Local Escapes

8 Of The Best Ponsonby Hotels So You Can Stay In The Heart Of The Action

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A wonderfully well appointed living room at the stunning Franklin38 hotel in Ponsonby.

Known for its chic boutiques, delectable dining scene and stylish residents, it’s clear to see why Ponsonby is one of the city’s most sought-after areas to stay in when visiting Auckland.

Whether you’re craving a taste of luxury, a little quirkiness or a cosy home away from home, we’ve got you covered with our list of the best hotels in (and around) Ponsonby. 

Hotel Fitzroy

Richmond Road

If freshly baked croissants in a cloud-like bed and complimentary cocktails and canapés in an elegant library sound like your cup of tea (where do we sign?) then look no further than . Just a five–minute stroll from Ponsonby Road lies this impeccably restored villa where beautifully designed rooms, modern amenities and unrivalled service await. From fresh, fluffy robes to a complimentary mini-bar, Dyson hair-wrap to in-room massages, it’s the unrivalled attention to detail that makes every stay at the 5-star Hotel Fitzroy the most memorable and magical. PS, The complimentary cooked breakfast in bed is the stuff of legends. 

​Franklin38 

Franklin Road 

Nestled amongst the picturesque Ponsonby mansions on the ever-popular Franklin Road lies —a bijou and stylish boutique accommodation for Auckland visitors. Inside the two-storey return verandah Victorian villa are four spacious and gorgeous suites that showcase the perfect blend of period furnishings and contemporary finishes.

With en-suites brimming with Ashley & Co toiletries, Smart TVs with Netflix, and views of the Auckland Harbour from the balcony, it’ll take some persuading to leave the comfort of your luxurious suite. However, we think Prego up the hill might just do the trick. All in all, Franklin38 is the perfect embodiment of a peaceful, private and perfectly luxurious Ponsonby stay. 

The Convent Hotel 

Great North Road

As the name so aptly suggests,  was once a former nunnery. After closing in 1993, it reopened its doors in 2020 as the impressive and reimagined boutique hotel taking Ponsonby by storm. From the theatrical stucco arches to the antique religious relics adorning the walls, it’s clear to see how the building's original use has influenced the eclectic and playful furnishings of this now 22-room boutique hotel.

The rooms are cosy and full of character. Exposed brick walls and industrial hardware meets cosy gingham cushions and textured throws—perfect for creating a cosy reading nook with a glass of red. If the carefully curated rooms weren’t enough of a draw card, the hotel is also housed within the same building as Ada—one of Auckland’s most desirable Italian restaurants. Lucky diners can feast on sharing-style tapas dishes such as slow-cooked, spicy beef short ribs, burrata-covered spaghetti and pillow-like pizza fritta.

The Great Ponsonby Arthotel

Ponsonby Terrace

If you’re looking for that home away from home feel, look no further than . Hosts Barbara and Patrick have transformed their 1890s heritage villa into a striking 11-bedroom boutique hotel that exudes colour, character and charm. Guests can choose to stay in one of the Villa rooms, self-contained Courtyard Studios or the Penthouse, all of which boast en-suites, cosy furnishings and come complete with legendary breakfasts that take place each morning within one of the many communal spaces.

After an afternoon of eating and shopping your way along Ponsonby Road, sink into a couch with a book from the hotel’s mini library or relax on the outdoor verandah in the hotel’s gardens with a glass of the good stuff in hand. 

Quest Ponsonby

Ponsonby Road

If you’re looking for the perfect blend of comfort and convenience, is the place to stay when you’re next in this hip Auckland 'burb. These spacious, self-contained apartments are perfect for guests who want the flexibility of having their own space whilst being on the doorstep of amazing restaurants, shops and attractions when they want it.

Fully equipped kitchenette? Check! High-speed internet and desk? Check! Private laundry facilities? Check! Quest Apartments are ideal for business trips, long-term stays or family groups wanting to stay in Ponsonby.

Ponsonby Manor

Ponsonby Road

Right on the doorstep (quite literally) of Ponsonby lies . Originally built in 1865, this restored Victorian mansion is now a charming bed and breakfast offering a taste of heritage in one of Auckland’s trendiest neighbourhoods. There are 14 spacious and antique-adorned rooms to choose from, all of which give a nod to the building’s original design through stained-glass windows, ornate fireplaces and high ceilings.

As well as having the best of food and fashion on the front door of its Ponsonby Road address (hello Mekong Baby and Muse Boutique), at the back of the hotel, many of the rooms boast private verandahs with unbeatable views of Auckland City and beyond. Did someone say champagne al fresco? 

The Surrey Hotel

Great North Road

Instantly recognisable from its Tudor-inspired exterior and red-awning archway, is one of Ponsonby’s most iconic and affordable accommodation options. Alright, while it’s technically in Grey Lynn, it’s on the Ponsonby fringe so we’ll let this one slide. In fact, the location of The Surrey Hotel is one of the biggest draw cards for Auckland visitors as it’s within walking distance to some of the city’s main attractions including Auckland Zoo and Eden Park. Goodbye, expensive Ubers, hello extra fries fund!

Inside the main hotel you’ll find 50 spacious superior and deluxe rooms and directly across the road is the recently renovated studio unit complex, with 18 motel-style rooms available for short or long-term stays. The cherry on top, however, comes in the form of the hotel’s own gym and indoor pool which is free for all guests to use. Feeling peckish? Well, you’re in luck. As well as being a stellar Ponsonby hotel, the Surrey Hotel is also home to The Surrey Pub—a homely and cosy haunt providing classic bar bites such as burgers, woodfired pizzas and light bites you can wash down with familiar drink favourites. 

Verandahs Parkside Lodge

Hopetoun Street

On the cusp of Ponsonby Road, you’ll find —a charismatic and affordable accommodation option for people looking to stay in Ponsonby. Whether you’re travelling alone or bringing the whole clan, there’s the option of private, share-rooms and mixed dormitories to choose from, all of which have access to the shared common areas and fully equipped kitchen.

As well as being just a stone’s throw from the culinary delights of Ponsonby, Verandahs Parkside Lodge is a convenient five-minute walk from the lights and sights of Karangahape Road.

Now you've bagged the perfect Ponsonby hotel, let your hair down at one of the best restaurants and bars in the area.

Image credit: Franklin38, Hotel Fitzroy Curated by Fable, Franklin38, The Convent Hotel, The Great Ponsonby ArtHotel, Quest Ponsonby, Ponsonby Manor, The Surrey Hotel, Verandahs Parkside Lodge.

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