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The Observatory Hotel Christchurch

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Photo gallery for The Observatory Hotel Christchurch

A cozy room with a purple sofa, wooden flooring, and a brick wall. There are books on a table, a lamp, and a fireplace.
A dining room with a wooden table and chairs, a white lamp, a television on the wall, and a window.
A living room with teal walls, a blue sofa, patterned armchairs, and a flat-screen TV.
A spacious attic bedroom with a large bed, a sofa, and a dining area.
A gym with treadmills, an elliptical, and free weights.

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional

Popular amenities

  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning
  • Gym
  • Breakfast available
  • Parking available
  • Business services

Explore the area

View in a map
9 Hereford Street Christchurch, Christchurch, Canterbury, 8013
  • Place, The Arts Centre
    ‪1 min walk‬
  • Place, Hagley Park
    ‪2 min walk‬
  • Place, Christchurch Casino
    ‪10 min walk‬
  • Airport, Christchurch (CHC-Christchurch Intl.)
    ‪15 min drive‬

Room options

View all photos for Observatory Legacy room- Lower ground floor

A neatly made bed with a patterned headboard, two bedside lamps, and a framed artwork on the wall.

Observatory Legacy room- Lower ground floor

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional
(18 reviews)
  • 269 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed
  • Free WiFi

View all photos for Observatory Deluxe Room

A hotel room with a bed, a desk, a chair, a desk lamp, and a television.

Observatory Deluxe Room

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional
(52 reviews)
  • 269 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed
  • Free WiFi

View all photos for Prestige Skylight Room

A neatly made bed with a patterned headboard, bedside lamps, and a flat-screen TV mounted on the wall.

Prestige Skylight Room

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional
(3 reviews)
  • 344 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed
  • Free WiFi

View all photos for Royal Skylight Room

A bedroom with a sloped ceiling, a bed, a sofa, two chairs, and a small table.

Royal Skylight Room

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(4 reviews)
  • 560 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed
  • Free WiFi

View all photos for Prestige Room

A hotel room with a large bed, a sofa, a chair, a TV, and a window with curtains.

Prestige Room

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional
(11 reviews)
  • 323 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed
  • Free WiFi

About the neighborhood

Christchurch

Heart of Christchurch.A stay at this Christchurch City Centre hotel places you steps from The Arts Centre and within a 5-minute walk of Hagley Park. Christchurch Art Gallery and Riverside Market are also within half a mile (1 km).

What's nearby

  • The Arts Centre - 1 min walk - 0.1 miles
  • Hagley Park - 2 min walk - 0.1 miles
  • Christchurch Art Gallery - 3 min walk - 0.2 miles
  • Riverside Market - 6 min walk - 0.4 miles
  • Christchurch Casino - 10 min walk - 0.6 miles

Getting around

  • Christchurch Railway Station - 11 min drive
  • Christchurch International Airport (CHC) - 19 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪The Little Fiddle - ‬7 min walk
  • ‪Manu Restaurant and Bar - ‬6 min walk
  • ‪Chiwahwah Mexican Cantina Bar - ‬7 min walk
  • ‪The Craft Embassy - ‬7 min walk
  • ‪Fat Eddie's - ‬6 min walk

About this property

The Observatory Hotel Christchurch

5-star luxury hotel near The Arts Centre
As a guest of The Observatory Hotel Christchurch, you'll find a 24-hour fitness center, a library, and tour/ticket assistance. Event space at this hotel measures 269 square feet (25 square meters) and includes conference space. WiFi is free in public spaces. The luxury The Observatory Hotel Christchurch also features coffee/tea in a 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
  • Convenience store
  • Elevator
  • 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 comforters and premium bedding. A pillow menu is available. 49-inch Smart televisions come with digital channels and Netflix. Bathrooms include showers with rainfall showerheads, bathrobes, slippers, and complimentary toiletries.

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

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4.7 out of 5, Exceptional, 646 reviews
$160 nightly
The price is $184
Sep 13 - Sep 14
Total with taxes and fees
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Property amenities

Family friendly

  • Grocery/convenience store

Internet

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

Parking and transportation

  • Height restrictions apply for onsite parking
  • Onsite parking available only on request
  • Uncovered self parking on site (NZD 30 per day)
  • Limited onsite self 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 30 for adults and NZD 30 for children
  • Coffee and tea in common areas

Things to do

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

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Elevator
  • Handrails in stairways
  • Height-adjustable showerhead
  • 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 elevator
  • Wheelchair-accessible public washroom
  • Wheelchair-accessible registration desk
  • Wheelchair-accessible van parking

Room amenities

Entertainment

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

Bedroom

  • Down comforter
  • Pillow menu
  • Premium bedding

Bathroom

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

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 available
A late check-out fee will be charged

Special check-in instructions

The property charges 2 percent for credit card payments
Front desk staff will greet guests on arrival at the property
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

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.
  • Cribs (infant beds) are not available.

