3 Best Hotels in Wellington, Wellington and the Wairarapa

With the hotel's stately heritage facade hiding a colorful, whimsical interior, you'd think you've stumbled onto a set of a Wes Anderson film. Aesthetically striking at every turn, Naumi's reception and downstairs Lola Rouge bar area provide a comfy and delightful lounge in which to work and socialize. The well-designed rooms thoughtfully navigate the smaller dimensions typical of a heritage building. Naumi wholly embodies the cool vibe and friendliness of the capital's iconic Cuba Street.

Well-known to upscale business travelers, this independently owned hotel is great for extended stays, with some rooms containing full kitchen facilities and washer/dryers. Artisan, the in-house restaurant, is incredible, and it's worth staying in for a night just to experience dinner there. It's not in the heart of downtown, which is preferable to some guests.

These well-appointed loft-style rooms and suites (including some with two bedrooms) in the heart of the city will have you feeling like a true local. Located on Hannah's Laneway, the Cobbler is a stone's throw from the Wellington Chocolate Factory, and it feels more like an upscale apartment block than a hotel. Before your arrival, the owners send you a unique entry code, so you don't have to fuss with check-in times or waiting in line. Don't take the lack of check-in desk as a sign of missing service: the owners are easily contacted should you need anything. Each room also comes with a bespoke, up-to-date guide of local events and eateries that you can take home as a souvenir.