Overview
Auckland's Karangahape Road has a new neighbour: Abstract, a chic accommodation offering bringing a New York loft-style feel to the central city. The hotel boasts 11 stories, 290 beds and multiple communal areas for Aucklanders to work and play — all at an affordable price.
The communal areas can all be found on the ground floor, starting with the Wintergarden — a space similar to Auckland Domain's Wintergarden, with a glass roof creating a bright open space and a fireplace for the winter months. Across from the Wintergarden, guests will find the gallery with walls adorned with a rotating display of local artists' works.
Also on the ground floor is the studio, which can be used as both a board room or a private dining room; as well as the library — another space for work or simply browsing Abstract's collection of books.
Additionally, the hotel has a gym and a restaurant open from 7am–10pm daily. And if the hustle and bustle of central Auckland all gets too much, guests can visit the hotel's luxury spa offering Thai massage and other therapeutic treatments.
There are four types of rooms for a guest to choose from: a sleeper studio, a deluxe room, a one bedroom apartment and a two bedroom apartment. Each room maximises space with minimal but high-end furnishings, allowing visitors to book a luxurious two bedroom without a hefty price tag (rates for the largest rooms start from $400 a night and include cooking facilities).
Guests who are lucky enough to score a room on the top levels of the hotel will be treated to views of Auckland's Domain, or if you're on the west side, the Waitakere Ranges.
Abstract is smack in the middle of some of Auckland's best culinary offerings, such as Cotto, and Coco's Cantina and just a short walk or Uber away from the Ponsonby strip.
Nigel McKenna is the developer of the hotel and said his team at Templeton Group wanted to appeal to the younger set of travellers.
"Our ambition with Abstract was to bring New York-style living to K' Rd with concepts that would appeal to visitors of all types, but with particular appeal to Gen Z," McKenna said. "Think Brooklyn – with its spectacular views, art, music, food, green spaces, neighbourhood feel and strong sense of community – and you have Abstract. It's a place for people to gather and connect, a place where the city meets soul."
Abstract can be found at 8 Upper Queen Street, Auckland. Bookings are now available and can be made using the hotel's website.