Hotel DeBrett is the kind of small hotel that gives a city a personality. It stands in the High Street area of central Auckland, an old part of the city whose laneways, including Vulcan Lane, hold independent shops, bars and cafés in heritage buildings, and the hotel itself is housed in a historic building that has been converted into a boutique stay. It is a short walk from Queen Street, from the Britomart precinct and from the Downtown Ferry Terminal, so it combines atmosphere with convenience. The appeal is character rather than scale: small, individually styled rooms, a lively ground-floor scene and a location where the city’s best cafés and bars are on the doorstep. It suits travellers who prefer something distinctive to a large international brand and who are comfortable with a smaller footprint and a social, sometimes noisy, setting.
Location and getting around
High Street and Vulcan Lane are in the heart of the CBD, and the main sights are close. Britomart station and the ferries are a short walk downhill, Queen Street is at the end of the lane, and the Viaduct Harbour is about fifteen minutes on foot. The Sky Tower is a little further uphill. Airport buses run to the central city, so arrival is straightforward without a car.
Rooms
Boutique rooms in older buildings vary in size and layout, so read the room descriptions carefully and choose a larger category if you want space. Expect individual styling and a lively atmosphere rather than a quiet, formal feel. If you are a light sleeper, ask for a room away from the street and the hotel’s own bar and restaurant areas.
Who it suits
Couples, solo travellers, friends and design lovers who want to be at the heart of the city’s social scene and who enjoy walking everywhere. It is a good base for an exploring-on-foot trip built around cafés, shops and the waterfront. It is less suited to families who need space or to anyone who needs a very quiet stay.
Good to know
Facilities in a small heritage hotel are limited compared with a large property, so check what is included for breakfast, parking and services on the booking page. City-centre parking is limited and costly, so plan to use public transport. Confirm the current details before you book, as boutique hotels can change their offering.
Why stay here
- ✓Heritage boutique building
- ✓On-site bar and dining
- ✓Walk to Britomart
- ✓Walk to the ferry terminal
- ✓Independent cafés nearby
- ✓Concierge desk
- ✓Air conditioning
- ✓Luggage storage
Good questions
Where is Hotel DeBrett?+
It is in the High Street area of central Auckland, near Vulcan Lane, a short walk from Queen Street, Britomart and the ferry terminal.
Is Hotel DeBrett a good choice for families?+
Boutique rooms in heritage buildings can be compact, so families may find a larger hotel more comfortable. Check the room categories on the booking page.
Is it noisy?+
The area has an active social scene, so ask for a room away from the street and the hotel’s bar areas if you are a light sleeper.
