Location:
Perched on one of Wellington’s steeper streets – but near the bottom, phew – Sofitel has the benefit of feeling as though it’s on the edge of the city centre while still being within easy walking distance of the action.
Perfect For:
Travellers who want a plush experience, from a quiet romantic getaway to a business trip, with easy access to the halls of power and business district.
First Impressions:
One of the swifter check-ins I’ve had, particularly with the help of the valet service. The friendly staff had me on my way in the blink of an eye.
Side note: this hotel might have the softest carpet I’ve ever felt. I was surprised to feel my heels sinking in as I made my way down the quiet hallways to my room.
The bathroom in the suite includes a bath that feels akin to a swimming pool. Photo / Melissa Nightingale
The Room:
The Prestige Suite seems like it goes on forever. I enter a generous sitting room with an attached balcony and am pleased to see a selection of treats on display, including, impressively, the Herald logo piped in chocolate. Delicious.
The separate bedroom has stunning views over the city and harbour, which are particularly enjoyable as I’ve arrived on one of those fabled Wellington good days.
There is a well-stocked mini bar, a TV for both rooms, and USB charging ports on either side of the bed.
Bathroom:
The bathroom is spacious, boasting a wide tub that feels a little like a swimming pool and has a small collection of bath bag infusions and a bath bomb beside it. There is a separate overhead rain shower and an extensive array of complimentary toiletries such as dental and shaving kits, nail files and more. The soaps are Balmain Paris brand.
Jardin Grill, the in-house restaurant, is worth a visit even if you’re not staying at the hotel.
Facilities:
There is a well-equipped gym featuring a wide range of strength machines and other exercise tools. Wi-Fi access is free but a bit of a pain to sign up for. The aforementioned valet service is a great option to have as well, especially on Bolton St, which is very steep.
Food and Drink:
The hotel’s in-house restaurant, Jardin Grill, is an absolute treat and definitely worth a visit even if you’re not staying there. For my dinner, I enjoy flatbreads with a cherry and vanilla-infused butter that tastes like a dessert, and a ribeye steak with five different types of mustard, because why not?
Why not have a steak with five different types of mustard? Photo / Melissa Nightingale
The breakfast buffet also has a great selection, including various sweet treats and pastries you’d expect to find in a fancy bakery, and more savoury options such as pork buns and focaccia. There’s also a juicer guests can use to create their own concoctions.
For those with club lounge access, there are also multiple opportunities for a tasty snack, including a light afternoon tea followed by canapes and cocktail hour. I find it a struggle to stop myself going back for more macarons, which I enjoy in a cosy armchair in the corner.
In the Neighbourhood:
This high-rise offers gorgeous views over the water and is just minutes’ walk from Parliament, the busy Terrace and Lambton Quay areas, and the waterfront. You’re also a short walk from Sky Stadium and the TSB Arena.
The Best Bit:
The club lounge really is a great spot to rest with a bite to eat, and it’s clearly popular with other guests as I find it buzzing with chatter when I visit. Gourmet snacks, drinks and comfy seating make for a great combo.
The Prestige Suite includes a large, separate sitting room and balcony.
Room for Improvement:
It’s hard to find anything wrong with the Sofitel. It would be nice to have some softer lighting options in the bathroom, and a website that’s easier to navigate and explains where to find various services and what times they are running, but the lovely front counter staff are also quick to help answer questions.
Sustainability:
Sofitel has a range of sustainability measures, including recycling their cooking oil, elimination of single-use plastics where possible and monitoring of food waste.
The culinary team also use free-range eggs, locally farmed Haku Kingfish and ethically sourced Valrhona chocolate.
Accessibility:
Sofitel Wellington is wheelchair-accessible and offers six dedicated accessible guest rooms, with walk-in showers and shower seats. The hotel also has a wheelchair available on-site for guest use if required.
Price:
Classic room rates typically range between $300–700 per night, while superior rooms are usually between $350-800. These can increase during high-demand times. The Prestige Suite ranges between $3000-4500.
Contact:
For more information visit sofitel.accor.com or call +64 4 472 2001.