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The Observatory Hotel Christchurch

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Photo gallery for The Observatory Hotel Christchurch

Lobby lounge
Shower, rainfall showerhead, free toiletries, hair dryer
Gym
Royal Skylight Room
Royal Skylight Room

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional

Popular amenities

  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning
  • Gym
  • Parking available
  • Business services

Explore the area

View in a map
9 Hereford Street Christchurch, Christchurch, Canterbury, 8013
  • Place, Hagley Park
    ‪2 min walk‬
  • Place, Riverside Market
    ‪6 min walk‬
  • Place, Christchurch Casino
    ‪10 min walk‬
  • Airport, Christchurch (CHC-Christchurch Intl.)
    ‪15 min drive‬

Room options

View all photos for Observatory Legacy room- Lower ground floor

Premium bedding, down comforters, minibar, in-room safe

Observatory Legacy room- Lower ground floor

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional
(18 reviews)
  • 25 sq m
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed
  • Free WiFi

View all photos for Observatory Deluxe Room

Observatory Deluxe Room

Observatory Deluxe Room

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional
(48 reviews)
  • 25 sq m
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed
  • Free WiFi

View all photos for Prestige Skylight Room

Prestige Skylight Room

Prestige Skylight Room

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional
(3 reviews)
  • 32 sq m
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed
  • Free WiFi

View all photos for Royal Skylight Room

Royal Skylight Room

Royal Skylight Room

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(4 reviews)
  • 52 sq m
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed
  • Free WiFi

View all photos for Prestige Room

Prestige Room

Prestige Room

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional
(11 reviews)
  • 30 sq m
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed
  • Free WiFi

About the area

Christchurch

Heart of Christchurch.A stay at this Christchurch City Centre hotel places you steps from The Arts Centre and within a 5-minute walk of Hagley Park. Christchurch Art Gallery and Riverside Market are also within half a mile (1 km).

What's nearby

  • The Arts Centre - 1 min walk - 0.1 km
  • Hagley Park - 2 min walk - 0.2 km
  • Christchurch Art Gallery - 3 min walk - 0.3 km
  • Riverside Market - 6 min walk - 0.6 km
  • Christchurch Casino - 10 min walk - 0.9 km

Getting around

  • Christchurch Railway Station - 11 min drive
  • Christchurch International Airport (CHC) - 19 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪The Little Fiddle - ‬7 min walk
  • ‪The Craft Embassy - ‬7 min walk
  • ‪Curators House - ‬3 min walk
  • ‪Chiwahwah Mexican Cantina Bar - ‬7 min walk
  • ‪Manu Restaurant and Bar - ‬6 min walk

About this property

The Observatory Hotel Christchurch

5-star luxury hotel near The Arts Centre
As a guest of The Observatory Hotel Christchurch, you'll find a 24-hour fitness center, a library, and tour/ticket assistance. Event space at this hotel measures 269 square feet (25 square meters) and includes conference space. WiFi is free in public spaces. The luxury The Observatory Hotel Christchurch also features coffee/tea in a common area, concierge services, and dry cleaning/laundry services. Limited parking is available for a fee and is offered on a first-come, first-served basis. A complete renovation of The Observatory Hotel Christchurch was completed in May 2022.

This Victorian Christchurch hotel is smoke free.

  • 33 guestrooms or units
  • 3 levels
  • 3 buildings
  • 269 sq ft of conference space
  • 25 sq m of conference space
  • Built in 1896
  • Conference space
  • Breakfast available (surcharge)
  • Coffee in lobby
  • Dry cleaning
  • Front desk (24 hours)
  • Storage area for luggage
  • Front-desk safe
  • Tour and ticket information
  • Concierge
  • Library
  • Convenience store
  • Elevator
  • No smoking on site
  • Water dispenser
The Observatory Hotel Christchurch offers 33 air-conditioned accommodations with minibars and espresso makers. Each accommodation is individually furnished and decorated. Beds feature down comforters and premium bedding. A pillow menu is available. 49-inch Smart televisions come with digital channels and Netflix. Bathrooms include showers with rainfall showerheads, bathrobes, slippers, and complimentary toiletries.

Guests can surf the web using the complimentary wireless Internet access. Business-friendly amenities include desks and safes, as well as phones; free local calls are provided (restrictions may apply). Additionally, rooms include coffee/tea makers and hair dryers. Housekeeping is provided daily.

