Combine impeccable service with an intimate ambiance that exudes classic elegance, and The George hotel in Christchurch is that perfect “home away from home”.
Coming from Singapore, we had a choice to fly into New Zealand via Singapore Airlines either via Auckland or Christchurch, and I decided to pick the latter as our gateway into the South Island of New Zealand.
I was also enticed by what I had read about Christchurch’s vibrant culture and wanted to explore the city that has undergone extensive urban transformation in recent years.
Mom and I wanted to stay in a centrally located hotel that was just right in the center of Christchurch, yet away from the main street. The George, with views overlooking picturesque Hagley Park, was described as one of New Zealand’s treasured luxury boutique hotel and my interest was piqued. And without a doubt, it was an amazing stay!
I am a little biased, mostly because there was an incident that happened (thanks to my carelessness), and what transpired really left a deep impression on me.
I would like to commend the housekeeping team at the hotel for finding the personal items that I had left behind as we headed toward Queenstown, and being super efficient in sending it back to me! The same evening after I had left the hotel, I received an email from the Front Office Host from The George alerting me about my missing items – even before I had realized I had forgotten to pack them!
This was only when I realised I had left a clothing item behind, along with my travel adaptor. In the same email, I was provided clear instructions on how I could retrieve my items from their housekeeping’s “lost property” inventory, and they requested a mailing address so that they could send the items to me via courier. Fast forward to three days later – when I arrived from Queenstown to Auckland (which was the forwarding address I had provided) the package from The George was already waiting for me.
Luxury is in the little details
I was trying to pick a description that would encapsulate my stay at The George – and that would be “Elevated Comfort”. It truly is in the details of how the design and amenities are all carefully curated to make guests feel comfortable. From a cute “George” bear in the lobby, to Canterbury bath salts for a Bath Soak to help guests relax,
I was also drawn to the lounge area on the ground floor of the hotel, which offered us peaceful respite from our exploration around the city.
The Park suites (54 sq m) were so comfortable with a separate living room and heating that we probably spent more time than we should have indoors. As we were travelling during winter, the warmth from the heating evoked such a welcoming effect when we stepped into the room, and that was really a special touch of comfort that just made our stay much more memorable. We also appreciated the spacious ensuite bathroom where there was a separate double shower and a large spa bath
The hotel also has seven Executive and thirty-five Premium Executive Rooms, both 27 sq m in size, and four junior suites (40 sq m)
The Residence at The George
I was able to explore the hotel a little, and the hotel manager shared that they have a separate building that is popular for private weddings and events but can also be booked by larger groups/families.
The Residence has the feel of a country lodge overlooking The George’s private hotel gardens, with access to full hotel services and the exclusivity of a 3-bedroom private villa.
Typically, groups would book out the entire villa which consists of two luxury suites and one studio apartment. On the ground floor are the kitchen, library, dining room, private outdoor garden, private dining room and an elegant lounge. However, it is possible to book the rooms separately. In fact, I found out that the villa is popular for private parties, especially birthday celebrations and corporate dinners!
Collection of New Zealand Artworks
The George has an impressive collection of artworks from New Zealand artists that reflect the distinctive style of the hotel. One can find the largest collection of Ralph Hotere, one of New Zealand’s most important artists whose visual work reflects events of the day, a visual ode of political events in the country.
Four bronze violins at The George are part of a sculptural set developed over 13 years by Stephen Gleeson. They represent a series of laments, with the instruments as a carriage for different stories and meanings.
Private tours of the hotel’s private art collection are available by arrangement or guests can wander the corridors at leisure to admire the artworks.
Dining at The George
Guests staying at the hotel will enjoy breakfast at 50 Bistro, which has also earned accolades as one of the best restaurants in Christchurch.
The hotel offers guests the option of a continental breakfast (buffet selection of fresh fruits, cereals, croissants, danish pastries, yogurts, compôtes & juices) or a full breakfast menu where one can add on an a-la-carte item.
The classic eggs benedict topped with Akaroa smoked salmon was amazing!
Kudos to the culinary team led by Executive Chef Chanaka Jayabahu for creating a menu that showcases contemporary New Zealand cuisine. Menus change throughout the year to reflect the mood and trends of each season. 50-Bistro spans three interconnected rooms and offers an intimate place to meet, a light-filled conservatory with a living wall for outdoor dining,
The conservatory in 50 Bistro is ideal for afternoon high tea from `12pm to 3 pm for bigger groups of up to 20 and is a great venue for bridal showers or birthday celebrations.
The George is a member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, and it embraces the ethos of luxury with comfort. It’s definitely where I will come back to the next time I’m in Christchurch.
Photo Credits: The George