Property 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: approximately NZD 30 for adults and 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 percent

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 onsite parking
This property accepts credit cards, debit cards, and cash
This property reserves the right to pre-authorize 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 guestroom reservation. Guests must contact this property in advance to reserve onsite parking. This property accepts Visa, Mastercard, American Express, JCB International, Union Pay, debit cards, and cash. This property reserves the right to pre-authorize 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 each 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).

Property class

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

How close is The Observatory Hotel Christchurch to the airport?

The Observatory Hotel Christchurch is 6.4 mi (19-min drive) away from the Christchurch International Airport (CHC) airport, the closest popular airport to the property.

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

As of Sep 6, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at The Observatory Hotel Christchurch on Sep 9, 2026 start from $176, 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.

Does The Observatory Hotel Christchurch have an airport shuttle?

Airport shuttle services are not available at The Observatory Hotel Christchurch.

How close is The Observatory Hotel Christchurch to the beach?

This hotel is 7.4 mi (21-min drive) from Sumner Beach and 7.5 mi (21-min drive) from New Brighton Beach. Don't forget your sunscreen!

Does The Observatory Hotel Christchurch offer free breakfast?

Free breakfast isn’t provided at The Observatory Hotel Christchurch, but continental breakfast is offered for a fee of NZD 30 for adults and NZD 30 for children. It's available every day from 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM.

Is there a casino at The Observatory Hotel Christchurch?

No, there is no casino at this hotel, but Christchurch Casino (12-min walk) is nearby.

What time is check-in at The Observatory Hotel Christchurch?

Check-in start time: 2:00 PM; Check-in end time: anytime.

Is there free parking at The Observatory Hotel Christchurch?

Free parking is not available at this hotel. Self parking is available for NZD 30 per day.

Does The Observatory Hotel Christchurch have a pool?

The Observatory Hotel Christchurch does not have a pool.

Does The Observatory Hotel Christchurch have a spa?

There are no spa services available at this hotel.

How close is The Observatory Hotel Christchurch to downtown Christchurch?

The Observatory Hotel Christchurch is 0.4 mi away from Christchurch.

The Observatory Hotel Christchurch Reviews

Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 319 out of 366 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 34 out of 366 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 5 out of 366 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 2 out of 366 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 6 out of 366 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

9.8/10

Staff & service

9.6/10

Amenities

9.8/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Pamela

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great hotel, walking distance to many attractions. The rooms are very nice. An excellent stay!
Stayed 6 nights in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Robert

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great location - near to city centre and the botanical gardens. Helpful staff and a nice 'happy hour' tasting in the evenings.
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

anne

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
This is most delightful place to stay!
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Germano

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great location. Beautiful buildings
Stayed 1 night in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Gordon

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Lovely hotel. Staff available for late check in. Rooms are immaculate and beds are dreamy ! Highly recommend to stay when in Christchurch.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Norma

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The staff was very welcoming and helpful. The accommodations were nice and clean. We would go back and stay there again.
Stayed 1 night in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Natalia

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Beautiful boutique hotel.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Richard

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Had a lovely night staying at this hotel. It's been wonderfully designed within the historic building, and such a short walk to the city & gardens and everything that Christchurch has to offer.
Stayed 1 night in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Peter

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
We had a fantastic stay. The stylish fit-out, extremely comfortable bed, and friendly, helpful staff made our visit very enjoyable. We will definitely stay here again.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2026
Verified review

8/10 Good

Susan

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Nice unusual hotel. Comfy bed and nice ambience. We enjoyed our stay.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Jennine

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
A beautiful unique hotel in an excellent location.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2026
Verified review

8/10 Good

Cara

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Great location, average room.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Morgan

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Beautiful place to stay in Christchurch! Close to everything
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

DAVID

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
The hotel was great, cool concept. Great location, friendly staff.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Robert

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Very unique building! Loved the architecture The room had every amenity we could need. The bed was really comfy. Would definitely stay here sgain
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Morgan

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Beautiful historic building immaculately maintained
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Kam

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Delightful stay, walking distance to everything. Only complaint is that our room was very small. As a re-purposed building, I am sure there is a variety of room configurations. Ours was very compact.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Paul

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great location, quiet room
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Amy

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Lovely, unique hotel in convenient location. The service was excellent and we enjoyed the nice coffee/tea and wine service in the library. Highly recommend.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Meghan

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
The building is just incredible!
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Andrew

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Excellent staff, thoughtful and considerate! The hotel itself is super impressive too, in the middle of the Arts Centre it feels as much an old university campus like Edinburgh’s as it is an arts space! Lots of food options nearby too, would definitely recommend.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Douglas

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Interesting historic building, clean and well-sized rooms, friendly and helpful staff.
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Esther

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
We had a great stay at The Observatory in Christchurch. It’s a beautiful hotel—formerly a university—and they’ve preserved the original aesthetic, which gives it a lot of character. The photos honestly don’t do it justice; it’s even more stunning in person. The room and bathroom were very spacious, the bed was extremely comfortable, and everything was spotless. The location is also very convenient. Would definitely recommend staying here.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Nicole

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Lovely staff, excellent amenities close to everything
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2025
Verified review

8/10 Good

Richard

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Enjoyable stay marred only by the inability as a guest to access the bar and dining room area as it was fully booked.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2026

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