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Property amenities

Family friendly

  • Grocery/convenience store

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Height restrictions apply for onsite parking
  • Onsite parking available only on request
  • Uncovered self parking on site (NZD 30 per day)
  • Limited onsite self parking (max 1 space per unit)
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking and van parking available

Food and drink

  • Daily continental breakfast available 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM for a fee: NZD 30 for adults and NZD 30 for children
  • Coffee and tea in common areas

Things to do

  • 24-hour gym
  • Art gallery
  • Bicycle rentals
  • Books
  • Concerts/live shows
  • Library

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Elevator
  • Handrails in stairways
  • Height-adjustable showerhead
  • Stair-free path to entrance
  • Well-lit path to entrance
  • Wheelchair accessible (may have limitations)
  • Wheelchair-accessible gym
  • Wheelchair-accessible lounge
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking
  • Wheelchair-accessible path to elevator
  • Wheelchair-accessible public washroom
  • Wheelchair-accessible registration desk
  • Wheelchair-accessible van parking

Room amenities

Entertainment

  • 49-inch smart TV with digital channels
  • Netflix
  • Streaming services

Bedroom

  • Down comforter
  • Pillow menu
  • Premium bedding

Bathroom

  • Bathrobes
  • Free toiletries
  • Hair dryer
  • Private bathroom
  • Rainfall showerhead
  • Shampoo
  • Shower
  • Slippers
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Towels provided

Food and drink

  • Champagne service
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Electric kettle
  • Espresso maker
  • Minibar

More

  • Air conditioning
  • Desk
  • Free local calls
  • Heating
  • Individual decor
  • Individual furnishings
  • Iron/ironing board
  • Phone
  • Safe

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 2:00 PM; Check-in end time: anytime
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM
Contactless check-out available
A late check-out fee will be charged

Special check-in instructions

The property charges 2 percent for credit card payments
Front desk staff will greet guests on arrival at the property
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Access methods

Staffed front desk

Pets

  • No pets allowed, but service animals are welcome

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.
  • Rollaway/extra beds are not available.
  • Cribs (infant beds) are not available.

Property payment types

Important information

Optional extras

The fees and deposits listed below will be charged at the time of service, check-in, or check-out.

  • Fee for continental breakfast: approximately NZD 30 for adults and NZD 30 for children
  • Uncovered self parking fee: NZD 30 per day
  • A late check-out fee will be charged
  • Credit card charges are subject to a surcharge of 2 percent

This may not be a comprehensive list. Fees and deposits are subject to change and might not include tax.

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
The name on the credit card used at check-in to pay for incidentals must be the primary name on the guestroom reservation
Guests must contact this property in advance to reserve onsite parking
This property accepts credit cards, debit cards, and cash
This property reserves the right to pre-authorize the guest's credit card prior to arrival.
Cashless transactions are available
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a first aid kit
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A cash deposit or credit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
    This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession. The name on the credit card used at check-in to pay for incidentals must be the primary name on the guestroom reservation. Guests must contact this property in advance to reserve onsite parking. This property accepts Visa, Mastercard, American Express, JCB International, Union Pay, debit cards, and cash. This property reserves the right to pre-authorize the guest's credit card prior to arrival.
    For guests' safety, the property includes a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a first aid kit in each accommodation. Cashless payment methods are available for all transactions.

We should mention

  • This property welcomes guests of all sexual orientations and gender identities (LGBTQ+ friendly).

National rating

Rating provided by Qualmark®, source of official star ratings for accommodation in New Zealand.

Property is also known as

The Observatory Christchurch
Observatory Hotel Christchurch
Observatorty Hotel Christchurch
The Observatory Hotel Christchurch Hotel
The Observatory Hotel Christchurch Christchurch
The Observatory Hotel Christchurch Hotel Christchurch

Frequently asked questions

How close is The Observatory Hotel Christchurch to the airport?

The Observatory Hotel Christchurch is 6.4 mi (19-min drive) away from the Christchurch International Airport (CHC) airport, the closest popular airport to the property.

How much does it cost to stay at The Observatory Hotel Christchurch?

As of Jun 20, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at The Observatory Hotel Christchurch on Jun 29, 2026 start from CA $144, excluding taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

Does The Observatory Hotel Christchurch have an airport shuttle?

