Why stay here?
The Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour Hotel is set on the water on Auckland’s Waitematā Harbour, a great location in the heart of the city and adjacent to Wynyard Quarter. The clean contemporary design is complimented by the Māori artwork and plentiful natural light. There are several intimate seating areas and water features throughout.
Rise and shine breakfast time
Breakfast is served at the hotel’s Lava Dining restaurant and has excellent buffet and cooked-to-order options. The service is friendly – a healthy juice shot was brought over when I placed my coffee order. There were plenty of healthy choices including a delicious homemade muesli and wonderful congee.
What’s for dinner?
21 Viaduct Café is a casual place to grab a coffee or small bite to eat. It has a nice ambiance with large windows overlooking the harbour. There is also Sabrage Bar, an intimate space to grab a pre-dinner cocktail. The standout, however, is Lava Dining’s dinner service. With its backlit marble interiors casting an amber glow, chef Sebastian Hindrichs delivers a regional menu with a French influence. We enjoyed a spectacular dinner of Bluff oysters, king salmon, wild venison, and crème caramel.
Time out
Open from 10am to 8pm, the hotel’s award-winning SoSpa uses products by French brand Themae and local brand Plantogen.
Wow factor
While some Junior Suites have standard city views, the internally facing suites look out over the hotel’s internal water feature.
I would like an upgrade
The Deluxe Suite is slightly larger than the Junior Suite at 63 square metres, and boasts a separate lounge room, a Nespresso machine and a marble bathroom complete with deep soaking bath and separate shower.
Insider tip
If given the opportunity, book a waterview Junior Suite.