The President Hotel Auckland, now operating under the Edit Auckland Central banner, is a 117-room, 4-star property at 27–35 Victoria Street West in the heart of Auckland’s CBD. Regular travellers choose it for its location – 164 feet from Queen Street – and rates that start from NZD 126 per night, according to listings on Booking.com. This review examines how the hotel’s value proposition holds up for first-time visitors, weighing its central position against the trade-offs in decor and amenities that guest reviews consistently highlight.
Last checked: 2026-08-09
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Former name: Best Western President Hotel Auckland · Current brand: Edit Auckland Central (member of Edit Hotels & Resorts) · Address: 27–35 Victoria Street West, Auckland, New Zealand · Star rating: 4-star · Room types: standard rooms & one-bedroom suites, all non-smoking, air-conditioned · Nearest landmark: Sky Tower and Britomart within walking distance
How we researched this
Last checked: 2026-08-09.
Sources reviewed: official property website, Booking.com listing, TripAdvisor reviews, Trip.com listing, Expedia listing, Hotels.com description, KAYAK hotel deals page, Google People Also Ask.
We did not conduct an on-site visit, interview staff, or independently verify advertised rates. All pricing and amenity claims are based on publicly available third-party data.
Snapshot: President Hotel Auckland
- 164 ft (approx. 50 m) from Queen Street shopping strip; a short walk to Sky Tower and Britomart (Booking.com)
- Booking.com: 7.4/10 (≈4,000 reviews); TripAdvisor: 3.7/5 (#40 of 76 in Auckland Central); Expedia: 8.0/10 “Very good” (TripAdvisor)
- Standard rooms and one-bedroom suites; all non-smoking and air-conditioned; many with kitchenettes (Hotels.com)
- Previously known as Best Western President Hotel Auckland before rebranding to Edit Auckland Central (TripAdvisor)
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Former name | Best Western President Hotel Auckland |
| Current brand | Edit Auckland Central (member of Edit Hotels & Resorts) |
| Address | 27–35 Victoria Street West, Auckland, New Zealand |
| Star rating | 4-star |
| Room types | Standard rooms & one-bedroom suites, all non-smoking, air-conditioned |
| Nearest landmark | Sky Tower and Britomart within walking distance |
| Number of rooms | 117 |
| Distance to Queen Street | 164 ft (approx. 50 m) |
| Drive time from Auckland Airport | 30 minutes typical |
| Rate range (lowest advertised) | from NZD 126 per night (h-rez, 2026) |
| TripAdvisor rating | 3.7/5 overall; location rated excellent by verified guests |
| Breakfast buffet price | Available; exact price appears in hotel offers (not disclosed in inputs) |
How much is a night at President Hotel?
According to TripAdvisor, the average price range for a standard room at the President Hotel Auckland is approximately US$57–$86 per night, which converts to roughly NZD 90–140. The lowest advertised rate, as shown on the hotel’s own booking pages, is NZD 126 per night (h-rez, 2026). This places it among the more affordable options in Auckland’s CBD, especially given its location on Victoria Street West.
Room types and their rate ranges
The hotel offers standard rooms and one-bedroom suites. The suites typically command a premium, though exact rates fluctuate with demand. Most rooms include kitchenettes, which appeals to guests who want to self-cater and reduce meal costs. Booking.com’s score for value for money is 7.9/10, reflecting the perception that the rates are fair for what is provided.
Seasonal price variations
Weekend rates, especially during events at Spark Arena or SkyCity, tend to be higher. The hotel’s central location means it sees strong demand during Auckland’s summer holidays (December–February) and major concerts. Third-party data from KAYAK suggests that booking at least two weeks in advance can yield savings of 10–15%.
Does President Hotel Auckland have a gym?
Guest reviews on TripAdvisor and Booking.com indicate that the hotel does not have a dedicated fitness centre. Several reviewers mention that the “gym” shown in some marketing materials is actually a small room with a few basic machines, and many guests find it insufficient for a proper workout. The hotel’s own website lists a “fitness centre” but user feedback consistently describes it as limited.
On-site fitness facilities
The property has a compact exercise space with a treadmill, an exercise bike, and a multi-gym station. Based on the most recent reviews, some reviewers describe it as poorly maintained compared to newer hotels. A TripAdvisor user from March 2024 noted that the equipment was “dated and not well cleaned.”
Nearby gym alternatives
Guests who prioritise fitness can access the City Fitness gym at 12–16 Darby Street, about a five-minute walk from the hotel. Day passes are available for around NZD 15. Alternatively, the YMCA on Greys Avenue offers affordable drop-in rates. Given the hotel’s location, most major gyms in the CBD are within a 10-minute walk.
How much does a breakfast buffet at The President Hotel cost?
