Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour
Stop-Over Hotel
I am taking you to Auckland this month. I got to know this multicultural city, which is located in the north of the North Island of New Zealand, during a two-day stopover. There are quite a few 5-star hotels there, but unfortunately no true luxury hotel for the stylish world traveler. Nevertheless, I can recommend the Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour because of its privileged waterfront location. www.sofitel-auckland.com
The entrance area looks very inviting. Unfortunately, the front desk staff is totally overwhelmed and does the job unprofessionally. Besides, I didn´t like the pool area. The rooms are okay, I would avoid the restaurants and eat at the Oyster & Chop, located just a 10-minute walk from Sofitel. The food there is excellent! www.oysterandchop.co.nz
On our return flight from Fiji to Dubai, we stayed at Naumi Hotel because of the proximity to the airport. www.naumihotels.com
The lobby, breakfast room and rooms are purpose built. However, the bathroom is so small that one person can barely move around. The cozy lounge in the entrance area invites you to linger.
Next time I have a layover in Auckland, I will try Novotel Auckland Airport hotel, because in contrast to Naumi, it is right by the terminal and you don’t need a cab.
Important Notes:
Getting there:
My favorite airline, the state-owned airline of the emirate of Dubai, Emirates, flies daily to Auckland from Dubai. www.emirates.com
Admittedly, the almost 18-hour long-haul flight scared me at first (14,215 kilometers / 8,833 miles), but the time on board flew by – thanks to the unique first-class suites, the exquisite food, the terrific bathroom with shower and the onboard lounge! The outbound flight departs Dubai at 10:05am and the return flight departs Auckland at 8:30pm. Both flights had barely been booked, so it was an almost private first class.
Weather:
The best time to visit Auckland is from December to March/April. However, you should keep in mind that from time to time violent hurricanes hit Auckland – this can already be the case from the end of March.
Have a nice stay in Auckland,
Your Amal.
