MINIVIEW: inside the latest design-led boutique hotels in New Zealand

A pink room full with maximalist design
730 565 Hamish Kilburn
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MINIVIEW: inside the latest design-led boutique hotels in New Zealand

The maximalist interiors sheltered inside Naumi Hotel’s three recent arrivals have lifted our editorial spirits and added some serious style to boutique hotels in New Zealand. Editor Hamish Kilburn speaks to the brand’s CEO to understand more…

A pink room full with maximalist design

Naumi Hotels recently announced the openings of three new boutique hotels in New Zealand. The Central by Naumi Hotels and The Dairy Private Hotel by Naumi, both in Queenstown, and Naumi Studio Hotel Wellington, now join Naumi Hotels’ first New Zealand property, Naumi Auckland which opened in 2018.

The Central and The Dairy look set to raise the bar when it comes to design-led, boutique accommodation both locally in Queenstown and in New Zealand as a whole, whilst Naumi Studio Hotel represents the creative reimagining of an iconic historic listed property in Wellington, full to the brim with the work of local artists and designers.

“We say to expect the unexpected with all of our hotel designs and this most definitely applies to our three new openings in Queenstown and Wellington,” said Gaurang Jhunjhnuwala, CEO, Naumi Australia and New Zealand. “ We’ve taken three very different buildings and crafted a completely new hospitality offering for both iconic cities. Each property has its own story and its distinct vibe, with Naumi’s signature playful approach woven throughout. We are currently treating New Zealanders to escapist staycation breaks and look forward to New Zealand’s borders being safely open to international travel once again so we can welcome our guests from around the world.”

The Central by Naumi Hotels, Queenstown – opened November 20, 2020

A surreal sanctuary in Queenstown’s city centre, The Central is the second Naumi hotel to open in New Zealand’s adventure-capital. Here a creative, cool vibe meets a sense of childlike curiosity, with a bold design inspired by magic, nature and vivid colour.

Naumi Hotels has transformed the building, the site of a previous hotel, into a 15 key whimsical wonderland, unlike any other property in Queenstown. Naumi’s creative approach showcases innovative and unexpected design details, playing with exaggerated scales and disproportionate sensory details in the public areas to create a memorable experience for guests. A lounge with roaring fire and comfy seating forms the heart ofthe hotel. It’s here complimentary award-winning New Zealand wines are served every evening between 5-6pm, and complimentary snacks and so drinks throughout the day. Adjacent to the lounge is a garden area, perfect for an alfresco breakfast.

Expect to find the same creative use of light, shape and colour in the three bedroom types, “Habitat”, “Oasis” and the “Junior Suite”. All feature specially commissioned headboards by local artist Deborah Moss, in a cacophony of colour and light. Habitat rooms have an earthy hue and private courtyard, whilst Oasis rooms are amongst the largest in Queenstown, sitting amongst the treetops, with most enjoying a private balcony. The Junior Suite features a bold, viridescent colour palette and spacious accommodation.

A luxury bar

Image credit: Naumi Hotels

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Main image credit: Naumi Hotels

Hamish Kilburn / 25.01.2021

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