THE HOTEL BRITOMART

The near two-decade gentrification of Auckland’s Britomart precinct —a transformation of derelict heritage buildings into what is arguably the city’s most stylish waterfront neighborhood—has culminated in the opening of the first 5 Green Star–certified hotel in New Zealand. A central, Melbourne-style laneway connects a beautifully renovated historic warehouse building to a modern, 10-story hotel tower clad in hand-made bricks. Cheshire Architects, the city’s go-to designers for contemporary, restrained elegance, have outfitted the 99 cocoon-like rooms and five rooftop suites with timber-clad walls, sexy tiled bathrooms, and local ceramics. Contemporary Kiwi art lines the walls, while The Libraries, located on the first floor, provides possibly the chicest conferencing and private-dining facilities in the city. Kingi, the hotel’s sole restaurant, serves up delicious, sustainably sourced seafood including signature Chatham Island cod “wings.” The Britomart might lack big-city hotel facilities, but never mind: some of Auckland’s best dining spots, luxury stores, gyms, and other conveniences are within a oneminute walk. thehotelbritomart .com; doubles from US$200

KIWI COOL A sitting area in the lobby at The Hotel Britomart. Above: The art deco–inspired facade of Capella Hanoi. Opposite, from top: The Johri at Lal Haveli’s ruby-hued Manek suite; a soaking tub in a guest room at Higashiyama Niseko Village, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve.