The Sebel Auckland Viaduct Harbour – Hotel Review

Convenience may be the main drawcard of apartments within The Sebel Auckland Viaduct Harbour but there’s plenty of comfort factor, too. The stay's location alongside the marina and its quiet cluster of moored boats is lovely – within steps of downtown – and the apartments themselves are spacious, with well-equipped kitchenettes and comfy beds. The kicker? The marina-side suites have the same lovely views that nearby hotels tend to charge a pretty penny for. Read on for the full review.

Where is The Sebel Auckland Viaduct Harbour?

On the downtown edge of Viaduct Harbour, steps from Princes Wharf. By car, the airport is only about half an hour away, outside of peak-hour traffic.

What’s near The Sebel Auckland Viaduct Harbour?

You’re in the heart of downtown here, just a few minutes walk from the shopping precincts of Commercial Bay, Britomart and Queen Street. Queens Wharf, the gateway to the islands of Waiheke and Rangitoto, is also just a few minutes stroll. Head a little further – 15 minutes or so on foot – for Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki, the largest art institution in New Zealand featuring an extensive selection of contemporary Māori art, alongside collections from major international artists (at the time of writing, the genius of Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera was on display).

Room types

The Juliet balconies of The Sebel Auckland Viaduct Harbour face either the city or the quiet marina, a lovely touch that flushes rooms with natural light. While Executive Deluxe one-bedroom suites, which have enough space on balconies for a dining set, offer additional coffee-sipping space on warmer days. Kitchenettes in all rooms include an ovens and hotplate, as well as a dishwasher, washing machine and dryer – no utility stone is left unturned. Bathrooms have bathtubs and separate showers.

Restaurants and bars

While there are no restaurants on-site the building has a cluster of eateries at its feet, serving cuisines as varied as sushi, Mexican and Taiwanese. Across the way, Thai and Italian are also on offer – talk about being spoilt for choice.

Travel for work

Spread out at the dining table, make a coffee between video calls and head out for client meetings downtown – The Sebel is made for business travellers. The only let-down is the charge for wi-fi (which can be easily mitigated by becoming an Accor member, free), a somewhat unnecessary extra step.

Fitness centre

Guests have access to a fitness centre on-site, which strangely charges an additional fee for entry.

What you need to know

The old-school newspaper perk exists at The Sebel – request the morning delivery the evening before.

SEE ALSO: 13 Sleek Stays in Auckland Downtown