Airport shuttle services are not available at The Observatory Hotel Christchurch.

How close is The Observatory Hotel Christchurch to the beach?

This hotel is 7.4 mi (21-min drive) from Sumner Beach and 7.5 mi (21-min drive) from New Brighton Beach. Don't forget your sunscreen!

Does The Observatory Hotel Christchurch offer free breakfast?

Free breakfast isn’t provided at The Observatory Hotel Christchurch, but continental breakfast is offered for a fee of NZD 30 for adults and NZD 30 for children. It's available every day from 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM.

Is there a casino at The Observatory Hotel Christchurch?

No, there is no casino at this hotel, but Christchurch Casino (12-min walk) is nearby.

What time is check-in at The Observatory Hotel Christchurch?

Check-in start time: 2:00 PM; Check-in end time: anytime.

Is there free parking at The Observatory Hotel Christchurch?

Free parking is not available at this hotel. Self parking is available for NZD 30 per day.

Does The Observatory Hotel Christchurch have a pool?

The Observatory Hotel Christchurch does not have a pool.

Does The Observatory Hotel Christchurch have a spa?

There are no spa services available at this hotel.

How close is The Observatory Hotel Christchurch to downtown Christchurch?

The Observatory Hotel Christchurch is 0.4 mi away from Christchurch.

The Observatory Hotel Christchurch Reviews

Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 301 out of 345 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 31 out of 345 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 5 out of 345 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 2 out of 345 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 6 out of 345 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

9.6/10

Staff & service

9.4/10

Amenities

9.8/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jennine

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
A beautiful unique hotel in an excellent location.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

DAVID

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
The hotel was great, cool concept. Great location, friendly staff.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Amy

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Lovely, unique hotel in convenient location. The service was excellent and we enjoyed the nice coffee/tea and wine service in the library. Highly recommend.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Paul

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great location, quiet room
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Douglas

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Interesting historic building, clean and well-sized rooms, friendly and helpful staff.
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Chunsheng

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
A beautiful historic building
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Nicole

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Lovely staff, excellent amenities close to everything
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Craig

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Gear location and the room was lovely. Check in was easy and the staff was very accommodating.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Margaret

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
This place was amazing! Fascinating grounds, great location, right across the street from the botanic Gardens. The staff were courteous and friendly. The amenities exceeded my expectations. Felt very safe here.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Thomas

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Staff, location, history.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Raphael

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Place is located conveniently, a great renovation of an old college.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Paul

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great location, super staff and facilities. Quirky and clever use of the space
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Michelle

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Great location and beautiful hotel. The rooms are a little small, but well appointed. You can walk to great food options and there is easy street parking
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Doris

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Lovely hotel with great common areas in a wonderful part of town.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Wonderful hotel!
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025
Verified

8/10 Good

Dr Jane

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Room was very clean. Staff were amazing, really friendly and welcoming. Building and communal areas were very interesting. Well stocked, if rather expensive, mini bar. Lovely free welcome gift of honey and handmade soap.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

JH

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Beautiful designed and well kept hotel right downtown
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Rosa

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
This hotel was a highlight, absolutely beautiful, interesting, central, super clean, loved it. The rooms and staff were amazing and certainly made a Christchurch stay worth it.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025
Verified

8/10 Good

Colin

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Clean rooom
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Gary

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Terrific place.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2025
Verified

8/10 Good

Tasi

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Loved our stay here. Great location. Lovely rooms. Friendly staff. Will return again.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

alastair

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Great location, next to a great space for exploring. Lovely interiors and staff. Relaxed calm atmosphere. We only stayed over one night and wished we’d stayed longer.
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ian

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Historical convenient location
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Srinath

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
It is a very cool hotel inside a grand university building that has been fully renovated with the latest fixtures. It is in the heart of town and you can easily walk to restaurants, botanical garden and other attractions. They even left us a gift box of local honey, soap and chocolates. The staff was very friendly. The place was a bargain compared to the various other places we stayed on our trip to New Zealand.
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Beatriz

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Building and location are excellent . Reception staff was brilliant and night manager too. Breakfast was a bit mean and many items were finished by the time we got there at 8am. Rooms are comfy, bright and clean, ver comfortable indeed
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025