Auckland is New Zealand’s most cosmopolitan city and, with its magnificent harbour dotted with magnificent boats and super-yachts, makes a good choice for a romantic stay. Auckland’s romantic hotels range from those with old-style glamour, magnificent views or cool design to those in quiet neighbourhoods or those offering complete privacy. Take a boat trip, a walk on one of Devonport’s beaches or people-watch from one of the waterfront’s snazzy bars, before returning to one of our pick of the best romantic hotels in Auckland.

6 of the Most Romantic Hotels in Auckland

Auckland's Most Romantic City Breaks

• For old-style glamour it’s hard to beat Fable Auckland, a fabulous Art Deco building with a subtle modern refurbishment that offers sleek rooms in soft shades of grey, with plenty of velvet, chandeliers and marble-clad bathrooms. There’s a sauna and hot tub – which can be reserved for private use – and a romantic restaurant specialising in gourmet fare.
• An alternative choice is SO/Auckland with its sleeker and more contemporary feel, funky furnishings, roof-top bar – great for people-watching as well as views over the harbour – and spa. There’s also a clubby lounge and a fine-dining restaurant. Choose a room with a bathroom overlooking the water.
• Tucked away but still very central, Hotel Debrett is smaller and more intimate (25 rooms) and with a strong design sense. The handsome Victorian building is furnished with a mix of art deco and vintage pieces while bedrooms are glamorous with bold shots of colour and sexy bathrooms. The bar is perfect for classic cocktails.

Intimate Auckland

• A 10-minute ferry-ride across the water, the Andelin Guest House, makes a good choice if you want to be close, but not too close, to the city centre. In the gentle seaside district of Devonport, this colonial-style guest house with veranda and gardens, has just five light and airy rooms in smart, understated style.
• Two further choices, both slightly off-the-beaten-track, that are adults-only, are Franklin 38 and Warbler’s Retreat. The former is quietly tucked away in Ponsonby, one of the city’s smartest address districts. Chic and stylish, the grand colonial-style house has just four spacious suites in bold monochrome colours with understatedly stylish furniture, modern art and spoiling bathrooms. Lazy breakfasts are served in the relaxed dining room while there’s a good choice of restaurants nearby.
• For the ultimate romantic bolthole, take a look at Warbler’s Retreat. Although only 30 minutes from Auckland city centre, it’s surrounded by lush wetland which you can step straight into from your room. This two-bedroom eco-lodge offers privacy, luxury and self-sufficiency with sleek and modern bedrooms, stylish kitchens (generously stocked) plus a swimming pool. A nice romantic touch is the outdoor bathrooms.

Still not sure?

• If you can’t find what you’re looking for here, browse our full range of Auckland hotels,
• or all our recommendations in the North Island.
• Alternatively, contact one of our friendly gurus for advice.

  • Hotel DeBrett Auckland 25 rooms from €150

    
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    Restaurant  -  DeBretts Kitchen serves fresh, seasonal fare in a striking yet relaxed setting. Don't miss High Tea!

    Families  -  Families are well catered for,with Deluxe and Loft Suites sleeping up to four guests

    City Style  -  The fusion of retro and Art Deco pieces creates a fresh, fun feel

    Sights nearby  -  It's just a short walk to Viaduct Harbour and Sky Tower

    

    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith

    Wonderfully colourful rooms with a retro edge and an eclectic mix of modern furniture and local art. The two bars are a highlight! Situated in Auckland's central hub, close to galleries, restaurants and great shopping. Laid-back and family-friendly. See More

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  • SO/Auckland Auckland 130 rooms from €198

    
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    Local exploring  -  Set right in the heart of Auckland with shops, restaurants and major sights nearby

    City Style  -  Join the hip crowd at the rooftop bar and enjoy the fashion-inspired design

    Restaurant  -  Harbour Society offers high-end cuisine focusing on sustainablity under the expert eye of Chef Marty Kindleysides

    Spa  -  SO/Spa offers a wide range of treatments including Himalayan Detox therapies, urban detox facials...

    

    A hip Auckland stay located right in the heart of the city, with contemporary interiors by renowned fashion-house WORLD. High-end cuisine reflects a focus on sustainability in Chef Marty Kindleysides' Harbour Society eatery. Join trendy types at the lively rooftop bar. See More

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  • Warblers Retreat Auckland 3 rooms from €398

    
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    Romantic Break  -  Offering complete seclusion, outdoor baths and terraces, this is the perfect romantic escape

    Weddings  -  A beautiful spot for an intimate wedding, planned with the help of celebrant Barb

    Country Escape  -  An eco-lodge surrounded by beautiful and luscious native bush

    Barefoot Luxury  -  For total relaxation.

    

    A small (yet perfectly formed) eco-lodge set in native rainforest only 30 minutes from Auckland. Offering just three rooms with outdoor baths and chic contemporary design, this is a romantic nature lovers' dream. There's also a saltwater pool, fire pit and tranquil terraces for birdwatching. See More

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  • Fable Auckland Auckland 79 rooms from €144

    
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    City Style  -  An elegant grand dame of a property right in the heart of the city

    Great walks  -  Climb One Tree Hill for panoramic views, or hike along the coastal path beyond the city limits

    Restaurant  -  Cooke’s Restaurant & Bar serves delicious gourmet cuisine using local ingredients

    Sights nearby  -  Waiheke island for beaches, or Devonport for Victorian waterfront

    

    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith

    Discreet luxury hotels are a rarity in Auckland where most central top-end ones tend to the big and glitzy. Sleek and understated, with Art Deco styling, Fable has a reassuringly traditional feel mixed with contemporary luxuries and top-notch service. All the main attractions nearby See More

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  • Andelin Guest House Auckland (Devonport) 5 rooms from €122

    
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    Local exploring  -  Find plenty to do in the area from beaches to charming restaurants, plus Auckland Ferry Terminal is just minutes away

    Great walks  -  Spend a lazy afternoon strolling through Mt Cambria Reserve, stopping for a picnic

    Sights nearby  -  Hop on the ferry for the 10 minute journey into central Auckland

    Full of character

    

    A charming boutique guesthouse offering just five rooms in the tranquil seaside village of Devonport, minutes from Auckland. Airy rooms are beautifully styled with large contemporary bathrooms, crisp white linen and photography hung on the walls. A quiet spot yet well-positioned to explore the city. See More

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  • Franklin 38 Auckland (Ponsonby) 4 rooms from €265

    
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    Local exploring  -  Well positioned in the upmarket area of Ponsonby offering easy access to the city's main attractions

    Romantic Break  -  Chic & spacious suites are ideal for couples' trips

    Local markets  -  The Ponsonby area is filled with trendy shops and eateries, best explored on foot

    Surfing  -  For surfers, Piha Beach offers black sand and wild surf

    

    A chic boutique guesthouse set in the smart area of Ponsonby. Offering four spacious suites decorated in monochrome hues with modern art and luxurious bathrooms. Indulgent breakfasts are served in the dining room and Ponsonby's restaurants and cafés are just a stroll away. See More

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Written by Helen Pickles

posted Wednesday, 8th June 2022