You may find it easier to leave behind your hometown than you will SO/ Auckland. At its address in Auckland's CBD, the boutique hotel is tall and striking with its violet lights and 16 storeys, serving as a beacon of hospitality and luxury on the city's glittering Waitemata Harbour.
The SO/ brand made its debut in 2011, favouring avant-garde design and attracting a creative community. With seven outposts in its repertoire, in cities like Berlin, Paris, Vienna, Bangkok, Costa del Sol, and as of 2019, Auckland, the hotel is a first choice for travellers seeking more than just a place to rest their head. Speaking for SO/ Auckland, the hotel's amenities, spa, bars and dining offering are considered, influenced just as much by international design as its unique locale.
It's where RUSSH sought refuge during New Zealand Fashion Week, which feels fitting given the luxury hotel chain's own fashion ties. You see, each SO/ site received creative consultation from fashion's most recognised designers; including the late Karl Lagerfeld, Christian Lacroix and Kenzō Takada. For the design of SO/ Auckland, architects collaborated with Benny Castles of fashion house World.
Inside, you'll find moody interiors flecked with gold – a deliberate nod to the history of the hotel, which was formerly home to New Zealand's gold reserve. Patrons will note how each of the hotel's 128 rooms, suites and two penthouses arrive with a complimentary non alcoholic minibar, advanced technologies for convenience and private balconies and separate lounge areas for selected suites.
In the mood for dinner or a nightcap? Simply refer to its lobby watering hole, Mixo Bar, or venture to the rooftop for a glass of champagne at HI-SO as the sun sets. For a meal to steady the flow of drinks, make a booking at Harbour Society for its constantly-evolving menu and remarkable harbour views. Meanwhile, Javalab Cafe promises buttery pastries and coffee in the style of your favourite Parisian cafe.
For more information or to book a room, head to the SO/ Auckland website.
