Heritage Auckland

Location

Given its historic shell, it’s unsurprising that you’ll find the Heritage Auckland sited right in the city centre. It’s set just behind the newly updated waterfront where upscale restaurants and bars command views over a Waitemata Harbour. Turn the other way and you’ll find everything from trendy shopping streets to world class museums, all interspersed by green spaces. If you head further afield, leisurely cruises will bring you to the islands of the Hauraki Gulf and mountain hikes offer giant, city defining views.

Accommodation

Featuring the original high ceilings, jarrah wood columns and native timber floors of the famous Farmers department store, the Hotel Wing retains all the building’s period charm. Rooms mix in more modern amenities, epitomised by clean lines, WiFi access and flatscreen TVs complete with Sky channels. Alternatively, there’s the contemporary Tower Wing, host to larger rooms that rank among the city’s biggest. And, along with their considered colour patterns and designer influences, many feature views out across the harbour. Lastly, the suites are particularly good, serving as self-contained apartments.

Dining

In keeping with the hotel’s green credentials – Heritage has been recognised with a Gold Enviro Award – the superb Hectors Restaurant specialises in healthy and sustainable food sourced locally. The majority is found within a 50 kilometre radius. It even features New Zealand’s first hotel raw bar, a popular station on the extensive breakfast buffet. Come the evening, the dinner service is best known for the excellent range of plant-based dishes on offer, earning Hectors a New Zealand Vegetarian Society accreditation – again the first hotel restaurant to receive one. Carnivores need not worry, however, with dishes such as braised lamb and pan-fried market fish available alongside the vegan high tea.

Facilities

In spite of its city centre location, Heritage Auckland enjoys a full range of resort-style amenities. WiFi is available throughout while you’ll have to head to the rooftop for the heated swimming pool which crowns the indoor heated lap and spa pool pairing. There are also two well-equipped gyms located in each of the hotel’s wings along with a floodlit tennis court for all your fitness needs. Back inside, make use of the concierge or end the day with a drink in the lobby’s bar.