Why stay here?
Location, location, location. The hotel is just across the road from Wellington’s harbour and the world-class Te Papa Museum. The waterfront precinct is at your doorstep and is easy walking distance to great shopping (think New Zealand designer Kate Sylvester), art galleries, cafés and bars.
Originally located on Wellington’s waterfront when Chris Parkin bought it in 1990, QT Museum Wellington faced demolition two years later to make way for the Te Papa Museum. Parkin instead, took the adventurous step of having the 3000-tonne hotel moved on a train track system 120 metres down the road; a feat watched by a local crowd of more than 1000 people.
Rise and shine breakfast time
The hotel restaurant offers both light and full buffet breakfast. If you are keen to grab a coffee and croissant on your way out the door, stop by the Lobby café and bar.
What’s for dinner?
French restaurant, Hippopotamus, is on the top floor of the hotel and looks across Wellington Harbour. The restaurant’s afternoon high tea won the Global Dilmah High Tea Challenge in 2015 for its service featuring delicate amuse-bouches and mini sandwiches. Hippopotamus holds a hat from New Zealand’s Cuisine Good Food Awards. In-room dining is also available.
Time out
There is everything you need for a relaxing weekend with gymnasium, swimming pool, sauna and spa all on site.
Wow factor
QT Museum Wellington is a boutique luxury hotel with a beating heart. It’s the place to go to mark special events: engagements, anniversaries, date nights and the like.
Formerly the Museum Art Hotel, the property was acquired by the Australian-owned QT Hotels & Resorts in June 2015 and, with Parkin’s eclectic art collection (which will stay in the hotel for the next two years) and boutique furnishings, it seems an ideal fit. The hotel lobby features large contemporary paintings, luxurious motorbikes, quirky chandeliers and gold accents.
Could do better
For me the hotel was perfect. I loved its uniqueness and theatrical character combined with luxury and elegance. However, if clean minimalism is your thing this may not be top of your list.
I would like an upgrade
For an upgrade try the 120 square metre two-bedroom Wellington Suite Penthouse.
Insider tip
If you have the opportunity, book the elegantly appointed Le Salon for private dining.