Top 10 Cool and Unusual Hotels in Hamilton NZ

On the banks of the stunning Waikato River lies the vibrant city of Hamilton known for its rolling green hills, award-winning Hamilton gardens, kaleidoscopic street art, gastronomic adventures, diverse wildlife, black sand surf beaches, and magnificent limestone caves. From outdoorsmen to epicureans to adventurers, the eclectic city caters to all breeds of vacationers alike. 

Ride big waves in the surfing mecca of Raglan, saunter through the exquisite Hamilton Gardens, meet the country’s most endangered bird species at Sanctuary Mountain, cycle along the meandering trails of the Pureora Forest, revel in breathtaking city views on a hot balloon – there’s so much you can do here. 

The city has plenty of romantic retreats, historic boutique hotels, and quirky B&Bs. Here are the top cool and unusual hotels in Hamilton, New Zealand (in no particular order)...

1. On The River – a cool, trendy and unique B&B surrounded by beautiful nature and Instaworthy views

If you love scenery just as much as I do, you won’t find a better place than this romantic property on the banks of the Waikato River. While staying here, you’ll be surrounded by panoramic views of the river from all sides. 

Not only does this cozy retreat boast a perfect location but also offers an easygoing atmosphere with amenities galore. You can choose between two accommodation options i.e. a five-bedroom house and a self-contained suite. 

Inside the house are five beautifully appointed bedrooms, a fully functional kitchen, a living area, and an outdoor dining area with gorgeous river views. The floor-to-ceiling front wall of the living room exposes you to amazing scenery. 

Address: 458 Airport Road, RD2, Hamilton 3282, New Zealand

• To book, check prices or availability for On The River

2. Charlemont Street – easily one of the coolest guesthouses to stay in Hamilton perfect for Millennials and Gen Zs

This downhome property is situated about a mile from Waikato Stadium and presents a distinctive take on domesticity and comfort. The welcoming atmosphere of the townhouse will make you feel just at home. 

Each of the three bedrooms has a double bed, sleeping up to two people. There’s also a small living room with a dining area next to which is a fully functional kitchen. The living room has a glass sliding door that opens onto a sun terrace. 

Address: 3 Charlemont Street, 3200 Hamilton, New Zealand

• To book, check prices or availability for Charlemont Street

3. VR Hamilton – a quaint and charming hotel that offers spacious rooms, the perfect family holiday, a couple’s escape or a short break with friends

Blending Victorian grandeur with its Hamilton heritage, VR Hamilton pampers guests with conscientious service and top-end amenities. The pre-Colonial gem sits peacefully amid eateries and bars in the buzzing heart of Hamilton. I have never seen a more seamless amalgamation of historic charm and modern elegance. 

A powerful vintage energy takes you by surprise the moment you enter the hotel’s Victorian lobby. You can expect to be engulfed by a more formidable force when you step into palatial rooms with period-style decor. 

You’ll be impressed to see how subtly modern details combine with classic furnishings to provide you with the utmost comfort. Rooms and suites come with all sorts of amenities, including coffee makers, flat-panel TVs, and even whirlpool baths. 

Address: 237 Victoria Street, Hamilton Central, Hamilton 3204, New Zealand

• To book, check prices or availability for VR Hamilton

4. English Tudor House – a quirky-chic historic guesthouse that is the perfect home away from home

Forget all your worries and snuggle down at this homey property in the heart of Hamilton. As the name implies, the holiday home is set in a Tudor Revival cottage that has been refurbished in a contemporary style. 

The charming cottage is fronted by a garden with outdoor furniture, a deck with a dining table, and a roman swimming pool. The deck features the front door which takes you to a spacious living room next to which is a dining area with floor-to-ceiling windows and roof windows. 

You’ll love how immaculate the kitchen is. It comes with all the necessary equipment and a 3-person breakfast bar. Beside the kitchen is a separate dining room with seating for six. Two bedrooms come with large double beds, while each of the other two has a single bed. 

Address: 3 Armagh Street, Hamilton East, Hamilton 3216, New Zealand

• To book, check prices or availability for English Tudor House

5. The Narrows Landing Hotel – a cool country-style boutique hotel that is within close proximity to Hamilton International Airport

With its country-chic exterior, laid-back vibe, and top-quality service, The Narrows Landing Hotel has become one of the most in-demand hotels in Hamilton. 

