February 2023
When my family came to stay at one of Auckland's newest and most exciting hotels, I seized the opportunity to join them.
Who doesn't love a staycation?
As a city-slicking local to New Zealand's biggest and brightest city, I'm no stranger to the constantly evolving Britomart precinct.
For those planning to visit the city, lying between Waitemata Harbour and Auckland's lower CBD, Britomart is a 6.5-hectare waterfront precinct of heritage buildings, new developments, and open and intimate public spaces.
New Zealand's first Five Green Star Hotel.
The Hotel Britomart opened its doors in October 2020.
Having wandered past it before, I've been struck by the contemporary elegance the hotel designers drew from the many natural materials selected for its construction.
It begins with the sophisticated glass entrance adorned with door handles that look like driftwood.
Upon entering, you are immediately struck by a large black wall that looks like it is cracking - it was apparently formed using earthen clay sourced from the surrounding region.
Various seating nooks are scattered throughout the lobby. This provides the inquisitive traveller with a selection of lovely spots to sit, enjoy a drink and people-watch through the expansive glass windows.
There are a few room options, depending on your preference and the depth of your pockets.
Each rooftop Landing Suite is more impressive than the last, featuring breathtaking views of Waitemata Harbour and beyond.
Also available is a range of beautifully appointed Guest Rooms, sure to impress if you're after something a little less lavish.
I was fortunate to choose one of the Galway Rooms, overlooking Galway Street (unsurprisingly) and Britomart. Though my view of the harbour was partially obscured by nearby buildings, it was an idyllic spot to sit, sip a coffee, and watch the busy Aucklanders below going about their weekday business.
The Galway Room was elegant and very well thought out.
A clever sliding door hid the bathroom but could be opened for extra space. The palette in the room was moody, and the bathroom featured stunning charcoal tiles from floor to ceiling.
Walls were lined with gorgeous timber that flowed into a built-in sofa and a study nook - perfect for getting some work done!
After a couple of nights' stay, I was suitably refreshed.
The Hotel Britomart is a gorgeous addition to Auckland's downtown, another fantastic spot that makes me proud to call myself a JAFA.
"The Hotel Britomart is locally designed, built and owned. It’s a place that does detail like no other, with interior timber accents and an exterior of hand-made bricks, organic cotton sheets and built-in sofas, hand-crafted vases and a mini-library of New Zealand books in every room and suite."
You can read more here.
“The Hotel Britomart aims to provide a sanctuary so calm that the only challenge you will face is uncurling yourself from the comfort of your room to enjoy all that downtown Auckland has to offer.”
