With New Zealand’s snow-capped mountains, bright blue lakes, and cities where coastal coffee views are part of everyday life, choosing the right place to relax after a full day of exploring matters. After hiking alpine trails, cruising across glassy waters, or wandering vibrant neighborhoods, you’ll want a stay that feels just as memorable as the scenery around you.
But don’t get overwhelmed just yet, because we’ll help you narrow down your choices! We’ve got a list of the best places to stay in New Zealand by city, so you’ll know exactly where to stay based on your travel style.
Queenstown
Queenstown is easily one of the best areas to stay in New Zealand if you love adventure and dramatic scenery. Set along the shores of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by towering alpine peaks, here you can try jet boating through narrow canyons, go skydiving over snow-capped mountains, or take on the famous Nevis Bungy.
1. Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa
Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa with stunning Lake Wakatipu views
Address: Kawarau Village, 79 Peninsula Road, Queenstown
Check-in: 3:00 PM
Check-out: 11:00 AM
Set right on Lake Wakatipu, Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa is a lakeside retreat that feels peaceful yet connected to the action. You get mountain views, cozy fireplaces in select rooms, and a spa that’s perfect after a day outdoors. It’s ideal for couples, honeymooners, or anyone wanting comfort after adrenaline-filled adventures.
Things to do near Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa:
• Cruise across Lake Wakatipu
• Ski or hike at The Remarkables
• Go on a Gibbston Valley winery tour
2. Pinewood Queenstown
Pinewood Queenstown Lodge near the town center
Address: 48 Hamilton Road, Queenstown
Check-in: 3:00 PM
Check-out: 10:00 AM
If you’re looking for something more laid-back and budget-friendly without missing out on location, Pinewood Queenstown is a good pick. Just a short walk from the town center, this alpine-style lodge offers a cozy, social atmosphere that’s perfect for solo travelers, backpackers, and groups of friends.
You can choose from private rooms, studios, or shared accommodation depending on your budget and travel style. The rustic wooden interiors give it that classic mountain-lodge feel, making it extra cozy during cooler months. It’s easily one of the best places to stay in New Zealand if you want affordability, convenience, and a friendly vibe all in one.
Things to do near Pinewood Queenstown:
• Ride the Skyline Queenstown Gondola for panoramic lake and mountain views
• Walk along the Lake Wakatipu waterfront
• Explore Queenstown Gardens
• Book a Shotover River jet boat adventure
Auckland
If you want urban convenience with easy access to beaches and islands, Auckland is one of the best places to stay in New Zealand for first-time visitors. As the country’s largest city, it’s a place where modern skyscrapers coexist with laid-back coastal living.
Auckland is built around two harbors, which means water views are almost everywhere. You can sail across the Waitematā Harbour, explore black-sand beaches on the west coast, or hike up volcanic cones for sweeping skyline views.
3. voco Auckland City Centre by IHG
voco Auckland City Centre hotel exterior at night
Address: 13 Wyndham Street, Auckland CBD
Check-in: 3:00 PM
Check-out: 10:00 AM
Located in the CBD, voco Auckland City Centre by IHG is a modern hotel that puts you within walking distance of the waterfront, restaurants, and shopping streets. The rooms here are sleek and comfortable, and the skyline views from the rooftop bar is something you shouldn’t miss.
Things to do near voco Auckland City Centre:
• Visit Sky Tower for panoramic views
• Take a ferry to Waiheke Island
• Walk around Viaduct Harbour
4. Cordis Auckland
Cordis Auckland skyline views in the city center
Address: 83 Symonds Street, Auckland
Check-in: 3:00 PM
Check-out: 11:00 AM
Cordis is known for its spacious rooms and rooftop pool with city views. It’s slightly removed from the busiest streets, offering a quieter stay while still being central. The on-site spa makes it ideal if you want to balance sightseeing with relaxation.
Things to do near Cordis Auckland:
• Explore Auckland War Memorial Museum
• Walk up Mount Eden for city views
• Shop along Queen Street
Wellington
If you're into arts, food, and walkable neighborhoods, Wellington is one of the top places to stay in New Zealand. Here, you can explore museums in the morning, browse indie boutiques in the afternoon, and enjoy craft cocktails by the harbor at night, all without needing a car.
5. Naumi Studio Wellington
Naumi Studio Wellington stylish hotel entrance
Address: 223 Cuba Street, Te Aro, Wellington
Check-in: 3:00 PM
Check-out: 10:00 AM
Bold, colorful, and full of character, Naumi Studio offers something different from big hotel chains. You’re right by Cuba Street, which means easy access to indie shops and some of the country’s best cafés. Rooms are cozy yet stylish, and the location makes exploring effortless. It’s a great pick if you value design and central access.
