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Distinction Whangarei Hotel & Conference Centre

3.0 star property

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Photo gallery for Distinction Whangarei Hotel & Conference Centre

Front of property
Indoor pool
Property entrance
Interior entrance
Spa

Reviews

7.8 out of 10
Good

Popular amenities

  • Hot tub
  • Parking included
  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning

Explore the area

View in a map
9 Riverside Drive, Whangarei, 0112
  • Place, Town Basin Marina
    ‪2 min walk‬
  • Place, Hundertwasser Art Centre
    ‪3 min walk‬
  • Place, Whangarei Art Museum
    ‪3 min walk‬
  • Airport, Whangarei (WRE)
    ‪7 min drive‬

Room options

View all photos for Marina View King - Balcony

Marina View King - Balcony | In-room safe, desk, iron/ironing board, free WiFi

Marina View King - Balcony

7.8 out of 10
Good
(6 reviews)
  • Marina view
  • 334 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Junior Suite

Junior Suite | In-room safe, desk, iron/ironing board, free WiFi

Junior Suite

  • 484 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 Double Bed and 2 Twin Beds

View all photos for Junior Suite

In-room safe, desk, iron/ironing board, free WiFi

Junior Suite

  • Sleeps 2

View all photos for Superior Twin Room

Superior Twin Room | In-room safe, desk, iron/ironing board, free WiFi

Superior Twin Room

8.8 out of 10
Excellent
(19 reviews)
  • 237 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

View all photos for Superior King Room

A hotel room with a large bed, a TV mounted on the wall, a desk with a lamp, and a chair.

Superior King Room

9.2 out of 10
Wonderful
(17 reviews)
  • 237 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Marina View King - No Balcony

Marina View King - No Balcony | In-room safe, desk, iron/ironing board, free WiFi

Marina View King - No Balcony

8.4 out of 10
Very good
(5 reviews)
  • Marina view
  • 334 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Superior King Room

In-room safe, desk, iron/ironing board, free WiFi

Superior King Room

  • Sleeps 2

View all photos for Superior Twin Room

In-room safe, desk, iron/ironing board, free WiFi

Superior Twin Room

8.0 out of 10
Very good
(1 review)
  • Sleeps 3

View all photos for Marina View King Room No Balcony

In-room safe, desk, iron/ironing board, free WiFi

Marina View King Room No Balcony

  • Sleeps 2

View all photos for Marina View King Room With Balcony

In-room safe, desk, iron/ironing board, free WiFi

Marina View King Room With Balcony

  • Sleeps 2

About the neighborhood

Whangarei

Located in Riverside, Distinction Whangarei Hotel & Conference Centre is adjacent to Town Basin Marina and within a 10-minute stroll of Hundertwasser Art Centre. This 115-room, 3-star hotel welcomes guests with conveniences like an indoor pool, free in-room WiFi, and free self parking.

What's nearby

  • Town Basin Marina - 2 min walk - 0.1 miles
  • Hundertwasser Art Centre - 3 min walk - 0.2 miles
  • Whangarei Art Museum - 3 min walk - 0.2 miles
  • Claphams National Clock Museum - 3 min walk - 0.2 miles
  • Reyburn House - 5 min walk - 0.3 miles

Getting around

  • Whangarei (WRE) - 8 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Aqua Restaurant & Bar - ‬6 min walk
  • ‪The Butter Factory - ‬10 min walk
  • ‪Local Talent - ‬11 min walk
  • ‪Dickens Inn - ‬11 min walk
  • ‪Noodle Canteen - ‬13 min walk

About this property

Distinction Whangarei Hotel & Conference Centre

At Distinction Whangarei Hotel & Conference Centre, guests enjoy features like an indoor pool, a gym, and free WiFi in public areas. If you plan to drive, free parking is available. Front-desk staff can answer questions 24/7, and assist with tours or tickets, luggage storage, and dry cleaning/laundry. Additional amenities include a hot tub, meeting rooms, and free newspapers.
Guests can expect free WiFi and 32-inch LCD TVs with cable channels. Bathrooms have hair dryers and free toiletries. Other amenities include refrigerators, electric kettles, and free newspapers.
An indoor pool and a hot tub are on site. Other recreational amenities include a fitness center.

Children under 13 years old are not allowed in the swimming pool, fitness facility, or hot tub without adult supervision.