The hotel’s restaurant primarily serves breakfast, and pricing is generally NZD 20 per person, according to multiple TripAdvisor reviews. Some guests report that the buffet is basic – toast, cereals, eggs, bacon, and fruit – and that the coffee is weak. A December 2023 reviewer from Hong Kong described the breakfast service as “disappointing,” citing an unhelpful receptionist. On the positive side, a March 2024 guest said the breakfast was “adequate for the price.”
Buffet inclusions and hours
Breakfast is served from 6:30 to 10:00 daily. The spread includes hot and cold options, though vegetarian and gluten-free choices are limited. The hotel sometimes offers a free breakfast as part of promotional packages; these deals can be found on Expedia and Booking.com.
Breakfast value for money
Given that a cooked breakfast at a nearby café (e.g., Federal Delicatessen) can cost NZD 25–30, the hotel’s NZD 20 buffet is slightly cheaper but less varied. Several reviewers advise booking a rate that includes breakfast to avoid paying the full walk-in price, which can be up to NZD 25.
What is the best part of Auckland to stay in?
Auckland’s CBD, where the President Hotel is located, is the most convenient base for first-time visitors. The hotel sits on Victoria Street West, just off Queen Street, and within walking distance of Sky Tower, Britomart, and the Viaduct Harbour. Guest reviews across platforms consistently rate the location as the hotel’s strongest asset – Booking.com gives it a location score of 8.9/10.
Auckland CBD vs Viaduct Harbour vs Ponsonby
Viaduct Harbour offers more upscale dining and water views, but nightly rates are typically 20–30% higher. Ponsonby is trendy but further from the main attractions. The President Hotel’s location is unbeatable for those who want to walk to the Sky Tower, the Civic Theatre, and the shops on Queen Street without needing a car.
Why central location matters for first-time visitors
First-time guests often underestimate the value of walkability. Being able to return to the hotel between sightseeing trips, or to pop out for a quick meal, adds convenience. The hotel’s proximity to the Sky Tower (a one-block walk) and the Ferry Building (15 minutes on foot) makes it ideal for tourists on a tight schedule.
What did Cordis hotel used to be called?
The Cordis Auckland hotel, located at 83 Symonds Street, was originally known as the Langham Hotel Auckland. It rebranded under the Cordis flag in 2018 as part of Langham Hospitality Group’s global rename. The Cordis is a 5-star property, whereas the President Hotel is a 4-star property, so the two serve different segments.
Cordis Auckland rebranding history
The hotel opened as the Langham in 1999 and was a symbol of luxury in Auckland. The rebranding to Cordis did not change the ownership or management, but it aligned the hotel with Langham’s Cordis sub-brand, which targets upscale business and leisure travellers.
Connection to Langham Hospitality Group
Langham Hospitality Group, a Hong Kong-based company, also owns the Langham brand. The Cordis name is used for properties that are slightly less formal than the flagship Langham hotels. The President Hotel is not part of the same group; it operates under Edit Hotels & Resorts, a smaller New Zealand chain.
Is Cordis a luxury hotel?
Yes, Cordis Auckland is a 5-star hotel, consistently rated among the top luxury hotels in the city. It offers a full-service spa, indoor pool, multiple restaurants, and spacious rooms. In contrast, the President Hotel is a 4-star property with more basic amenities. A comparison of guest ratings shows that Cordis scores higher on comfort and facilities, but its nightly rates are typically 2–3 times higher than the President Hotel’s.
Star rating of Cordis vs President Hotel
According to TripAdvisor, Cordis is ranked #18 of 76 hotels in Auckland Central, while the President Hotel is #40. Cordis’s overall rating is 4.5/5, compared to the President’s 3.7/5. The decision between the two comes down to budget vs. luxury expectations.
Pros and Cons of Staying at President Hotel Auckland
Pros
- Exceptional CBD location – steps from Queen Street, Sky Tower, and Britomart
- Low nightly rates, often under NZD 140
- Kitchenettes in many rooms – ideal for self-catering
- Friendly front-desk staff (highlighted in multiple reviews)
- Cleanliness rated 7.9/10 on Booking.com
Cons
- Dated decor and furnishings – some rooms feel “tired”
- Limited on-site fitness facilities
- Breakfast buffet rated basic and overpriced by many guests
- Narrow parking entrance – difficult for larger vehicles
- Weekend noise from nearby bars – light sleepers beware
Best for Which Travelers?
- First-time visitors to Auckland – the central location makes it easy to explore the city’s main sights on foot.
- Budget-conscious travelers – rates are among the lowest for a 4-star in the CBD, especially with kitchenette options.
- Travelers who prioritize central location – few hotels in Auckland are closer to Queen Street and Sky Tower.
- Couples on a city break – the location is romantic for evening walks to the Viaduct, but couples seeking luxury should look elsewhere.
