4 Best Hotels in Auckland, New Zealand

If you feel like staying in a "lighthouse" without being responsible for the ships, the two-story turret suite at The Boatshed may be the place for you, though there are other equally luxurious options, and dinner can be a well-earned add-on. Up a spiral staircase, glass doors open to a wraparound deck with views to Oneroa Bay. A long central room leads to a sail-covered deck and opens onto a cozy sunken lounge. In the Bridge Room, bi-fold windows frame a view of the bay. There's also the Owner's Cottage for a special stay. Helicopter transport to and from the Boatshed can be arranged, and it's possible to order spa, massage, and yoga sessions. A Jeep is available for a small charge, but it has unlimited miles and fuel.

Standing on the end of Princes Wharf, the Hilton resembles the cruise ships that dock alongside it, with white walls and neutral furnishings in chic rooms that allow your eyes to drift to the great views. The hotel's restaurant is good, while the cocktail bar is the best place to relax after a day of sightseeing. The Viaduct Basin with its raft of restaurants is five minutes away on foot.

This five-star, luxurious waterside hotel is in the heart of Wynyard Quarter with its many eateries and the city's home of theater, the Auckland Theatre Company, and it's also just outside the fray so it can be a little less noisy. The gorgeous minimalist, modern guest rooms, many with balconies, look over water toward the harbor, and the hotel's amenities include a 25-meter (82-foot) pool and an up-to-the minute fitness center. There are also four restaurants, from a café to fine dining. If you enjoy walking, the hotel is close to a great coastline walk that can take you to the underside of the Auckland Harbor Bridge.

This waterfront hotel presents guests with both luxury and a friendly environment, as well as views of the ever-changing Viaduct Basin from some rooms. Guest rooms are expertly appointed, with spacious bathrooms, and some rooms have balconies. The Harbour View corner rooms with their floor-to-ceiling windows are in particularly high demand. Lava Dining serves a great breakfast, lunch, and dinner, while the casual 21 Viaduct Cafe offers waterside dining. If you don't want to dine in the hotel, you're just a short stroll from the Viaduct Basin or the Wynyard Quarter park and restaurant area.