WHERE TO STAY
There are many reasons to love Mollies
(mollies.co.nz), Auckland’s most charming
luxury boutique hotel: the neighbourhood,
the decor, the large rooms and its amazing
backstory. Built in the 1870s, it was
originally the residence of Auckland’s first
mayor. In the 1960s it was bought by Mollie
Wilson, whose daughter Frances, an operatic
singing coach in New York, returned to
refurbish it and open it as a boutique hotel
catering to visiting classical musicians and
featuring live opera. The current owners
still honour its heritage by hosting classical
music recitals within its art-clad walls.
The fusty facade belies what’s on
offer inside The Langham, Auckland
(langhamhotels.com/en), which is why it
is the first choice for visiting rock stars
both young (One Direction) and old (The
Rolling Stones). High tea is served beneaththe massive chandelier in the Palm
Court to Auckland’s doyennes and their
daughters. Next door is one of the city’s
oldest ballrooms, which is perfect for a
society wedding. Upstairs is the renowned
Chuan Spa (chuanspa.co.nz/en/Auckland).
Get relaxed and ready for the exquisite
Harmony Massage by doing the Chuan
Tri-bathing Ritual, which begins with an
aromatic steam, followed by a sauna, then
a final soak in the Jacuzzi.
Hotel De Brett (hoteldebrett.com) is
possibly Auckland’s most stylish hotel
and is conveniently located in the very
heart of the CBD. It is close to Britomart,
the High Street fashion shops, theatres,
bars and restaurants. Built in 1841 it has
been recently renovated in a modern
and eclectic style that pays homage to
its origins and its Art Deco features.
Each room is individually decorated andfurnished with warmth and style while the
overall look is pulled together by signature
multicoloured carpets in every space.
A central atrium and courtyard are
home to The Kitchen, the hotel’s acclaimed
restaurant. Downstairs, on the corner, is
the Housebar, a great place to watch the
city go by.
If you’re staying over on Waiheke
Island, book in at The Oyster Inn with
its signature yellow and white beach-
inspired decor. It’s just a short walk from
the scenic Oneroa Beach and features
three small but well-appointed rooms, an
excellent restaurant and a beach shop with
a compact but carefully curated collection
of things to buy by designers such as Karen
Walker, Deadly Ponies, Moscot and Orlebar
Brown. Its unmissable bright yellow 1970s
VW Combi will shuttle you to and from the
ferry – if it starts.The striking lobby of Hotel De Brett.
RIGHT The entertainment area of a
bedroom in Hotel De Brett. OPPOSITE
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