Things to do near Naumi Studio Wellington:
• Visit Te Papa Museum
• Ride the Wellington Cable Car
• Explore Cuba Street cafés
6. InterContinental Wellington
InterContinental Wellington luxury hotel exterior
Address: 2 Grey Street, Wellington
Check-in: 3:00 PM
Check-out: 11:00 AM
For a more classic luxury stay, InterContinental Wellington offers waterfront views and spacious rooms. Just a 5-minute walk from Lambton Quay shopping and the harbor promenade, this hotel is polished, reliable, and ideal if you’re looking for a good place to stay near Wellington’s city center.
Things to do near InterContinental Wellington:
• Walk along Wellington Waterfront
• Visit Zealandia Ecosanctuary
• Shop at Lambton Quay
Rotorua
Rotorua offers bubbling mud pools, Māori cultural experiences, and relaxing hot springs. It’s one of the best places to stay in New Zealand if you want something truly unique. The moment you arrive, you’ll notice the steam rising from the ground and the distinct sulfur scent in the air, a reminder that you’re in one of the country’s most active geothermal regions.
7. Pullman Rotorua
Pullman Rotorua modern twin room with city views
Address: 1135 Arawa Street, Rotorua
Check-in: 2:00 PM
Check-out: 11:00 AM
If you’re looking for a hotel that gives you modern comfort with a prime city-center location, then Pullman Rotorua is definitely a place you must check out. After exploring geothermal parks, you can relax in their spacious rooms with plush bedding. Plus, the hotel restaurant makes dinner easy after long sightseeing days.
Things to do near Pullman Rotorua:
• Explore Te Puia Geothermal Park
• Relax at Polynesian Spa
• Visit Government Gardens
Christchurch
Christchurch is a great base for exploring the South Island. If you’re road-tripping, this is one of the best areas to stay in New Zealand for convenience. Often called the Garden City, Christchurch blends wide green spaces with a growing creative scene.
You can spend the morning wandering through gardens, then hop on a scenic drive to the Southern Alps or the Banks Peninsula by afternoon. Its central location makes it ideal if you’re planning to explore places like Lake Tekapo, Kaikōura, or Mount Cook.
8. The George Christchurch
The George Christchurch elegant suite interior
Address: 50 Park Terrace, Christchurch
Check-in: 2:00 PM
Check-out: 11:00 AM
Overlooking Hagley Park, The George Christchurch delivers boutique luxury in a quiet setting. The rooms here are refined yet comfortable, and the service feels personal. You’re just a 14-minute walk away from the Botanic Gardens and riverside walks, making it ideal if you’re the kind of traveler who wants a slower pace.
Things to do near The George Christchurch:
• Wander Christchurch Botanic Gardens
• Visit Canterbury Museum
Lake Tekapo
If natural beauty tops your priority list, Lake Tekapo is one of the best places to stay in New Zealand for pure scenery. The lake’s unreal turquoise color, framed by snow-capped peaks, looks almost too perfect to be real.
Plus, what makes Lake Tekapo extra special is its location within a UNESCO Dark Sky Reserve. Once the sun sets, the sky transforms into a blanket of stars that feels close enough to touch!
9. Peppers Bluewater Resort
Peppers Bluewater Resort Lake Tekapo scenic room view
Address: State Highway 8, Lake Tekapo
Check-in: 2:00 PM
Check-out: 10:00 AM
At Peppers Bluewater Resort, you’ll wake up to bright turquoise waters and snow-dusted peaks. Many rooms come with kitchen facilities, which is perfect for longer stays. At night, step outside and look up, this is part of a Dark Sky Reserve, so stargazing will definitely become a core memory.
Things to do near Peppers Bluewater Resort:
• Visit Church of the Good Shepherd
• Stargaze at Mount John Observatory
• Relax at Tekapo Springs
FAQs about where to stay in New Zealand
Which city is best to stay in New Zealand?
Queenstown is often considered the most exciting base because this is where you can experience both adventure and great scenery. Auckland works well if you prefer a big city with easy international access. Wellington is also a good choice is you want something creative and walkable.
Which part of New Zealand is best for tourists?
The South Island (which consists of Queenstown, Mount Cook, Milford Sound) stands out for landscapes like mountains and fjords. The North Island (which consists of Auckland, Rotorua, Lake Taupo shines with beaches, geothermal parks, and Maori culture. If you can, explore both to get the full experience.
What is the best town in New Zealand?
Queenstown is a strong contender thanks to its energy and views. Lake Tekapo is stunning if you prefer quiet and stargazing. Rotorua offers something different with its geothermal activity and cultural experiences.
Which part of New Zealand is the most beautiful?
Many travelers vote for the South Island because of places like Milford Sound and Lake Tekapo. However, beauty is everywhere in New Zealand, from coastal bays to green countryside. You truly can’t go wrong.
Where should I go for my first time in New Zealand?
Start in Auckland for convenience and city comfort, then head to Queenstown or Rotorua to experience iconic scenery. This combination gives you a great introduction to what makes the country special.
Start planning your New Zealand getaway!
With this list of the top places to stay in New Zealand, now it’s time for you to start building your itinerary. Check out our New Zealand guides for more information about this beautiful country, and great deals you can only find on Klook!
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