Auckland is New Zealand’s most populous city. A young city by global standards, Auckland is like a teenager experiencing a growth spurt. The City of Sails is currently home to 1.4 million people but the population is expected to swell to 2 million by 2031 so significant changes are underway in preparation. City streets are being torn up to accommodate the city rail link and cranes dominate the horizon as a host of new towers take shape. Visitors to Auckland during this metamorphosis will appreciate a haven from which to escape the mayhem on the streets and CityLife Auckland offers exactly that. This completely refurbished all apartment hotel provides all the comforts of home with a raft of facilities that make it so much better. Read on for all the details …
CityLife Auckland Overview
We only had one day in Auckland and we chose to spend it at City Life Auckland. CityLife Auckland is one of 20 hotels across New Zealand in the Heritage Hotel group. The Heritage Experience (THE) aims to provide a refreshing contrast to everyday life by delivering timeless hospitality in today’s modern world. HIE not only looks after their guests with tailored solutions but they are dedicated to assisting the communities in which they operate and supporting local producers. CityLife Auckland is a luxury 4½ star apartment hotel in the heart of Auckland’s CBD about 30 minutes from Auckland International Airport. Make sure you read my tips on scoring a cheap flight before you book! With 157 rooms spread over 24 floors, Citylife Auckland is suitable for both business and leisure travellers and can also accommodate extended stays. On arrival, the auto doors part to reveal a bright, spacious foyer bursting with fresh flowers and heritage touches. Comfortable couches allow you to relax in style and subdued lighting adds to the ambiance. The reception is manned 24 hours a day and late night entry is secure to give you peace of mind.
CityLife Auckland Rooms
CityLife Auckland has 7 room types to cater to guests from all walks of life. You can tell a lot of thought has gone into the design of the rooms and thinking about how guests will use the space. On entering room 2109, our 1 bedroom executive suite, the first thing I noticed was the narrow table perfectly placed to unload full hands yet clearly carefully selected so as not to compromise the walkway. To the left is a generous and modern kitchen stocked with everything you need to whip up a feast. Every surface was meticulously clean which created a great first impression.
The generous combined living and dining room seats four comfortably and felt very spacious with just the two of us. The Hubs made good use of the cable TV while I indulged in some complimentary wi-fi. Large windows flooded the room with natural light and we threw the doors of the juliet balcony open in the morning to enjoy the breeze. If you look closely and on just the right angle you will notice glimpses of the water including the Auckland Harbour Bridge, which I think looks suspiciously like the one my home town.
The compact bathroom is a nod to the past with all the mod cons. The ultra deep tub which dominates the space is a little tricky to get in and out of so make sure you use the step and grab rail. If you have mobility issues I would suggest requesting a disability room. The shower over the tub was a bit under power but I was pleased to see a glass screen. I have a real phobia of shower curtains. Oh and did I mention the heated towel rails? I seriously need to get one of these for home!
Does anyone else get just a little bit excited about checking out all the miniature lotions and potions in hotels? No … Hmmmmm maybe it’s just me then. CityLife Auckland offers products from Manuka Spa which are proudly made in New Zealand. I was particularly impressed to see facial cleanser, make up remover, exfoliating body scrub and a bath infusion among the usual shampoo, conditioner and body lotion.
HIE takes the business of sleeping very seriously. In fact years of research has gone into studying the ideal sleeping environment to ensure guests sleep soundly. The king size Sleepyhead bed was exceptionally comfortable and the pillows agreed with my very fussy husband but if they are not to your liking order from the pillow menu. The lavender sounds intriguing! Block out curtains, double glazing and noise insulation mean that none of the sounds of the city below will disturb your slumber. And I will never say no to chocolates on my pillow 🙂
Exceptional Service
I simply cannot say enough about the service at CityLife Auckland. Every single staff member was a delight to deal with from the moment we arrived until well after check out. We used the valet parking service for our airport rentals hire car and drop off was as smooth as silk. Check in went off without a hitch and our server provided the low down on all the essentials. Our porter was ready and waiting with our bags to escort us to our room with a smile. Almost immediately on entering panic struck when I couldn’t find my mobile phone in my bag. I headed back downstairs to check the car. Not only did the porter accompany me to the underground car park, he even helped me search. Still no luck. I enquired with the front desk thinking I might have left it on the counter as I checked in but that also came up empty. By the time I returned to our room The Hubs had received a phone call from our exceptional porter offering to check the CCTV footage to see if they could pinpoint where it might be. That’s what I call going above and beyond! I’m a bit embarrassed to say that after all that drama I caused it was in The Hubs’ backpack all along. I have no clue how it ended up there but I’m very grateful for the support offered by the staff during my dilemma.
