Stepping into any of New Zealand’s oldest hotels is like walking through a portal into the past. Each has been holding secrets for centuries, from gold rush adventures and noble beginnings to legends of ghosts and historic firsts.
These hotels have stood the test of time, preserving their rich heritage while continuing to offer warm hospitality and a unique glimpse into New Zealand’s history.
This article takes you on a journey through the ten oldest hotels in New Zealand, where each establishment narrates a different chapter of the nation’s past.
From the regal Duke of Marlborough in Russell to the eclectic White Swan in Greytown, discover the stories and traditions that make these historic hotels fascinating destinations in their own right.
Oldest Hotels in New Zealand
8. The Wellesley Boutique Hotel
City Location: Wellington
Year Established: 1885
In the heart of Wellington, The Wellesley Boutique Hotel, originally the Wellington Club, serves as proof of the city’s boisterous political and social scenes of the late 19th century.
This boutique hotel is celebrated for its exclusive and intimate atmosphere, offering a unique blend of old-world charm and modern sophistication.
Did You Know?
The building was designed by the famed architect William Gray Young, whose work significantly shaped the architectural landscape of Wellington during that era.
7. The White Swan Hotel
City Location: Greytown
Year Established: 1882
Photo Source: Wikimedia Commons
The White Swan Hotel is a landmark in the historic town of Greytown. It began as a railway hotel and has been restored to offer luxury accommodation with a quirky, contemporary twist. The hotel is known for its eclectic decor and the use of local art and materials in its design.
Did You Know?
The hotel’s structure was originally located in another part of New Zealand and was transported to Greytown in six pieces on the railway, highlighting a unique aspect of its history.
6. The Criterion Hotel
City Location: Oamaru
Year Established: 1877
Photo Source: Wikimedia Commons
Nestled in Oamaru’s famous Victorian precinct, The Criterion Hotel showcases 19th-century architecture and style.
This hotel is popular among history enthusiasts and offers guests a chance to step back in time while enjoying modern comforts. The hotel is part of the town’s efforts to preserve its rich Victorian heritage.
Did You Know?
The hotel has retained its original pub, which has been serving locals and visitors alike for over 140 years, making it one of the oldest continuously operating pubs in New Zealand.
5. The Grand Hotel
City Location: New Plymouth
Year Established: 1870
Photo Source: Wikimedia Commons
The Grand Hotel in New Plymouth offers a classic experience with its majestic Victorian structure. It was built during the provincial era and has been meticulously maintained to reflect its original grandeur.
The hotel serves as a living museum decorated with period furnishings and historic photographs.
Did You Know?
The Grand Hotel is rumored to be haunted by the ghost of a former maid, known to make unexpected appearances in guests’ photographs, adding a mysterious allure to its historic charm.
4. The Occidental Hotel
City Location: Auckland
Year Established: 1870
Located on Auckland’s bustling waterfront, The Occidental Hotel blends historical significance with contemporary luxury.
Originally serving seafarers and traders, it now caters to a diverse clientele, from tourists to local business people. The hotel’s facade is a city landmark known for its neoclassical elements.
Did You Know?
The Occidental is the site of Auckland’s first beer garden, which continues to be a popular social spot, echoing the lively gatherings of its early days.
3. The Eichardt’s Private Hotel
City Location: Queenstown
Year Established: 1866
Eichardt’s Private Hotel started as a woolshed and was transformed into a hotel to serve gold miners during the Otago Gold Rush.
Today, it epitomizes luxury, retaining its 19th-century charm mixed with modern sophistication. The hotel provides stunning views of Lake Wakatipu and is renowned for its personalized service and exclusive suites.
Did You Know?
Eichardt’s has a secret tunnel that was used during the Gold Rush days for escaping during raids and conflicts. The tunnel has been preserved as part of the hotel’s rich history.
2. The Northern Hotel (Omaru)
City Location: Dunedin
Year Established: 1860
Photo Source: Wikimedia Commons
Positioned in the historic precinct of Dunedin, The Northern Hotel has been a fixture of the cityscape for over a century.
Originally built to cater to the commercial elite of the Gold Rush era, it now serves as a boutique hotel that merges historic elegance with modern amenities. The hotel’s architecture features Victorian and Edwardian styles.
Did You Know?
The Northern Hotel was reputedly the meeting place for some of New Zealand’s earliest unions, playing a pivotal role in the development of labor rights in the country.
1. The Duke of Marlborough Hotel
City Location: Russell, Bay of Islands
Year Established: 1827
Photo Source: Wikimedia Commons
The Duke of Marlborough Hotel holds the first liquor license in New Zealand and sits at the heart of Russell, a key player in the country’s early history.
Originally called “Johnny Johnston’s Grog Shop,” it was renamed to attract a more genteel clientele. This hotel has hosted various historical figures and offers a glimpse into the colonial past through its preserved architecture and ambiance.
Did You Know?
The hotel’s name was inspired by John Churchill, 1st Duke of Marlborough, to imbue it with a sense of nobility and prestige. Legend has it that the hotel was a favorite stopover for seafarers who traded goods and tales of the sea.
Conclusion
New Zealand’s oldest hotels offer a captivating journey through time. These historic gems not only provide luxurious stays but also embody the nation’s rich heritage and pioneering spirit. They are must-visit landmarks for anyone interested in intertwining history with contemporary hospitality.
