Destination Hamilton? You’re in for a treat. Despite the Auckland-wide glee of hating on Hamiltron, erh, Hamilton, this long stretch of gravel really is worth a visit. And if you’re after a fancy stay, you’ll be pleased to know there’s a bunch of hotels to get amongst. From central city gems to spacious stays with in-room spa baths, Hamilton’s got you.
Here are the best hotels in Hamilton.
Novotel Tainui Hamilton
Alma Street
If you’re after a polished hotel experience in Hamilton, look no further than Novotel Tainui. With sleek, spacious rooms, views of the Waikato River, friendly staff, a fitness centre and a rave-worthy buffet breakfast this hotel is as good IRL as it is on paper making it one of the best hotels in Hamilton. Stroll along the river’s edge and explore the nearby parks, trot across to Hamilton Museum or take a short drive to Hamilton Zoo.
The Narrows Landing Hotel
Airport Road
For more of a boutique B&B vibe, The Narrows Landing Hotel is where it’s at. A great spot for a wedding, a family stay or a romantic getaway, this Hamilton hotel has a little bit of je ne sais quois with quirky stained glass features, a large in-room spa bath, and tasty continental breakfasts. Three minutes’ drive from Hamilton International Airport and 15 minutes from the heart of Hamilton City, it’s the perfect perch for a vacay away.
Ramada By Wyndham
Victoria Street
Housed in a retro-inspired brick fit-out Ramada by Wyndham is an inner-city gem. Being just a twenty-minute drive from Hamilton’s multipurpose event centre Mystery Creek it’s a great stay if you’re in town for a gig. The hotel has a gym-leg day waits for no one—and rooms are air-conditioned for those hot summer days and come with a TV, tea and coffee-making facilities and room service, or you can splash out on an apartment-style room and score a fully equipped kitchen. Naice.
Heartland Ambassador Hotel Hamilton
Ulster Street
Channel your inner mermaid at Heartland Ambassador Hotel Hamilton which boasts in-room bathtubs, an outdoor swimming pool and a hot tub. Choose from a self-contained apartment or studio room and fuel up for the day’s adventures at the buffet breakfast before exploring the streets of Hamilton Central. A ten-minute walk will take you to the Waikato Stadium, and a ten-minute drive to Hamilton Zoo or Waikato Museum so there’s plenty to keep you busy.
Distinction Hamilton Hotel & Conference Centre
Garnett Avenue
Sleep soundly in four-star accommodation at Distinction Hamilton Hotel & Conference Centre. If you’re keen to keep on top of your cardio while you’re away, this is the hotel for you—the gym boasts four row machines and a bunch of other cardio equipment so you can sweat it up. Mahi done, reward yourself with treats in the form of an enviable breakfast buffet at the on-site Garnett’s Restaurant. Legit.
Atrium On Ulster
Ulster Street
Specialising in studio and unit-style accommodation, Atrium On Ulster boasts spacious, quiet rooms with Sky TV if you’re in the mood for a bit of screening service rebellion. Every room has its own bathroom, kitchenette and car park, with the city centre just a three-minute drive away. Get in quick and you might just score yourself the room with the massive barrel hot tub. Legend.
After something a little different? Have a squiz at the best Airbnbs in and around Hamilton.
Image credit: The Narrows Landing Hotel, Novotel Tainui Hamilton, The Narrows Landing Hotel, Ramada By Wyndham, Heartland Ambassador Hotel Hamilton, Distinction Hamilton Hotel & Conference Centre, Atrium On Ulster.
Urban List editors independently select and write about stuff we love and think you'll like too. Urban List has affiliate partnerships, and if you purchase something through the links in this article, we will earn a commission from those partners. To find out more about who we work with and why read our editorial policy here.