I mentioned earlier that CityLife Auckland locks the doors at night for security purposes and you need to use your room key to enter but we never had to do that. The staff at the front desk are so on the ball, they remembered us as we exited and released the doors each time we approached with a wave of acknowledgement. The next morning we were greeted at breakfast as our room number was checked off and cheerfully escorted into the dining area. When it was time to check out we left it to the last possible minute and expected bedlam at the front desk thinking everyone would do the same but it was remarkably serene. Our server was more than happy to store our bags while we explored the Viaduct area before hitting the road. When I asked if it would be OK to leave our car in the car park for a little longer not only was that request handled with ease but our server arranged to have all our bags loaded as well! Nothing was ever too much trouble for the intuitive staff and we felt like very special guests.
Facilities
One of the great things about staying in a hotel is that you can enjoy a host of facilities you simply don’t have access to at home and CityLife Auckland has a long list to delight even the most jaded of travellers. Firstly, and most importantly, wi-fi is free and efficient. If you have read any of my previous hotel reviews, you will know that paying for wi-fi or having an unreliable connection is one of my biggest gripes. Guests visiting for work will appreciate the business centre and the dry cleaning will have you looking your best. A dedicated Concierge is on hand to assist guests with their every request, currency exchange is available and babysitting can be organised. Free newspapers are delivered to your room on request during the week and are available at reception on the weekend. As you would expect from a hotel of this calibre, room service is available 24 hours a day. For those wanting to swim laps, the generous indoor heated pool means you can indulge even in the depths of winter.
If the weather is dreary (it is Auckland after all!) the fully equipped gym means you can still get your run in so there are no excuses!
For the not so active types (me!) why not stop by Zest Bar for a nightcap before you slip under the covers. The bar is well stocked, the seating is comfy and it’s open from 10am until 11pm daily.
Breakfast @ CityLife Auckland
I am not a morning person. It takes me a while to start firing on all cylinders and I often skip breakfast which probably doesn’t help my cause. They say breakfast is the most important meal of the day and I was determined to start my first day in Auckland on the right foot with a fabulous breakfast from Zest Restaurant. We chose a table near the window with a view of bustling Queen St. Once settled, I did a complete lap of the extensive buffet so I could plan my epic breakfast. I loaded my first plate with bacon, sausage and a hash brown from the hot buffet plus some ciabatta toast and a feta and spinach muffin from the bakery. Initially I was disappointed not to find beef sausages but the chicken was a surprisingly nice change. The muffin was divine and I had to stop myself grabbing another so that I could save room for what was to come. I love gourmet bread and my lightly toasted ciabatta really satisfied but The Hubs would have preferred some plain white sliced to load his moist, fluffy scrambled eggs on. What can I say, he is a man of simple tastes 🙂 Of course if scrambled is not your style, you can have your eggs cooked to order any way you like.
For my next plate I decided to hit the cereal bar. While most of your favourites are on offer I couldn’t go past the ‘make your own muesli’ buffet. I added banana chips, raisins, almonds, apricots, sunflower seeds, and lashings of toasted coconut. I eased my guilt by selecting low-fat milk. Every little bit counts right? I wish I had a cereal station like this at home! If you don’t have the patience to do it yourself just grab one of those cute little shots (with an injectable!) where the hard work has been done for you.
I was definitely hitting my limit by this stage but I couldn’t resist one last plate and the perfect way to finish was with some healthy fresh fruit. While the selection was not extensive, the chef must have been on my wavelength because all my favourites were there. Add yoghurt from the chilled bar (above) to make it just a little bit fancy 🙂
Don’t forget to stop by the juice bar to sort out your thirst and coffee lovers have a dedicated station to get their fix. Breakfast is served from 6.30am – 10am during the week and an hour longer on weekends and public holidays so you can enjoy a sleep in. Why not have a late breakfast, skip lunch and come back for Zest’s early bird dinner special between 5pm – 7pm daily where you can enjoy two courses for only $35. Make mine the beef fillet with bearnaise sauce thanks!
