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The Observatory Hotel Christchurch

5.0 star property
Victorian hotel with 24-hour fitness centre and 24-hour front desk

Photo gallery for The Observatory Hotel Christchurch

Reception
Royal Skylight Room
Self-parking (surcharge) 30 per day
Exterior
Lobby lounge

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • 24/7 front desk
  • Air conditioning
  • Gym
  • Housekeeping
The current price is NZ$217
includes taxes & fees
31 May - 1 June

Explore the area

Map
9 Hereford Street Christchurch, Christchurch, Canterbury, 8013
  • Hagley Park
    ‪1 min walk‬
  • Christchurch Public Hospital
    ‪8 min walk‬
  • Christchurch Casino
    ‪13 min walk‬
  • Christchurch (CHC-Christchurch Intl.)
    ‪18 min drive‬

Room options

View all photos for Observatory Deluxe Room

Observatory Deluxe Room

Observatory Deluxe Room

Highlights

Individually furnished
Individually decorated
Air conditioning
Heating
Smart TV
Pillow menu
Renovated in 2022
Premium bedding
  • 25 sq m
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Observatory Legacy room- Lower ground floor

Observatory Legacy room- Lower ground floor

Observatory Legacy room- Lower ground floor

Highlights

Individually furnished
Individually decorated
Air conditioning
Heating
Smart TV
Pillow menu
Renovated in 2022
Premium bedding
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Prestige Room

Prestige Room

Prestige Room

Highlights

Separate sitting area
Individually furnished
Individually decorated
Air conditioning
Heating
Smart TV
Pillow menu
Renovated in 2022
  • 30 sq m
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Prestige Skylight Room

Prestige Skylight Room

Prestige Skylight Room

Highlights

Separate sitting area
Individually furnished
Individually decorated
Air conditioning
Heating
Smart TV
Pillow menu
Renovated in 2022
  • 32 sq m
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Royal Skylight Room

Royal Skylight Room

Royal Skylight Room

Highlights

Separate sitting area
Individually furnished
Individually decorated
Air conditioning
Heating
Smart TV
Pillow menu
Renovated in 2022
  • 52 sq m
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

About the area

Christchurch

A luxury stay in the heart of Christchurch awaits you at The Observatory Hotel Christchurch. You'll be within steps of The Arts Centre and within a short 5-minute stroll of Hagley Park. Highlights at this eco-friendly hotel include in-room free WiFi and Smart TVs. .This business-friendly hotel offers free WiFi in public areas and a 24-hour fitness centre, and has concierge services. Added amenities include coffee/tea in a common area, a 24-hour front desk and a library. Each morning continental breakfast is served between 7:00 AM and 10:00 AM. There's also the convenience of self parking. .Sights within a 10-minute walk of this 5-property class Christchurch City Centre hotel include Christchurch Art Gallery and Riverside Market.

What's nearby

  • Hagley Park - 1 min walk - 0.1 km
  • Riverside Market - 7 min walk - 0.7 km
  • Christchurch Public Hospital - 8 min walk - 0.7 km
  • Christchurch Casino - 13 min walk - 1.1 km
  • Riccarton Road - 20 min walk - 1.7 km

Getting around

  • Christchurch Railway Station - 11 min drive
  • Christchurch International Airport (CHC) - 18 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪The Rockpool Bar - ‬6 min walk
  • ‪The Craft Embassy - ‬6 min walk
  • ‪Rollickin Gelato Café - ‬7 min walk
  • ‪Kaiser Brew Garden - ‬7 min walk
  • ‪Black & White Coffee Cartel - ‬6 min walk

About this property

The Observatory Hotel Christchurch

Victorian hotel with 24-hour fitness centre and 24-hour front desk
As a guest of The Observatory Hotel Christchurch, you'll find a 24-hour fitness centre, a library, and tour/ticket assistance. Event space at this hotel measures 269 square feet (25 square metres) and includes conference space. WiFi is free in public spaces. The luxury The Observatory Hotel Christchurch also features coffee/tea in common area, concierge services, and dry cleaning/laundry services. Limited parking is available for a fee and is offered on a first-come, first-served basis. A complete renovation of The Observatory Hotel Christchurch was completed in May 2022.

This Victorian Christchurch hotel is smoke free.

  • 33 guestrooms or units
  • 3 levels
  • 3 buildings
  • 269 sq ft of conference space
  • 25 sq. m of conference space
  • Built in 1896
  • Conference space
  • Breakfast available (surcharge)
  • Coffee in lobby
  • Dry cleaning
  • Front desk (24 hours)
  • Storage area for luggage
  • Front desk safe
  • Tour and ticket information
  • Concierge
  • Library
  • Corner/local shop
  • Lift
  • No smoking on site
  • Water dispenser
The Observatory Hotel Christchurch offers 33 air-conditioned accommodations with minibars and espresso makers. Each accommodation is individually furnished and decorated. Beds feature down duvets and premium bedding. A pillow menu is available. 49-inch Smart televisions come with digital channels and Netflix. Bathrooms include a shower with a rainfall showerhead, bathrobes, slippers and complimentary toiletries.