It is located about two miles from the Mystery Creek Events Centre with Hamilton Gardens accessible within a 10-minute drive. 

Relaxed rooms are fitted with verandas or balconies, coffee makers, flat-panel TVs, and living spaces. There’s a three-bedroom apartment that comes with a combined sitting and dining area and a kitchen. 

Address: 431 Airport Road, Hamilton 3282, New Zealand

• To book, check prices or availability for The Narrows Landing Hotel

6. Novotel Tainui Hamilton – a contemporary, trendy and sleek hotel where guests can enjoy an award-winning restaurant 

Affording amazing views of the Waikato River, Novotel Tainui Hamilton guarantees an exceptional lodging experience with an award-winning restaurant and a fitness center. 

The 4-star hotel lies about a mile from Lake Rotoroa with the Novotel Tainui Hamilton reachable within a 15-minute walk. 

In-room amenities offered at this sleek hotel include coffee makers, work desks, flat-panel TVs, iPod docks, and mini-fridges. Guests can also luxuriate in deep-tissue massages at the in-house spa. 

Address: 7 Alma Street, Hamilton Central, Hamilton 3204, New Zealand

• To book, check prices or availability for Novotel Tainui Hamilton

7. Cedar Park Bed & Breakfast – a cool and unusual B&B that offers great facilities including a swimming pool

Embodying an authentic B&B culture, Cedar Park Bed & Breakfast allows you to see Hamilton from a different lens. I personally love how it skillfully combines rustic charm with urban hospitality to offer an out-of-the-box experience. 

If you’re not big on downtown vibes and looking for a secluded retreat away from the city, you’ll love it here. Snug rooms are decorated in ivory and alabaster tones with a minimalist vibe and thoughtful details. 

You can expect all basic amenities at this B&B, from flat-panel TVs to walk-in showers in the bathrooms. Most rooms have a sliding glass door that opens onto a balcony looking over lush gardens. 

I can’t imagine anything more relaxing than enjoying a continental breakfast while indulging in picturesque views of the countryside. 

Address: 7 Cedar Park Road, Tamahere 3283, New Zealand

• To book, check prices or availability for Cedar Park Bed & Breakfast 

8. Quest Hamilton Serviced Apartments – a casual and modern aparthotel housed in a redbrick building in the city center

Set in a red brick building in downtown Hamilton, Quest Hamilton Serviced Apartments offers homey warmth with modern luxuries. The casual apartment hotel sits a block from the Waikato River with easy access to Lake Rotoroa. 

Standard units include well-equipped kitchenettes and flat-screen TVs, while one- to two-bedroom apartments come with living areas, dining tables, and full kitchens. I just love the beige and white color scheme featured in some bedrooms. 

Address: 51 London Street, Hamilton Central, Hamilton 3204, New Zealand

• To book, check prices or availability for Quest Hamilton Serviced Apartments

9. Heartland Ambassador Hotel Hamilton – an unpretentious place to stay in central Hamilton

Presenting a unique side to kiwi hospitality, Heartland Ambassador Hotel Hamilton is nothing short of an idyllic retreat in the heart of the city with excellent shopping and entertainment nearby. Guests lodge in warm rooms with all modern conveniences without frills. 

Some of the many amenities available in rooms include mini-fridges, coffee makers, ergonomic workstations, flat-panel TVs, and balconies or patios with sliding glass doors. With specialized pet-friendly rooms, the 4-star hotel has become extremely popular among pet owners. 

Address: 86 Ulster Street, Whitiora, Hamilton 3200, New Zealand

• To book, check prices or availability for Heartland Ambassador Hotel Hamilton 

10. Robyn’s Retreat – a conventional and stylish accommodation where guests can relax their minds and bodies

An absolutely beautiful holiday home with an elegant interior, peaceful surroundings, and top-grade amenities. It sits about five miles from Hamilton Gardens with many restaurants and cafes nearby. 

The one-bedroom apartment has a minimalist living room with a small dining area and a kitchenette. The floor-to-ceiling windows let you take delight in idyllic garden views. There’s also a pool if you like swimming. 

Address: 13 Longwood Place, 3210 Hamilton, New Zealand

• To book, check prices or availability for Robyn’s Retreat

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