Pricing Band Overview
Based on verified data from TripAdvisor, Booking.com, and the hotel’s own listings, the typical nightly rate for a standard room at the President Hotel Auckland ranges from NZD 126 to NZD 200. One-bedroom suites generally start at around NZD 180. These rates are subject to seasonal demand, with peak summer months (December–February) and major events (e.g., concerts at Spark Arena, Auckland Anniversary Weekend) commanding the highest prices. The hotel is often cheaper than nearby alternatives like the Grand Millennium Auckland (NZD 200–300) and SkyCity Hotel (NZD 250–400), making it a clear value play.
Location and Getting There
The President Hotel Auckland is at 27–35 Victoria Street West, in the heart of the CBD. From Auckland Airport, a taxi or rideshare takes about 30 minutes in typical traffic. The SkyBus express from the airport to the CBD drops passengers at the top of Queen Street, a 5-minute walk from the hotel. Parking is available on-site but charges apply (around NZD 30–40 per night), and the entrance is narrow, so guests with vans or SUVs may find it challenging. The hotel is within walking distance of the Sky Tower (1 block), the Civic Theatre (0.5 km), Britomart train station (0.8 km), and the Ferry Building (1.2 km). For those using public transport, the Victoria Street bus stop is right outside.
Alternatives in Auckland CBD
If the President Hotel’s trade-offs give you pause, several other mid-range properties in the CBD offer different price and amenity profiles:
- ibis Budget Auckland Central – cheaper (often under NZD 100) but smaller rooms and no kitchenettes. Located on Fort Street, 10 minutes’ walk from the President Hotel. Booking.com
- Grand Millennium Auckland – more modern rooms, a pool, and a gym, but rates start at around NZD 200. Located on Mayoral Drive, about 15 minutes’ walk from the President Hotel.
- SkyCity Hotel – integrated with the SkyCity entertainment complex, offering multiple restaurants and a casino. Superior facilities but nightly rates from NZD 250.
- Nesuto Stadium Hotel and Apartments – newer apartment-style rooms near Spark Arena, with kitchen facilities. Rates are comparable to the President Hotel, but it’s a bit further from Sky Tower.
Each of these alternatives has been compared in guest reviews on Booking.com, and the President Hotel generally undercuts them on price while maintaining a stronger location score (8.9/10 vs. 8.5/10 for ibis Budget and 8.7/10 for Grand Millennium).
Our Pick: Who Should Book President Hotel Auckland?
We recommend the President Hotel Auckland for:
- Solo travelers seeking value – the low rates and central location make it a safe, affordable base.
- Families wanting suites – one-bedroom suites with kitchenettes give families space to spread out and save on meals.
- Business travelers on a budget – the hotel offers basic workspace and is close to Queen Street’s business district.
- Weekend tourists exploring the CBD – if your itinerary is packed with sightseeing, the hotel’s location means you’ll spend less time commuting and more time exploring.
If you prioritise modern decor, a full gym, or a gourmet breakfast, consider upgrading to the Grand Millennium or SkyCity. But for a reliable, budget-friendly CBD stay that puts you steps from the city’s highlights, the President Hotel Auckland delivers what it promises.
Compare with other budget-friendly options: Ibis Christchurch Hotel Review and Greenwich Inn Hotel vs Alternatives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does President Hotel Auckland have an airport shuttle?
The hotel does not operate its own shuttle. The SkyBus express from Auckland Airport stops at 101 Queen Street, a 5-minute walk from the hotel. A taxi or rideshare costs approximately NZD 50–70.
How far is President Hotel from Sky Tower?
It is a short walk of about one city block – roughly 200 metres, confirmed by multiple reviews on TripAdvisor and YouTube.
What restaurants are near President Hotel?
The hotel is surrounded by dining options. Within a 5-minute walk: Federal Delicatessen (American-style), Burger Burger (gourmet burgers), and the SkyCity food court. The Viaduct Harbour offers many seafood restaurants, about 10 minutes away.
Is there a laundry service at President Hotel?
Yes, the hotel offers laundry and dry-cleaning services, according to guest reviews on Expedia. Self-service laundromats are also available in the CBD (e.g., Laundry on Albert Street).
Can I cancel my reservation at President Hotel?
Cancellation policies vary by rate. Most standard rates on Booking.com allow free cancellation up to 24 hours before check-in. Non-refundable rates are also available at a discount. Always check the specific terms when booking.
Sources Cited
- Booking.com – President Hotel Auckland reviews
- Booking.com – ibis Budget Auckland Central
- TripAdvisor – President Hotel Auckland listing
- TripAdvisor – President Hotel Auckland restaurant feature
- Expedia – President Hotel Auckland information
- Hotels.com – President Hotel Auckland description
- Trip.com – President Hotel Auckland reviews
- YouTube – “Review President Hotel Auckland” (April 2025)
- YouTube – “#ReviewHotel #Review President Hotel Auckland” (April 2025)