Guests can surf the web using complimentary wireless Internet access. Business-friendly amenities include desks and safes, as well as telephones; free local calls are provided (restrictions may apply). Additionally, rooms include coffee/tea makers and a hairdryer. Housekeeping is provided on a daily basis.

Awards and affiliations

Eco-certified property
This property participates in Qualmark Sustainable Tourism Business Award – a programme that measures the property's impact on one or more of the following: environment, community, cultural heritage and the local economy.

Languages

English, Filipino, Hindi, Korean

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Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transport

  • Height restrictions apply for on-site parking
  • Onsite parking available only on request
  • Uncovered parking on site (NZD 30 per day)
  • Limited on-site parking (max 1 space per unit)
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking and van parking available

Food and drink

  • Daily continental breakfast available 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM for a fee: NZD 25 for adults and NZD 25 for children
  • Coffee and tea in common areas

Things to do

  • 24-hour gym
  • Art gallery
  • Bicycle rentals
  • Books
  • Concerts/live shows
  • Library

Family friendly

  • Grocery/convenience store

Conveniences

  • 24-hour front desk
  • Grocery/convenience store
  • Luggage storage
  • Safe at front desk
  • Water dispenser

Guest services

  • Concierge services
  • Dry cleaning/laundry service
  • Housekeeping (daily)
  • Proposal/romance packages
  • Tour and ticket assistance

Business services

  • 269 square feet of conference space
  • Meeting room

Spa

  • Couples treatment rooms

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Handrails in stairways
  • Height-adjustable showerhead
  • Lift
  • Stair-free path to entrance
  • Well-lit path to entrance
  • Wheelchair accessible (may have limitations)
  • Wheelchair-accessible gym
  • Wheelchair-accessible lounge
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking
  • Wheelchair-accessible path to lift
  • Wheelchair-accessible public bathroom
  • Wheelchair-accessible registration desk
  • Wheelchair-accessible van parking

More

  • 3 buildings
  • 3 floors
  • Banquet hall
  • Built in 1896
  • Communal living room
  • Renovated entire property - May 2022
  • Smoke-free property
  • Victorian architecture

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Down comforter
  • Pillow menu
  • Premium bedding

Bathroom

  • Dressing gowns
  • Free toiletries
  • Hair dryer
  • Private bathroom
  • Rainfall showerhead
  • Shampoo
  • Shower
  • Slippers
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Towels provided

Entertainment

  • 49-inch smart TV with digital channels
  • Netflix
  • Streaming services

Food and drink

  • Champagne service
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Electric kettle
  • Espresso maker
  • Minibar

More

  • Air conditioning
  • Desk
  • Free local calls
  • Heating
  • Individual decor
  • Individual furnishings
  • Iron/ironing board
  • Phone
  • Safe

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 2:00 PM; check-in end time: anytime
Minimum check-in age - 18

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM
Contactless check-out
A late check-out fee will be charged

Special check-in instructions

The property charges 2 per cent for credit card payments
Front desk staff will greet guests on arrival at the property

Access methods

Staffed front desk

Pets

  • No pets allowed, but service animals are welcome

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.
  • Rollaway/extra beds are not available.
  • Cots (infant beds) are not available.

Payment types

Important information

Optional extras

The fees and deposits listed below will be charged at the time of service, check-in, or check-out.

  • Fee for continental breakfast: from approximately NZD 30 for adults and from NZD 30 for children
  • Uncovered self-parking fee: NZD 30 per day
  • A late check-out fee will be charged
  • Credit card charges are subject to a surcharge of 2 per cent

This may not be a comprehensive list. Fees and deposits are subject to change and might not include tax.

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
The name on the credit card used at check-in to pay for incidentals must be the primary name on the guestroom reservation
Guests must contact this property in advance to reserve on-site parking
This property accepts credit cards, debit cards and cash
This property reserves the right to pre-authorise the guest's credit card prior to arrival.
Cashless transactions are available
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector and a first aid kit
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A cash deposit or credit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
    This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business or profession. The name on the credit card used at check-in to pay for incidentals must be the primary name on the guest room reservation. Guests must contact this property in advance to reserve on-site parking. This property accepts Visa, Mastercard, American Express, JCB International, Union Pay, debit cards and cash. This property reserves the right to pre-authorise the guest's credit card prior to arrival.
    For guests' safety, the property includes a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector and a first aid kit in all accommodation. Cashless payment methods are available for all transactions.

We should mention

  • This property welcomes guests of all sexual orientations and gender identities (LGBTQ+ friendly).

National rating

Rating provided by Qualmark®, source of official star ratings for accommodation in New Zealand.

Property is also known as

The Observatory Christchurch
Observatory Hotel Christchurch
Observatorty Hotel Christchurch
The Observatory Hotel Christchurch Hotel
The Observatory Hotel Christchurch Christchurch
The Observatory Hotel Christchurch Hotel Christchurch

Frequently asked questions

What is the cancellation policy at The Observatory Hotel Christchurch?

