Hotel Snapshot
New Zealand’s allure lies in its unwavering commitment to sustainability. Its chartreuse-hued mountains, glittering harbors, and hidden beaches remain pristine thanks to robust government-backed ecotourism standards that exceed global norms. But even within this forward-thinking context, Auckland’s Hotel Britomart raises the bar. The 99-room, handmade brick building is a calm, conscious oasis nestled along a quiet, stone-lined backstreet near Waitematā Harbour—right in the heart of the city’s bustling shopping and dining districts. For travelers seeking boutique luxury with a purpose, this is your place.
Design & Character
Hotel Britomart was the first hotel in New Zealand to receive a five-star green design and build rating from the NZ Green Building Council and Toitū—and it shows. Every detail here is rooted in environmental intent. The interiors are modern and minimalist yet warm and inviting, featuring timber-lined walls, built-in sofas, and cream-toned textiles. A muted palette keeps the focus on texture and form, while smart touchscreens control lighting, climate, and blackout blinds. Every piece of furniture and décor is sourced from local artisans and entrepreneurs using clean, renewable methods.
The Rooms
Each of the hotel’s 99 rooms reflects the broader ethos of understated luxury. Expect oversized windows, sustainable bedding, and earthy ceramic pieces throughout. Minibars are stocked with healthy, locally made snacks. Bathrooms feature high-end natural skincare products, and every room is equipped with central touchscreen tech for intuitive guest control. While industrial in design, the rooms feel incredibly personal and serene.
The Food & Drink Situation
Hotel Britomart’s on-site restaurant, Kingi, continues the eco-forward ethos with a seafood-centric menu sourced directly from New Zealand’s oceans, dunes, river mouths, and reefs. A provenance guide highlights where each ingredient comes from, reinforcing transparency and sustainability.
Looking to explore more? Food lovers should opt for The Big Foody Food Tour, which offers a taste of Auckland’s rich culinary scene across multiple neighborhoods, including a stop at the renowned Wine Room by David Nash. Celebrating something special? Book a table at Ahi, led by award-winning chef Ben Bayly. His “New Zealand Food Story” tasting menu is a curated journey through native flavors, from Te Matuku oysters with garden granita to wild-shot red deer with black pudding—each plate as visually stunning as it is delicious.
The Amenities
Guests enjoy valet parking, a bar and lounge, private event and meeting rooms, complimentary WiFi, laundry service, and filtered water. One standout amenity? A series of elegant guest libraries—ideal for private wine tastings, cozy reading sessions, or intimate dinners. These serene, sun-drenched spaces offer a sophisticated yet approachable escape from city bustle.
Location & Neighborhood
Set in the heart of Auckland’s Britomart district, the hotel offers instant access to high-end shopping, dining, and cultural attractions. A few must-sees nearby: Weta Workshop Unleashed, the All Blacks Experience, the Sky Tower, Commercial Bay, and Long Bay Beach. For a day trip, hop on the 30-minute ferry to Waiheke Island—a Hamptons-esque paradise filled with wineries, distilleries, and olive farms. We recommend booking with Ananda Tours (ask for Jo!). Back on the mainland, explore New Zealand’s Māori heritage through a personalized TIME Unlimited Tour, or take a cultural hīkoi up Maungawhau (Mount Eden), Auckland’s tallest volcano, with guide and “edutainer” Dane Tumahai, a descendant of Chief Apihai Te Kawau.
Fast Facts
Location: Britomart district, Auckland, New Zealand
Address: 29 Galway Street, Auckland Central, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Rating: Five-Star Green Design Certified
The Vibe: Sophisticated, sustainable, and quietly luxurious—Hotel Britomart is equal parts design-forward and eco-conscious, ideal for travelers who want their stay to reflect their values.
Dining: Kingi, the on-site restaurant, champions sustainably sourced seafood. For a broader culinary journey, try The Big Foody Food Tour or savor fine dining at Ahi by Chef Ben Bayly.
Amenities: Valet parking, bar and lounge, libraries, meeting spaces, filtered water, complimentary WiFi, laundry service
Our Favorite Thing About the Hotel: The sunlit libraries—a rare boutique touch—double as intimate gathering spaces for tastings, events, or quiet reflection.
Nearby Attractions: Weta Workshop Unleashed, All Blacks Experience, Sky Tower, Commercial Bay, Long Bay Beach
Any Personal Neighborhood Rec: Spend a day on Waiheke Island with Ananda Tours, or dive deep into New Zealand's heritage with a guided hīkoi on Mount Eden led by local storyteller Dane Tumahai. While the hotel itself doesn’t house a spa, we recommend venturing to Cordis Auckland’s Chuan Spa, arguably the best in the city. Treat yourself to a signature massage or facial, then unwind in the wellness center’s steam room, dry sauna, pool, or oversized jacuzzi—perfect for decompressing after a day exploring Auckland’s coastlines or volcanoes.
Pricing: Rooms from approx. $134/night
Closest Airport: Auckland Airport (AKL)