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Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Free self parking on site

Food and drink

  • Daily buffet breakfast available 7:00 AM to 9:30 AM for a fee: NZD 35 per person
  • A bar/lounge
  • A restaurant

Things to do

  • Billiards/pool table
  • Gym
  • Hot tub
  • Indoor pool

Family friendly

  • In-room refrigerator
  • Indoor pool
  • Laundry facilities

Conveniences

  • 24-hour front desk
  • Free newspapers in lobby
  • Laundry facilities
  • Luggage storage
  • Safe at front desk

Guest services

  • Concierge services
  • Dry cleaning/laundry service
  • Housekeeping (daily)
  • Tour and ticket assistance

Business services

  • Meeting rooms

Outdoors

  • Garden
  • On the waterfront

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • No elevator
  • Wheelchair accessible (may have limitations)

More

  • 2 floors
  • Banquet hall
  • Smoking not allowed

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries
  • Hair dryer
  • Shampoo
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Entertainment

  • 32-inch LCD TV with cable channels

Food and drink

  • 24-hour room service
  • Electric kettle
  • Refrigerator
  • Tea bags/instant coffee

More

  • Air conditioning
  • Desk
  • Free daily newspapers
  • Iron/ironing board
  • Laptop-compatible safe
  • Phone

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 2:30 PM
Late check-in subject to availability
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

The property charges 3.5 percent for credit card payments
Front desk staff will greet guests on arrival at the property
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Access methods

Staffed front desk

Pets

  • Service animals exempt from fees

Children and extra beds

  • Rollaway/extra beds are available for NZD 35.0 per night

Property payment types

Important information

Optional extras

These fees and deposits will be charged at check-in, check-out, or the time of service.

  • Fee for buffet breakfast: approximately NZD 35.00 per person
  • Rollaway bed fee: NZD 35.0 per night
  • Credit card charges are subject to a surcharge of 3.5 percent

This list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits might not include tax and are subject to change.

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
This property accepts credit cards; cash is not accepted
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room
  • Check-in: 2:30 PM
  • Check-out: 10:00 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 18
The front desk is open 24 hours a day. Driving? This property offers free parking.

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
  • This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children. If you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • This property accepts credit cards. Cash is not accepted. 

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • There are no elevators.

National rating

Property class, provided by our rating system, is based on property type, amenities, and services.

Property is also known as

Kingsgate Hotel Whangarei
Kingsgate Whangarei
Distinction Whangarei Hotel
Distinction Whangarei
Distinction Whangarei Hotel Conference Centre
Distinction Whangarei Hotel & Conference Centre Hotel
Distinction Whangarei Hotel & Conference Centre Whangarei
Distinction Whangarei Hotel & Conference Centre Hotel Whangarei

Frequently asked questions

Is free cancellation available at Distinction Whangarei Hotel & Conference Centre?

Distinction Whangarei Hotel & Conference Centre provides free cancellation on certain room rates. For additional details, review the cancellation policy on Orbitz.

How much does it cost to stay at Distinction Whangarei Hotel & Conference Centre?

As of May 16, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Distinction Whangarei Hotel & Conference Centre on May 17, 2026 start from $120, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

What is there to do close to Distinction Whangarei Hotel & Conference Centre?

This hotel is situated in Riverside, just steps from Town Basin Marina and Claphams National Clock Museum, and within a short walk of Hundertwasser Art Centre. You'll also find Whangarei Art Museum and Reyburn House less than a mile away.

Will I be able to park at Distinction Whangarei Hotel & Conference Centre?

Yes, self parking is offered for free at the hotel.

Does Distinction Whangarei Hotel & Conference Centre have a casino at the property?

No, Distinction Whangarei Hotel & Conference Centre doesn't have a casino.

Will I find an indoor pool at Distinction Whangarei Hotel & Conference Centre?

Yes, this hotel has an indoor pool along with a hot tub.

What do couples enjoy most about Distinction Whangarei Hotel & Conference Centre?

This waterfront hotel offers many amenities for couples such as a restaurant and an indoor pool with some guestrooms featuring a private hot tub.

Are there hot tubs at Distinction Whangarei Hotel & Conference Centre?

No, this hotel doesn't have a spa tub.

Does Distinction Whangarei Hotel & Conference Centre feature a restaurant that includes a breakfast menu?

Yes, Distinction Whangarei Hotel & Conference Centre serves buffet breakfast each morning for a surcharge from its restaurant.

Will Distinction Whangarei Hotel & Conference Centre allow pets to stay for free?

No, pets aren't allowed at Distinction Whangarei Hotel & Conference Centre though service animals are welcome.

Are there connecting rooms at Distinction Whangarei Hotel & Conference Centre?

No, there aren't connecting guestrooms at this hotel.

How far is the airport from Distinction Whangarei Hotel & Conference Centre?

The closest major airport to Distinction Whangarei Hotel & Conference Centre is Whangarei (WRE), which is 4.4 mi away (8 minutes by car).

Can I book a room with a balcony at Distinction Whangarei Hotel & Conference Centre?

Yes, some guestrooms at Distinction Whangarei Hotel & Conference Centre offer a balcony and may feature marina views.