Nearby
Location is everything and CityLife Auckland commands a prime position in the heart of the CBD. Step onto Queen St and you’ll find yourself in the centre of the shopping district. Aussie’s will immediately be hit with names they know and love such as Portmans, Supre, Typo, Cotton On Body, Jeans West, Cue, Quicksilver and Country Road. International brands such as Sunglass Hut, Lush (why not pick up a bomb to use in the fabulous tub), Foot Locker and Kathmandu are also close by. Grab a tourist SIM from nearby Vodafone, it’s the best $25 you will spent in NZ. If your tastes are a little more high-end, head towards the harbour and you will find Prada, Coach, Gucci and Dior all clustered together. Exit on Durham St West for the Midtown Mini Supermarket which is perfect for last minute items. If you want to fully stock your fabulous kitchen, Countdown supermarket on Victoria Street is a better option and only a few minutes walk. Continue up Victoria St and you can’t miss the Auckland Skytower which also looks suspiciously similar to the one at home. If you are so inclined the casino is directly behind it. While you are there fill up on authentic Turkish food from Cafe Midnight Express. We loved the kofte!
Venture left a few short blocks and you will hit the water. The Viaduct is a fabulous place to wander aimlessly and the countless eateries will appeal to all palettes. The area is carefully planned and the kids will love the parks and paddling pool. Walk right down to the end for views of the bridge and take a love lock to attach to the wall.
The Final Word
CityLife Auckland delighted us at every opportunity. The apartments were spacious, comfortable and spotlessly clean and the facilities exceptional, particularly breakfast at Zest. Despite how much I travel I often struggle to sleep well away from my own bed but I slept like a baby at CityLife. I’ve stayed in lots of hotels in my time and it’s been a long time since I have been so impressed with the service. CityLife seem to have thought of absolutely everything to make sure their guests have a memorable stay and I would not hesitate to return. With all the comforts of home but so much more, CityLife Auckland should be at the very top of your list when considering you accommodation options in Auckland. Rooms currently start at $219 a night. If you are heading to NZ for the first time make sure you check out my New Zealand Essentials post for everything you need to know before you go.
Would you consider staying at CityLife Auckland when you are next in the City Of Sails? Let me know your thoughts in the comments below.
Until Next Time …
Disclaimer: We stayed at CityLife Auckland as guests during our trip to New Zealand. As always, all opinions are my own.
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Isabel says
This hotel looks pretty modern and posh. And oh my, the views!! Wish I knew about this during my trip back in May last year. You’re pretty lucky to have such lovely weather!
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
It really was a great place to stay Isabel ?
Rashmi and Chalukya says
We always find apartments very feasible to stay as we travel as a family. And the apartments with well-equipped kitchens are great for some quick snacks or homemade food for the kids. Loved this hotel for it combines the luxury and comfortable for ‘feel at home’ with all those awesome amenities like pool and gym. The breakfast looks scrumptious and its proximity to the harbor is a perk.
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
CityLife Auckland is the perfect place to stay in Auckland for families Rashmi. I loved the breakfast!
Jean says
Oh looks like a great place to stay. I like that they’ve taken time to research sleep issues for fguests. It’s an issue for me when travelling! Dodgy curtains and thin walls. Maybe one day we’ll make it to Auckland!
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
I can’t believe it’s only my second time to Auckland as it so easily accessible! Reminds me of Sydney in so many ways but different at the same time.
Gokul Raj says
That place is really luxurious. Loved the indoor pool and the food looks really delicious. The place does have a nice ambiance.
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
We didn’t use the pool ourselves but it was nice to have the option. Everything about CityLife Auckland suited us perfectly and I would have no hesitation in returned when I am next in Auckland.
Ticker Eats The World says
My own hometown is going through a growth spurt as you call it so I can imagine the state of Auckland. City hotels are often so underrated and I hope this helps to break the myth. Another change in the industry is apartment hotels and I think I prefer them as they allow a little more space while keeping all the positive aspects of a “hotel”.
Loved your post that goes into all the details and doesn’t just rely on photos. Sometimes the simplest of acknowledgement from the staff – like remembering you so you didn’t have to use the key to open the doors at night – makes a lot of difference and I know for me makes a stay all the more special.
