Hotel Review: Adina Heritage Christchurch

• April 21, 2025
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A distinguished heritage hotel offering business travellers the perfect balance of historic charm, modern comfort, and unbeatable city-centre convenience.

Located in prime position beside Cathedral Square, Adina Heritage Christchurch offers unmatched convenience for business travellers. Smack in the middle of Christchurch CBD, the historic hotel is at a short distance from major attractions like Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre, Victoria Square, Riverside Market, and the Avon River, while nearby transport links make it simple to explore further afield. For corporate events, conferences, or simply a productive working visit to the city, the hotel’s central location proves invaluable.

Standing tall opposite the famous Cathedral Square, the building was built in 1913 and designed in the Italian High Renaissance Palazzo style. It certainly is one of Christchurch’s proudest historic landmarks. The grand Ōamaru stone façade and richly carpeted interiors deliver a feeling of timeless sophistication. Guests are immediately immersed in a setting that feels both regal and inviting, a rare quality for a city-centre hotel catering to business and leisure visitors alike. The iconic staircases, reminiscent of a classic film set, add an undeniable sense of theatre to your stay.

True to Adina’s signature hospitality, I was personally welcomed at reception set not in a typical lobby, but in a grand ballroom of its own. With soaring windows draped in heavy velvet curtains and an air of old-world opulence, the space felt like stepping back in time. It was as if the clock had been wound back to a bygone era, offering a glimpse into the grandeur and heritage that once defined Cathedral Square.

Adina Heritage Christchurch features a boutique collection of expansive suites configured as one, two, or three-bedroom. Perfectly suited for business travellers on extended stays, the suites offer fully equipped kitchens, spacious dining areas, comfortable lounge spaces, and laundry facilities – a true home away from home. The full in-room kitchens enable guests to dine privately when needed, ideal for busy schedules or longer business stays. Although there is no dedicated business centre, the spacious layout of the suites is highly conducive to conducting video calls, catching up on work, or hosting informal meetings in a private, polished setting.

Suite 16, was my suite for stay and was a standout with its cathedral-facing windows, generous proportions, and plush furnishings. The three-bedroom suite featured grand living and dining area with a fully-functional kitchen. The spilt level suite had one bedroom downstairs and two on the upper level. The master bedroom featured all the modern amenities, a large television and an ensuite. Thoughtful touches such as premium linens, an abundance of pillows, and little luxuries like Whittaker’s chocolates make settling in easy after a long day of meetings or travel.

Complimentary High-Speed Wi-Fi offers seamless connectivity throughout the hotel supports remote working and virtual meetings. A fitness centre that exceeds typical hotel standards, along with a heated lap pool, provides busy executives an opportunity to maintain fitness routines. Valet Parking is also available for guests seeking hassle-free arrival and departure, though standard city parking options are nearby too.

While each suite allows for self-catering, Christchurch’s vibrant culinary scene lies just steps away. For those wishing to stay in, the hotel’s on-site restaurant, O.G.B, is a local institution. Styled as a speakeasy and staffed by characterful, period-dressed servers, O.G.B offers a buzzy, informal setting perfect for post-conference drinks, casual networking, or a relaxed solo dinner. Open late and consistently voted the city’s Best Bar, it adds a dynamic dimension to the stay.

The staff embody the true spirit of the Adina family — professional, attentive, and genuinely personable. Always ready to assist, they go above and beyond to ensure every guest enjoys a memorable stay. Throughout the hotel, the atmosphere strikes a perfect balance between old-world grandeur and heartfelt hospitality, making it an ideal choice for corporate travellers seeking a more authentic and character-rich experience than a standard chain hotel can offer.

The hotel’s location opens Christchurch’s best offerings within a short stroll. Whether it’s a morning walk through the Botanical Gardens, a heritage tram ride past the city’s rebuilding landmarks, or browsing local artisan stalls at Riverside Market, guests have an array of enriching experiences on their doorstep perfect for mixing business with leisure.

Adina Heritage Christchurch stands apart from standard city hotels, blending historic grandeur with contemporary comfort and business ready amenities. For corporate travellers seeking a stay that offers character, convenience, and carefully considered details, it excels at every turn. While accessibility constraints may impact a small number of guests, the overall experience is exceptional offering a polished, welcoming, and inspiring base for work, relaxation, and discovery in the heart of Christchurch.

My rating: 4 Stars