7 Best Hotels in Christchurch, Christchurch and Canterbury

Hidden behind an ivy-clad wall and pretty gardens, this lovely heritage villa boasts modern, spacious rooms. The interior is particularly welcoming with a large lounge and dining area, bathrooms are generous, and there is good off-street parking. The Canterbury Museum, Botanic Gardens, Art Gallery, Tram, and plenty of shops, restaurants, and bars are within easy walking distance. Arrive in time for a complimentary glass of wine at 5:30 pm. There are also three-bedroom apartments with leafy views that are fully self-contained, each spanning three floors.

As Christchurch's tallest central city building (once an office tower), this is a prime location with spectacular views overlooking historic Victoria Square and the Avon River. Comfortable beds and quiet zones guarantee a good night's sleep. There's a chic restaurant, café, and bar, plus a well equipped gym. The Crowne Plaza is in walking distance to nearly everything in the city, and just around the corner from historic New Regent Street and Isaac Theatre Royal.

This 11-floor, upscale, New Zealand--owned and -operated hotel is a postearthquake renovation with a contemporary design. It's an easy walk to all the main shopping and dining areas, with the acclaimed O.G.B. Bar next door. Expect the latest technology and top-quality bedding and room comfort.

Inside the beautifully restored Old Government Building built in 1913, with its sweeping central staircase and high ceilings, the Heritage has suites in an Italian High Renaissance Palazzo style complete with stained-glass windows and dark-wood paneling. It has sports facilities, a fitness center, a heated lap pool, sauna, spa, and the highly rated O.G.B. Bar on the ground floor.

One of the city's newer boutique hotels, the Mayfair is within walking distance to the CBD and just a short stroll away from Hagley Park—the rooms are clean, bright, and modern with all the latest technologies. The Top of The House rooms and suites are a bit more expensive but have great views from a private balcony over the city. There's a bustling café on ground level. A breakfast package can also be purchased as an extra with the room. 

From the moment you walk into the futuristic lobby you will receive a warm welcome from staff who know the city well and can help with directions and recommendations. The comfortable, smart rooms have views overlooking the Southern Alps, New Regent Street, or directly on to the still-damaged cathedral. The restaurant has clever nooks designed for sole diners, a nod to the many business travelers the hotel attracts.

Set on leafy Latimer Square, this newly built low-rise hotel is just a few minutes' walk from the central city, but far enough away to be quiet and relaxed. Many of the rooms and family-size suites overlook the square, and there is a spacious penthouse taking up the entire top level. It's just a short walk to the Transitional "Cardboard" Cathedral, a must-visit symbol of the new Christchurch. Do dine in the splendor of Bloody Mary's steakhouse restaurant—and don't forget to ask about the intriguing story of how it got its name.