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
The staff were sensational. I couldn’t fault them in any way and I am pretty hard to impress. After the infamous phone incident (which The Hubs is still teasing me about) they couldn’t have been more helpful and yes it is nice to be remembered.
neha says
This seems just the right place to feel at home away from home. The room and washroom are both so spacious. The bed comfortable and the food seems so delicious. And given that there are 7 types of rooms to choose from, I would be spoilt by choices.
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
I like the fact they had so many room choice Neha. They cater to everyone from solo business travellers to families which is nice.
La Vida Viva Travel | Amanda says
Any place that takes sleep seriously AND has an extremely comfortable bed gets my vote for sure. Definitely spacious just for the two of you. The breakfast looks like awesome value too. Sounds like the perfect place to stay in Auckland!!
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
Absolutely! I’m not even a big breakfast person but they seriously converted me!
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
It really was. Location was superb and we were literally steps away from all the action!
Punita Malhotra says
My two bare necessities while selecting a hotel are: fabulous bed and fabulous breakfast. This one covers both so well. The red pillow..love it.
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
Totally agree Punita. I struggle to sleep well away from home sometimes but I had no issues at all at Citylife and breakfast … Just yum!
Mel I TravelingMel says
I would definitely consider staying at CityLife Auckland. I love that they give back to their communities, while looking good! The rooms look lovely and the food so scrumptious. And getting a good night’s sleep is so essential anytime, but especially when traveling so you don’t miss out on all the fun the next day. The location sounds ideal for that fun!
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
It really was sensational Mel and I also loved their community programs. I would love to go back soon.
Sophie Nadeau says
Okay! I absolutely love the decor of that hotel lounge: soooo stylish. Also, all of that food looks wonderfully delicious. This is definitely somewhere I’d love to stay!
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
It really was great Sophie. Make sure you check in out when you are next in Auckland ?
Jean says
OH Auckland you are so tempting. I’ve never been tempted to visit her until now. I’m usually a Sth Island kinda girl
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
I need to go back to the Sth Island. I have only just scratched the surface ?
Anna Marcus says
The breakfast menu is superb, great place to be
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
I know! I had to restrain myself lol
rosie says
The hotel looks lovely – I wouldn’t want to leave
Life is just Rosie
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Sydney Fashion Hunter says
I’m hearing you Rosie. I wish we had more than one night!
Shem says
You had me at ‘pillow menu’! It is so easy to overlook something like our sleeping environment when booking hotels. Plenty of times I’ve thought/said ‘Why spend so much? We’re JUST sleeping here” but it’s vital to our well-being while on the go! Great post and beautiful photos!
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
I’ve said the same at times Shem but I’m generally disappointed if I try to skimp. CityLife Auckland is great value for a CBD hotel. There is no way I could get the same quality in Sydney for the price!
Joanna says
I think that the best thing about a hotel should be the bed and it looks like Citylife Auckland has got that as a high priority. I love when the mattress is perfect for your back and when you get a pillow menu, to order the pillow that fits your needs best.
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
Totally agree Joanna. It’s easy to overlook that when selecting a hotel and it’s not until you have to sleep there that you realise the value!
Ashley Smith says
This place looks great! I love the juice bar… and the pillow menu? That’s so incredible and unique–I’ve never seen that ANYWHERE. I’m definitely particular about my pillows. Great, informative post!
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
I have seen a few pillow menus but it is quite rare and I’m always thrilled when a hotel offers one. It makes such a big difference how you sleep!
Gareth says
As ever, a very comprehensive and readable review. And while the excellent facilities and rooms are an important part of choosing a hotel, for me, the most important thing is location and clearly the Citylife hotel is well situation for day trips and so forth. That being said, the breakfast looks like a worthy enough reason by itself!
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
I agree. I always look at the ‘map view’ when choosing a hotel. I live being able to walk to everything.
Gina says
I would definitely consider staying here if I ever go to Auckland. My favorite part was that the provided chocolates on your pillow and they have the sleep science down to a tee! I really liked the atmosphere to Zest Bar and the chairs look comfy and spacious to provide you with an awesome experience!
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
Everything at CityLife Auckland was great Gina. I honestly can’t say enough about them!
