Since the major earthquakes in 2010 and 2011, Christchurch has undergone a rigorous process of restoring or rebuilding. Those setbacks still have not managed to diminish Christchurch’s huge appeal to travellers from near and far, who come for the pleasant garden city atmosphere and salubrious sea-side climate.
Here at TravelMag.com we have built our own list of the top five hotels in town from over 300 properties. After thorough research, we base our choices on a number of factors including location, recent reviews from previous guests and amenities, among others.
ORARI BED AND BREAKFAST
From $134/ night
Boasting a fantastic location right in downtown Christchurch Orari bed and breakfast is only 3 minutes on foot from Canterbury Museum. The building is historic, having been first constructed in 1893 and refurbished to give it a fresh, airy feeling inside the rooms. Breakfasts are included and consist of free range eggs and bacon among other things. Better yet, a free glass of wine is offered to guests every evening.
LILAC ROSE BOUTIQUE B&B
From $108/ night
Another historic hotel, Lilac Rose was built in 1895 and there is a real sense of opulence and luxury about the place. Bathrooms have modern furnishings as well as bathrobes and free toiletries. Meanwhile outside the property there is a lovely garden surrounding an outdoor hot- tub. Other great perks of a stay at Lilac Rose include a guest lounge and free mountain bike rental offers a great alternative to explore the city by.
AT THE BEACH B&B
From $117/ night
At The Beach B&B is perfect for anybody who would much sooner paddle in the sea or catch some rays on Waimairi Beach than wander around the city. Even so, a bus stops outside the property that heads right to the city centre and the free bike rental is great for those who would prefer to get there under their own steam. Rooms have a balcony or patio, free wifi and breakfast is provided and included in the price.
FINLAY BANKS BOUTIQUE B&B
From $128/ night
Ideal for those who have a car, the peaceful and pleasant Finlay Banks Boutique has a very personal feel to it. The city centre is 15 minutes by car, whilst the airport is roughly 20 minutes away. Locally there are shops and restaurants within easy walking distance. En-suite rooms offer bathrobes, slippers and toiletries as well as flat-screen televisions. The hosts at Finlay Banks put on a communal continental breakfast each morning as part of the price.
175 METROPOLITAN EXECUTIVE MOTEL
From $98/ night
The best value option on this list, 175 Metropolitan offers modern, comfortable studios and also has a number of larger apartments. The latter have a hot tub and refrigerator. Al rooms have their own kitchenette. Although breakfast is not included in the price, it is possible to buy one at the motel or head to one of the numerous restaurants within 10 minutes of the property on foot. Westfield Mall is just 200 metres from the motel and the city centre is 10 minutes’ drive.