After a dynamic few days attending MEETINGS 2025, I checked into QT Auckland—an experience that effortlessly transformed a productive business trip into a luxurious escape. Perfectly located in the heart of Viaduct Harbour, QT blends bold art, playful design, and indulgent comfort with a distinct personality that few hotels manage to capture so seamlessly.
A Grand Welcome in the Heart of Creativity
The QT experience began the moment I stepped into the lobby. Inspired by the textures and tones of the sea, the interiors burst with creative flair. Think oyster shell motifs embedded into the carpet, sculptural lighting that twists like waves above your head, and quirky art pieces that add charm and personality to every corner. The check-in process was swift and warm, with friendly staff who struck the perfect balance between professional and relaxed.
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| oyster shell motifs in the carpet |
What struck me most was the atmosphere—this wasn’t a typical hotel lobby. It was a gallery-like space, brimming with creativity, alive with energy, textures, and visual storytelling. The lighting was soft yet dramatic, casting playful shadows across the space, while the seating areas were both stylish and inviting, perfectly balancing comfort and design. The overall effect was both theatrical and welcoming, creating an environment that felt effortlessly chic yet accessible. I felt instantly at ease, drawn into the space’s unique charm, and entirely intrigued by what lay beyond the lift doors, as if a whole new world awaited just around the corner.
A Stylish Selection of Rooms and Suites
QT Auckland offers a variety of accommodation types, each one brimming with its signature flair. Whether you're in town for business or leisure, there’s a space to match your style and needs.
The QT King room is a perfect choice for travellers who want contemporary comfort with artistic edge. It offers a Super King bed, sleek finishes, and all the essentials wrapped in a creative and cozy layout.
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| My QT Junior Suite |
I stayed in the QT Junior Suite, a spacious luxury suite that more than holds its own against the hotel’s top-tier offerings. Located on the higher floors with sweeping, unobstructed views over the Viaduct and beyond, the suite is a true haven above the city, offering a tranquil escape. Lavish textures, soothing warm tones, and bold design details blend seamlessly to create a striking yet inviting atmosphere, making it a true visual and sensory retreat where every corner exudes comfort and style.
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| My QT Junior Suite |
The suite includes all the in-room features you’d expect—and more: a Dyson Supersonic™ hair dryer, Kevin Murphy amenities, a dedicated workspace, minibar, complimentary Wi-Fi, Bose speaker, and room service by QT.
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| My QT Junior Suite |
What truly stood out for me, though, was the bathtub positioned in the main room behind the bed. After a long day at the conference, soaking in that tub was an unexpected highlight. It added a luxurious, spa-like element that transformed a standard business trip into a moment of indulgence.
I especially enjoyed the supplied anihana Blue Ocean bath bomb and the peppermint and lime Muscle Soak Bath Salts—both added the perfect finishing touch to a well-earned unwind.
A Mediterranean Journey at Esther
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| Wood fired oven at Esther |
Dining at Esther was a highlight in itself. Though often seen as a breakfast spot, Esther is far more than that, offering a refined yet approachable dining experience throughout the day. With its warm and inviting ambiance, the restaurant seamlessly transitions from morning light to evening glow, providing the perfect setting for any meal. The full lunch and dinner menu features an exquisite range of dishes, each rooted in the vibrant, sun-soaked flavours of the Mediterranean coastline. Fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, from seafood to seasonal produce, are thoughtfully combined to capture the true essence of the region, with each plate telling its own story of bold flavours, aromatic herbs, and rich textures. It’s not just a meal, it’s an experience—one that transports you to the heart of the Mediterranean with every bite.
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| My dinner pasta |
I began my culinary journey with dinner: a beautifully balanced pasta dish of linguine, delicately infused with the vibrant golden hue of Te Anau saffron, and brightened by the zesty punch of fresh lemon. Topped with a generous sprinkling of Parmigiano, the dish was rich, fragrant, and deeply satisfying. Each bite was a harmonious blend of bold citrus, the earthy warmth of the aromatic saffron, and the indulgent, silky creaminess of the cheese, creating a symphony of flavors that lingered long after the last forkful. The pasta itself was perfectly cooked, tender yet with just the right bite, making for a truly memorable start to the evening
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| My one-pan brekkie |
The next morning’s one-pan brekkie didn’t disappoint either. Served up with care, it featured two perfectly cooked wood-fired hens’ eggs, their yolks golden and runny, paired with crispy, free-range streaky bacon that had just the right amount of smoky crispness. Accompanying this was Burton and Baz’s rich, spicy chorizo sausage, bursting with robust flavour, alongside roasted Spanish tomatoes that were sweet, juicy, and slightly charred, adding a subtle depth. All of this was perfectly complemented by slices of warm, toasted sourdough—crispy on the outside, soft and airy on the inside. Hearty, rustic, and brimming with flavour, it was the kind of breakfast that not only satisfied but left you eagerly anticipating the next bite.
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| My pizzetta |
One afternoon, I opted for a comforting lunch from the Esther Bar: a pizzetta topped with confit garlic, rosemary, ricotta, honey, and pine nuts—crispy and indulgent—paired with a fragrant free-range chicken soup enriched with saffron, couscous, and green vegetables. Simple, satisfying, and elegantly presented.
Esther invites guests on a journey—a coastal stroll along the French Riviera, a sun-drenched lunch in Sicily, or a spice-laden detour through Morocco. The menu reflects the warmth and diversity of these regions, brought to life using New Zealand’s finest produce and seafood.
Inspired by his own travels, the Chef, Sean Connolly, brings tradition and innovation together. His dishes are built on honest simplicity, elevated with bold flavour and a touch of theatrical flair. Seafood, often caught daily, plays a central role—showcased with respect for both seasonality and sustainability.