Indrani says
This one seems complete in several ways! Beautiful mood enhancing environs – I loved that.
And I liked it more because it is close to several tourist destinations.
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
It’s right in the heart of everything Indrani!
Flo @ Yoga, Wine & Travel says
I am dying to visit New Zealand and will definitely be bookmarking this for a future trip. The amenities, service, rooms, facilities all look spectacular and I love that they provide Manuka Spa toiletries. It’s always great to stay in a place that supports the local community and farmers. Thanks for sharing!
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
Agree Flo. HIE has a great corporate responsibility program. I hope you get to NZ soon ?
Vyjay says
The hotel comes across as a very elegant and comfortable hotel. The ambience is cool and looks like a modern and contemporary hotel with all amenities. I think it would be a great base to explore Auckland from.
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
It was the perfect base Vyjay ?
Megan says
I love that it has the feel of a boutique hotel but with the amenities you need if you’re staying somewhere longer. That view isn’t too bad either. I also agree with others that the pillow menu is a great idea. I actually try and travel with my own pillow as much as I can so I can sleep better.
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
The Hubs takes his pillow a lot where feasible because he is so fussy but I won’t let me take them overseas lol. He had no complaints at CityLife which is seriously saying something as he always has complaints about the pillows lol
Janine Good says
What a great hotel! I love the room you stayed in. I think I would struggle getting into the tub as well. It is a good tip to add. The breakfast bar looks amazing. The cereal bar and fruit is totally up my alley! I don’t have many eggs so perhaps having a serving here would be a treat! I love the bed. It looks great. I like firm mattresses. I hope to get to Auckland and now know where to stay!
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
The room was superb Janine. I actually can’t eat eggs at all. A few years ago I developed an intolerance and I have to give them a wide berth these days. The Hubs loves them though and he said his scrambled were perfect!
Iza Abao, Two Monkeys Travel Group Writer says
I just pinned this! = ) I love your article – very detailed. I am also eager to check out the miniature bath/shower products when I stay at the hotels. I am impressed that this hotel has facial cleanser, make-up remover & exfoliating body scrub. They definitely thought about the regimen of women before going to bed. I also like that they have a good security.
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
Exactly! I usually bring my own products but it’s great if you are caught out! So thoughtful!
Crazy Dutch Abroad says
Wow, this place is so beautiful! For sure I am checking the bathroom for all the amenities first, you are not the only one! This hotel offers a real ‘warm welcome’ feeling and I would love to try that breakfast!
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
Glad I am not the only one ? We felt extremely welcome and the staff were all brilliant!
Gemma says
This looks like a lovely place to stay. I love that they had cleanser and exfoliators with the mini products – quite the treat.
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
I know! They really have thought of everything!
Ticker Eats The World says
Thanks for the info. Although I haven’t been to NZ, my parents have done two campervan trips through both the North and South Islands. However, when I travel I think it’ll be via car so the hotel info is good to know. Cheers
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
Campers are great and very popular in NZ but I prefer the extra room and comfort of a hotel. CityLife is a great option for anyone visiting Auckland.
neha says
Quiet a luxurious retreat. I would love to pamper myself here
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
I hope you get to visit soon Neha ?
chanelle says
It looks luxurious! Perfect for a girls getaway! I also struggle to sleep away from home so I really appreciate it when I get a good nights rest while traveling. I love love love the make your own muesli !
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
Exactly what I was thinking Chanelle. When I travel with my girls we always shop up a storm and CityLife is in the perfect location ?
WanguionTravel says
As a tour consultant from Kenya, I love visiting hotel properties.Always keen on how the rooms are. I absolutely love those spacious rooms.
Thank you for the virtual tour of this beautiful hotel
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
You are very welcome! CityLife service blew me away and I would return in a heart beat!
Mel l TravelingMel says
CityLife Aukland looks amazing! A pillow menu? That’s one of my pet peeves at a hotel — an uncomfortable pillow. I love that they take the whole sleep thing so seriously, because that’s really what you want from a great hotel; a good night’s rest. And a smoothie, those look pretty yummy, too.
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
The Hubs is seriously the fussiest person on the planet for pillows! He gets migraines if they are not ‘perfect’ so if he is happy they must be doing something right! I didn’t try the smoothies but they did look delish!