Our first two nights in New Zealand were spent at this lovely boutique hotel in the heart of Auckland. Upon arrival to Hotel Debrett we were greeted with such friendly and helpful staff that we felt right at home. They gave us great recommendations on what to do around the city (i.e. walk up Franklin to Ponsonby street for shops and take the ferry to Waiheke island) and Michelle, the owner, even helped us plan a few stops on our campervan route.

More after the jump…

After 13 hours on a plane we were happy to be welcomed to New Zealand with a room drenched in sunlight with loads the windows, a big comfy bed, and many unique design touches (no two rooms are the same!). I wanted to take that green chair from our room (2nd photo) home with me so bad. We also enjoyed a complimentary welcome cocktail in the drawing room which is for the exclusive use of guests of the hotel and is also home to a 24 hour honor bar.

Room and Bathroom Images by Sarah Sherman Samuel
Courtyard Image by Alistair Guthrie

Tips for staying at Hotel Debrett:

1: Every Sunday evening the Caitlin Smith Trio plays live in the hotel’s Kitchen Restaurant. We happened to have dinner there on a Sunday without knowing and was pleasantly surprised with their music and the show. She has a big personality and wardrobe changes to match. 🙂
2: This was the only place in all of New Zealand that we stayed where they didn’t charge for internet access. bonus!
3: Enjoy the honor bar at any hour of the day or night. fancy a drink? you help yourself and write down your name, room number, and what you had.

It is in a great location with walking distance to a lot. We walked to the harbour where we ferried over to davenport and walked up Mount Victoria for a great view of Auckland.
Our favorite eateries in the area were:
1: “The Store” in the Britomart (had a great breakfast here – eggs benedict with summer pea)
2: “Depot” Best meal of the trip. (thank you to everyone that recommended this place, we wanted to go the next day)
3: “Chapel Bar & Bistro” Insanely good fish tacos. Maybe the best ever.
4: “Cafe Hanoi”
5: “Federal & Wolfe” another great breakfast spot

To see more of our trip to New Zealand look here and here and more of Smitten Travels here.