Immerse Yourself in Old-World Charm at The Observatory Hotel in Christchurch
Old-world charm and contemporary luxury abound at this former pillar of academia.
The moment you enter the Drawing Room Lounge at The Observatory Hotel, the rich history of the building envelops you like a warm embrace. Dating back to 1877, the original Arts Centre once hosted Canterbury College’s astronomy and physics buildings, where Lord Ernest Rutherford, who famously split the atom, spent his early uni years. At the heart of the hotel, the cosy space is a fusion of kitsch playfulness and heritage charm where you can pore through the books in the library while enjoying a complimentary cuppa.
Each of the hotel’s 33 custom-designed rooms is as unique as the earthly elements they’re named for, such as Lapis, Cadmium and Verdigris. Vivid feature walls in citrus hues, floral William Morris headboards, velvet lounges and statement pieces from local artists punctuate the ornate décor. The Malachite Room, in the attic of the Botany building, offers high, slanted ceilings and a roll-top bath with a skylight overhead.
With all imaginable creature comforts at your fingertips on arrival, including herbal teas and a buttery choc-chip cookie fresh from local bakery Mrs Higgins, you may feel tempted to stay in. Luckily, you don’t need to venture far to get a taste of Ōtautahi Christchurch: the sprawling Arts Centre complex is home to the boutique Lumière cinema, two museums, art galleries and several restaurants and cafés.
Remnants of the building’s scientific past linger, from the old university signage to the refurbished Observatory Tower, which still operates for stargazing student tours. But as the darling of a $290-million postearthquake revival (a decade-long project that saw an entire city block restored from rubble), The Observatory Hotel is now a leading light in the city’s second coming.