The Observatory Hotel Christchurch offers free cancellation on select room rates. Check out the cancellation policy for more info.

How much does it cost to stay at The Observatory Hotel Christchurch?

As of 16 May 2025, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at The Observatory Hotel Christchurch on 31 May 2025 start from NZ$217.10, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

Is parking available at The Observatory Hotel Christchurch?

Yep, The Observatory Hotel Christchurch has an uncovered self car park for NZD 30 per day. Onsite parking is limited (max 1 space per unit).

Are there any beaches close to The Observatory Hotel Christchurch?

The closest beach to The Observatory Hotel Christchurch is Sumner Beach (11.1 km).

What makes The Observatory Hotel Christchurch a romantic place to stay?

Couples spa treatments and a champagne service, as well as rainfall showerheads and premium bedding in the guestrooms, help set the scene for a romantic weekend at The Observatory Hotel Christchurch.

Does The Observatory Hotel Christchurch serve breakfast?

Yep, continental brekkie is on offer daily from 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM.

Is there a free airport shuttle available at The Observatory Hotel Christchurch?

No, The Observatory Hotel Christchurch does not offer an airport shuttle service.

What time are check-in & check-out at The Observatory Hotel Christchurch?

Check-in begins at 2:00 PM. Check-out time is 10:00 AM.

Are pets allowed at The Observatory Hotel Christchurch?

No, only service animals are allowed.

Is there a golf course on site at The Observatory Hotel Christchurch?

There isn't one on site, but Hagley Golf Course is a short 12-minute walk away.

The Observatory Hotel Christchurch Reviews

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 222 out of 244 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 18 out of 244 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 244 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 244 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 3 out of 244 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

9.8/10

Staff & service

9.4/10

Amenities

9.8/10

Property conditions & facilities

9.6/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Greg

Travelled with partner
Liked: Amenities
First class
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Joyce

Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Mark

Travelled with partner, Travelled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Wonderful hotel very charming- close to restaurants
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Joseph, Bellevue

Travelled with family, Travelled with group
Liked: Amenities, property conditions & facilities
Outstanding, amazing, 5* service and facility!
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

ivan

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Beautiful historic building. Comfortable bed. Great water pressure.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Katelyn

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2025

8/10 Good

James, Northville

Travelled with partner, Travelled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Really enjoyed the hotel and surrounding areas. A bit of constructive feedback: Check in process was a bit clumsy and the breakfast area was not reflective of a top hotel.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2025

8/10 Good

Cheryl

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Good hotel

Beautiful building close to the centre of Christchurch. Everything in walking distance. Nicely appointed room, only downside for us was the room and bathroom were set up for people with disabilities so everything was low level.
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Graham

Stayed 1 night in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Costanza, toronto

Liked: Property conditions & facilities
Stayed 5 nights in Jan 2025

8/10 Good

Steven

Stayed 1 night in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Helen

Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

James

Travelled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Exceeded expectations. Great location. Arts center a great asset. Highly recommended.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Pamela, Kelowna

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Clean
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2025

8/10 Good

Louise

Travelled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Parking available however we didn’t use our car. Walkable to all areas we visited
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Julie

Travelled with partner
We had to book a last-minute reservation at a hotel in Christchurch due to airline issues and chose The Observatory. We ended up being so glad we had the airline mishap, because of this lovely hotel. The staff was so welcoming and went above and beyond themselves to be helpful. The atmosphere was magical, like being in a castle. Our room was beautiful, and the shower was amazing. It was outstanding to see all of the original art on the walls as well as experience the extraordinary exhibit upstairs. Loved being in the middle of great shopping and right next to the botanical gardens. This is a 5 star local.
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jack

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Erica, Palo Alto

Travelled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Fantastic property-revamped college building. Great rooms, lovely lounge. Wine bar close by is great. Staff seems a bit annoyed to have to deal with actual guests. I’m guessing this is due to the nonstop instagrammers. Breakfast was skimpy for the price.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Stephanie

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Adorable hotel in Christchurch!

We stayed here on each of the bookends of our 9 day trip to NZ and thought Christchurch would be underwhelming but this hotel made it so amazing! In an old renovated university turned adorable quaint boutique hotel, the rooms are clean, quiet and adorable! Checkin was super easy and seamless, front desk was very helpful. Beds are SO a comfortable with luxury sheets and pillows (a huge welcome after staying in 3 other hotels during our trip!) The bathrooms are luxurious and spacious and each room had a mini bar and good coffee. The complimentary breakfast is quite good and again in a quaint and relaxing space. We walked to town each day and enjoyed the close proximity we were to the city. We will definitely be coming back to the hotel, highly recommend!!!
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Tiffany

Stayed 1 night in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Tom, Fruita

Stayed 1 night in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Tracy

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Location is everything. 2nd stay and it’s our favourite in Christchurch.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Karim

Travelled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Very cute rooms and lobby, so much history. Loved it.
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Anil, Encinitas

Travelled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Next to a wonderful botanical garden. Close to restaurants.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2024