Distinction Whangarei Hotel & Conference Centre Reviews

Reviews

7.8

Good

Rating 10 - Excellent. 194 out of 628 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 251 out of 628 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 121 out of 628 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 44 out of 628 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 18 out of 628 reviews

8.0/10

Cleanliness

8.6/10

Staff & service

7.8/10

Amenities

7.2/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Suzanne

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Staff was excellent, the room was a little tired but fine, the best part was we had a perfect view of our boat in the harbor,
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2026

4/10 Poor

Serene

Liked: Staff & service
Disliked: Cleanliness, amenities
Staff were amazing and very helpful. Only downsides were the pool said heated online and a spa and both were stone cold. The room was great but no tap for filling jug for coffee etc just the bathroom sink. And the curtains all had mould on the backs and need to be replaced.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2026

10/10 Excellent

Jeremy

Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Clean, seemed newly renovated room despite dated hallways and lounges.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2026

8/10 Good

Yu

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Nice location
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2026

10/10 Excellent

joyce

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The rooms were fresh and clean. We had a double room. Has suffice amenities ie small fridge for water or milk to make a tea or coffee. Bathroom was clean but the shower needs to be made a little bigger or put hooks in the spare area so u can hang clothes after the pool or a line yo hang togs after a swim or something like that. Possibly look at a swim suit spinner so not much water tracks through the hotel. We had dinner in the restaurant and that was nice enough. Bar guy was stern not very happy. But the ladies in the restaurant were awesome. Also the check in staff 70/30. Like advise everyone where to park not just some. Be helpful on check ins. I am still giving 5 stars as it had everything we needed and loved the pool and spa area. The pool is shallow but does the trick out of the heat. Spa was nice enough after the big walk around the area and some long travel days.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2026

8/10 Good

Bruce

Stayed 1 night in Feb 2026

10/10 Excellent

milan

Easy as
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2026

6/10 Okay

Andrew

Traveled with partner
Disliked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Staff friendly and helpful and location of hotel is good with views of the marina and into town if needed. The big downside is the condition of the property. It is extremely dated and tatty. Carpets are worn and stained throughout and it needs significant investment and modernisation. Wallpaper peeling and the carpets in the corridors of the building we were in didn’t look like they had seen a vacuum for a while. Food for breakfast was ok and standard for small hotels. Restaurant and bar shut at 9pm which meant no opportunity for an evening drink. Location was good which made it ok to stay in.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2026

8/10 Good

Shaizal

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
Great place to stay
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2026

10/10 Excellent

Elaine

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great location to Whangarei. You can walk into the town. Watch the marina or go to the museum opposite. The room is a good size it comes with a sofa, large tv and tea and coffee (fridge included) the bathroom has a shower unit and a spa bath, if we had stayed longer we would have used it. There is an indoor swimming pool and spa centre on site. Ample parking included.
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2026

10/10 Excellent

Justina, Pegs Creek

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Room was lovely, clean and comfortable. Staff were amazing. Great location.
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2026

10/10 Excellent

Ailyn, Rotorua

Liked: Cleanliness
Clean room and friendly staff.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025

8/10 Good

Jenifer

The room was clean and large, however I booked for two separate people and there was no spare bed, or trundler bed, available. The restaurant was great - the breakfast was superb!
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2026

10/10 Excellent

Mark

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The staff were wonderful. Room was clean. Had tee there i the first night ,was yummy 😋.. I would stay there again.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2026

10/10 Excellent

Vihanga Sankalpa Kariyawasam

Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Easy parking and convenient space in the Whangarei town center. Great staff and amenities around.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2026

10/10 Excellent

Daniel

Stayed 1 night in Jan 2026

10/10 Excellent

Janet

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great stay. Beds very comfy. Value for money. Only slight thing was you could hear some noise from outside room but not a major problem and definitely not while sleeping.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2026

10/10 Excellent

Tony

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
The hotel may look dated in certain areas, but the rooms themselves have been refurbished, are modern and comfortable. The room was good value for money and we enjoyed stay here, and the staff were pleasant and approachable
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2026

10/10 Excellent

Samphous

Stayed 1 night in Jan 2026

10/10 Excellent

Rachel

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The room was clean & very comfortable. There is a heated swimming pool and Easy walk into town.
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2026

10/10 Excellent

Brian

Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025

6/10 Okay

Joyce

Traveled with family and small children
Liked: Staff & service
Convenient location, dated room, friendly staff.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2025

8/10 Good

Rachel

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities
Disliked: Property conditions & facilities
Everything was good. Apart from hearing the TV from the room next door at 3am for an hour. Not the hotels fault, but frustrating.
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025

8/10 Good

Jacqueline

Liked: Cleanliness
Great location and view. Let down a bit by badly needing a refurb.
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025

8/10 Good

Gayla

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Staff was nice and welcoming; the room cleaning was excellent… although the room had a funky smell, the bed was comfortable. I could have done without the strange round mirror in the room.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2025

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