Initially famous for dodging the wrecking ball in 1993 when it became the largest building in New Zealand to be relocated and wheeled it’s way across the road to make way for Te Papa. Nowadays the Museum Hotel is more well known for its extensive art collection, quirky style, location and who could go past the pillow service.
With just one night in the capital we were prepared to spend a bit more than we normally would on a hotel room to make our stay extra special but it turns out that hotel rooms for 5 in Wellington are somewhat of a rarity (particularly when you book a month out). Even Museum Hotel had no rooms on their website but a quick call to the staff and they sorted a cot bed out for us and we were saved from a night in Pigeon Park.
From the moment we walked in it was the kids dream come true. Sophia stood awestruck staring at the limited edition MV Agusta bike in the foyer, Bella stared worriedly at the half mechanical, half real rabbit on the reception desk and Krystal whispered excitedly “This is so fancy!!”
We stayed in the 2 bedroom apartment and had plenty of room for all of us and within no time the girls were all ensconced in white fluffy robes. In a few more minutes all 5 of us were!
The location was superb – we were so close to Courtney Place for jumping on a bus or walking up to KK Malaysia at the top of Cuba Mall or down to pick up our rental car or across to Te Papa.
The lap pool was awesome with the girls swimming morning and night while James and I sat in the spa pool.
We popped up to Hippopotamus for a drink (including hot chocolates for the girls) at about 5. Perfect timing when going with a family, as it’s before the night time rush where the dining isn’t so child appropriate.
It’s not the cheapest place to stay in Wellington, but it’s certainly one of the best. Child friendly, fun and stylish – it’s well worth staying at.
You can visit their website here.