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| Esther Restaurant |
The restaurant’s open, country-style kitchen adds a welcoming, homely feel to the experience. Watching the chefs work with precision and passion gives guests a real connection to the food they’re about to enjoy.
Whether it’s a long lunch, romantic dinner, or relaxed breakfast with a view, dining at Esther is both a comfort and a celebration.
Sky-High Sips at Rooftop at QT
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| View over Viaduct |
The hotel’s rooftop bar, perched high above the Viaduct, offers panoramic views of Auckland’s glittering harbour and skyline—making it one of the most stylish spots in the city to unwind. After a full day at the convention centre, it was the ideal place to relax with a sundown drink in hand. The vibe was upbeat but laid-back, the music carefully curated, and the cocktails expertly crafted. Whether you're a fan of classic mixes or adventurous infusions, the bar staff delivered with flair. With the golden hour casting a warm glow over the marina, it was easy to lose track of time in this sky-high sanctuary.
QT Auckland Gym & Fitness Centre
QT Auckland features a 24‑hour fitness centre, ensuring guests can work out at their convenience—whether it's an early-morning cardio session or a late-night strength routine.
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| QT Auckland gym |
The gym is well‑equipped with a range of modern exercise machines and free weights, designed to cater to varying workout styles—from weight training to cardio . This fitness centre offers everything needed for a solid full-body workout.
Located on-site and accessible anytime, the gym complements the hotel’s 24-hour service ethos, matching the convenience of its reception and room service.
Standout Hospitality with a Personal Touch
What truly set QT Auckland apart was its service—thoughtful, engaging, and full of personality. From the moment I arrived, I felt like more than just another guest. At check-in, I was greeted with genuine warmth and a light-hearted welcome that instantly put me at ease after a busy day.
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| Welcome treats |
Once in my suite, I discovered a handwritten note from the team, welcoming me by name and wishing me a restful stay. It was accompanied by a small tray of locally inspired treats—an unexpected and delightful surprise that made me feel truly looked after.
Throughout my stay, every staff interaction felt intentional. Whether it was housekeeping checking if I needed anything extra, or restaurant staff remembering my coffee order in the mornings, those small gestures added up to an experience that felt personal and tailored. The team seemed to take real pride in what they do, infusing a bit of creativity and charm into every moment. It’s that rare kind of hospitality that makes a place memorable long after checkout.
Sustainability at the Heart of Hospitality
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| QT Auckland artwork |
QT Auckland is not only focused on delivering exceptional guest experiences but also on minimizing its environmental footprint. The hotel demonstrates a genuine commitment to sustainability through practical and thoughtful initiatives. Water refill stations on every floor encourage guests to reduce plastic waste, while the move away from single-use plastics throughout the property reflects a broader effort to protect the planet.
Locally sourced ingredients in the restaurant support regional producers and reduce food miles, aligning with the hotel’s eco-conscious ethos. Energy-efficient lighting and waste reduction programs are also in place, showcasing how luxury and responsibility can go hand in hand. Staying at QT Auckland means you can indulge in style while knowing your stay supports sustainable practices that benefit both the community and the environment.
Meetings and Events with Mediterranean Flair
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| QT Auckland bar |
QT Auckland’s event space, Limani, offers a stylish and versatile setting for meetings and private gatherings. Designed as a luminous hideaway, it’s perfect for shaking up a corporate catch-up or adding sun-soaked sass to a cocktail event. Flooded with natural light, Limani can comfortably cater for groups ranging from 5 to 80 guests, whether for an intimate dinner or a larger function. The room features wireless in-ceiling projectors and drop-down screens seamlessly integrated into its sophisticated design, ensuring a smooth tech experience. To complete the occasion, guests can indulge in specially curated menus from Esther, QT’s signature Mediterranean restaurant, bringing a taste of the sweet Mediterranean life to every event.
The Perfect Base for Business or Leisure
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| QT Auckland Esther |
QT Auckland’s location couldn’t have been better—perfectly positioned in Viaduct Harbour, right in the heart of the city’s vibrant waterfront district. Whether you’re in town for work or play, the hotel places you just steps from Auckland’s top attractions, dining hotspots, ferry terminals, and commercial centres.
For business travellers, QT Auckland offers a convenient and well-connected base. The soon-to-open New Zealand International Convention Centre, along with major corporate offices, are all within easy walking distance. The seamless blend of comfort, thoughtful amenities, and attentive service makes it easy to shift from work mode to relaxation—especially with the rooftop bar just a short elevator ride away.
For those exploring Auckland at a more leisurely pace, QT is equally well suited. From the Sky Tower and waterfront promenades to nearby galleries, boutique shopping, and nightlife, the best of the city is right on your doorstep. After a day of sightseeing or a full conference schedule, returning to a space that balances style, warmth, and creativity is the ultimate reward.
A Stay That Stays With You
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| QT Auckland artwork |
QT Auckland isn’t just a place to stay—it’s a full sensory experience that leaves a lasting impression. From its bold design and thoughtful service to the culinary delights of Esther and the serenity found high above the harbour, every element is crafted with care and creativity. Whether you're travelling for business, pleasure, or a bit of both, QT delivers a rare combination of style, substance, and soul. After my time at MEETINGS 2025, it offered the perfect blend of productivity and pampering—reminding me that travel can still surprise, inspire, and indulge in equal measure.
To find out more or to book your own stay, visit:
Web: https://www.qthotels.com/auckland
Email: reservations_qtauckland@evt.com
Phone: +64 9 379 9123
For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine"
https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/
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