up the views of the Kaikōura Seaward Ranges and go on a farm tour to see the sheep dogs in action! 

M is for... 

Te Mānia Retreat(opens in new window), Hawke’s Bay 

An exclusive, jaw-dropping property with two separate sleeping houses (each with an outdoor hot tub) and the main ‘Te Mānia Room’ for unwinding, socialising and dining. Enquire about the luxury All Inclusive package. 

Matawhero Winery Pods(opens in new window), Gisborne – 4-star, Qualmark Bronze 

Set amongst the vines, Matawhero Winery’s four boutique individually designed cabins are the perfect getaway for two. Enjoy a complimentary bottle of wine on arrival and daily breakfast provisions. 

N is for...

Ngā Whare Mānatu(opens in new window), Canterbury 

A unique retreat in Geraldine just an hour’s drive from Lake Tekapo/Takapō. There is a choice of four accommodations, each designed to reflect the natural environment with kitchenettes and outdoor hot tubs. Dinner platters available on request.

O is for... 

Okoro Villa(opens in new window), Nelson Tasman 

Nestled into nature with sweeping views of Tasman Bay, it’s hard to believe this luxury property is just 20 minutes from Nelson Airport! Indulge in sunset views from the heated infinity pool and bespoke menus created by the resident chef.

P is for... 

Pāmu PurePod(opens in new window), Rotorua – Qualmark Gold 

While just a 10-minute drive from Rotorua’s attractions, there’s a real sense of seclusion at Pāmu PurePod. Combining luxury, sustainability and thoughtful touches including a telescope for stargazing. 

Q is for... 

Quest on Cambridge(opens in new window), Christchurch 

Experience open plan living in these centrally located light-filled studio apartments 10 minutes' walk from the botanic gardens. Self-catering, pantry shopping and local restaurant charge back services available. 

Quest Hastings(opens in new window), Hawke’s Bay 

Unwind and relax in modern comfort in these stylish studios and one- and two-bedroom serviced apartments in central Hastings. Breakfast packs for those early starts and complimentary gym access both available.

Quest Mt Maunganui(opens in new window), Bay of Plenty 

Embrace coastal living at this Mt Maunganui property just a short walk from picture-postcard beaches. Light-filled studios, one- and two-bedroom serviced apartments and executive apartments come with kitchens or kitchenettes, en-suite bathrooms, laundry facilities and king beds.

La Quinta by Wyndham Ellerslie Auckland(opens in new window) 

Located in the city fringe suburb of Ellerslie, La Quinta by Wyndham Ellerslie Auckland offers easy access to Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland’s city centre with a design that reflects the energy of the ‘City of Sails’. 

R is for... 

Rosewood Hotels & Resorts(opens in new window), Nationwide  

Three of New Zealand’s iconic luxury properties known for their warm hospitality and stunning backdrops have been rebranded as Rosewood Hotels. In Northland, The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs is now Rosewood Kauri Cliffs(opens in new window), in Hawke’s Bay The Farm at Cape Kidnappers is Rosewood Cape Kidnappers(opens in new window) and in Queenstown Matakauri Lodge is now Rosewood Matakauri(opens in new window). 

Rydges Rotorua(opens in new window), Qualmark Silver 

Located near the Redwoods Forest and overlooking the Whakarewarewa Thermal Valley, Rydges Rotorua has recently refurbished over 100 guestrooms for an enhanced guest experience.

S is for... 

Scenic Hotel Punakaiki(opens in new window), West Coast – Qualmark Silver 

Previously known as Ocean View Retreat, this 4-star property re-opened in early 2023 with 63 refurbished premium guest suites. Located right on the beach, you’ll be a short five-minute walk to the region’s famed Pancake Rocks. 

The Sebel Wellington Thorndon(opens in new window) – 4-star 

Sleek and stylish, this modern serviced apartment hotel is a stone’s throw from some of the capital’s most iconic landmarks including the Beehive Parliament buildings. 

The Sebel Wellington Lower Hutt(opens in new window) – 4-star 

Upscale and contemporary with a dynamic atmosphere overlooking Te Awa Kairangi (the Hutt River). Expect comfortable guestrooms with Smart TVs and kitchenettes, an on-site Italian restaurant and complimentary gym access all just 20 minutes from central Wellington. 

Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour(opens in new window) – 5-star, Qualmark Gold 

This modern, stylish inner-city hotel has undergone an extensive refurbishment of its meeting and events spaces and the Club Lounge, as well as offering brand-new dining options including a Mediterranean eatery and a French patisserie.  

SOHO Hotel Auckland(opens in new window) – due to open March 2024 

A deco-inspired luxury hotel featuring 126 guest bedrooms, an Asian-fusion restaurant and The Spa X SOHO with onsen pool and outdoor meditation deck. All just 10 minutes from the central city.

T is for... 

Tāima PurePod(opens in new window), Central Otago – Qualmark Gold 

Soak up sunsets and stunning maunga (mountain) views from the deck of Tāima PurePod in Cromwell. Convenient access to the Lake Dunstan Trail makes this an excellent choice for keen cyclists. 

The Two Tales(opens in new window), Fox Glacier, West Coast 

A choice of two mountain cabins, each individually designed and delivering ultimate seclusion and compact but well-equipped kitchenettes. Take in striking views of the Southern Alps while soaking in your private cedar lined outdoor bathtub beneath starry skies. 

U is for... 

Urban Lounge Sleepery(opens in new window), Rotorua 

In the heart of Rotorua’s city centre walking distance to restaurants and bars, expect a range of room types for all travellers and a thermally heated outdoor pool. Also offers contactless check-in and check-out as well as keyless hotel and room entry. 

V is for...

Viking Village(opens in new window), Kaiata, West Coast 

An off-grid retreat amid unspoiled native rainforest five minutes’ drive from Greymouth. Sleep in barrel-style accommodations and indulge with a soak in the private woodfire spa. Daily evening ‘dining packages’ of locally sourced meat and seasonal vegetables can be cooked on the communal grill. 

W-Z is for...

Waitai Lodge(opens in new window), Fiordland 

Previously known as Martins Bay Lodge, Waitai Lodge has been renamed to reflect the traditional Ngāi Tahu (local iwi) place name of the area. Hikers partaking in the Hollyford Wilderness Experience will be able to spend their second night in this luxury lodge.