The Observatory Hotel Christchurch

I had a wonderful stay at The Observatory Hotel. The building itself is full of character, with fascinating nooks and crannies to explore. Its location within the Arts Centre makes it extra special — surrounded by creative neighbors and free interactive exhibitions just steps away. The staff were warm, welcoming, and genuinely attentive. I especially appreciated the complimentary coffee and tea available throughout the day, which made the space feel even more inviting. Overall, I felt truly cared for and at home here. Highly recommend!

Rooms were nice but a bit pokey, decor was a boarding school vibe. Struggle to see its 5 star. Clean. The actual building is beautiful and arriving is a treat. But getting inside was a struggle, as you need to call someone to the door. Close to Oxford Terrace with some exceptional eateries.

Wonderful boutique hotel situated in the grounds of a noted former university campus. I was warmly welcomed despite my late flight, the room was cosy with a comfortable bed and loads of pillows, and the bathroom is elegant with quality amenities and a fabulous shower. The hotel is close to the CBD and eateries and has a lovely lounge area with books and games as well as free tea and coffee. The art works lining the walls reflect the arts precinct the campus has become, and there’s a great breakfast/brunch spot, the Quad Eatery, in the grounds as well as food trucks and a speciality fudge shop. Overall a quiet yet buzzy place to stay.

We loved our stay at the Observatory Hotel. Friendly, welcoming staff. Beautiful styling, lush furnishings, and plenty of extra touches to make it feel extra special such as comfy pillows, quality hand lotions, and complimentary espresso coffee. Amazing location with historical importance - highly recommend the Lord Ernest Rutherford collection in the Arts Center.

What a beautiful boutique hotel! We loved our two-night stay here. Our room was extremely comfortable, and all of the small touches made it feel all the more luxurious.||We were welcomed very warmly, and given a short history of the hotel. Its location within the old Canterbury University precinct is stunning, and full of stories. ||The city centre is also very easily walkable, the Botanical Gardens are just across the road, and there are fabulous restaurants and bars mere metres away.||Absolutely perfect and, should we return to Christchurch, we’ll be sure to stay here again.

Great location and atmosphere right within the stunning stone-built gothic-style historic buildings of the former university site. Wonderful that accommodation is available on the site adding to the overall eclectic mix of uses within the restored buildings. The hotel has a range of rooms (and tariffs) and draws wonderfully in its decor and amenities in its portion of a very attractive and interesting complex with great shops, cafes, galleries, cinema and more. As well, the hotel is adjacent to the botanic gardens and very close to the city art gallery as particular places of interest. It is also only a short walk across the Avon River to the large range of eateries etc which are in that vibrant part of the city. Highly recommended.

The reception staff were all very welcoming and helpful and especially when I forgot which way to get to my room ( I have no sense of direction). The staff on each shift were really lovely and I felt really at home. The architecture is amazing, the room was cosy and comfortable and bathroom was quite special with beautiful vintage looking taps etc.

A lovely one night stay for our wedding anniversary in the beautifully restored hotel with NZ art work throughout. It is situated in the perfect setting of the Art Centre where we went to Cellar Door for dinner.