Copthorne Hotel Oriental Bay Wellington

Nothing particularly charming or distinctive about this business hotel. The room was clean and comfortable enough, but the price didn’t feel justified. We paid extra for a harbour view and mostly ended up looking at the hotel’s cooling tower. Parking is available, though the lot is awkward to use.

The room was more or less what I expected, just a bit worn, and the price didn’t reflect the hotel’s general disrepair. I’ve stayed at the Copthorne Wellington a few times over the past several years, and I used to love being near the conference centre with those incredible harbour views. I may have felt differently if the website had explained the work and its effect on the stay, but it didn’t. My expectations and what I found were quite different. I’d consider returning once the work is finished, though I’ll look at other options until then. A large part of the hotel is closed indefinitely for seismic proofing. I understand that’s required by local law and can’t be helped, but I wish they’d given guests a heads-up. There was no mention on the website before or after booking, or in the emails. The Oriental Parade entrance felt unwelcoming, and its changed appearance caught me off guard as a returning guest. Reception used to be at that entrance; it’s now on Level 7, in what felt like a makeshift desk in the bar area, surrounded by random drawers and office equipment. I’m also unsure what would have happened if I’d booked one of the premium ocean-view rooms, which seemed to remain available online even though they’re closed. The staff were the saving grace. Everyone I met was very friendly, customer service was excellent, and housekeeping did a great job without getting in the way.

The rooms were very clean and nicely equipped, and the beds were comfortable. I stayed twice during my holiday and would recommend it, as long as you know the parking is tight, limited, and paid. Anyone with a larger vehicle should check the entrance and parking area first, since getting in and out can be tricky. From the balcony there are harbour views, and the location is pretty good. You can walk to lots of restaurants, the museum, and the shops, or stroll around the harbour. Just be ready for a decent uphill walk on the way back. I didn’t eat at the in-house restaurant, but it looked nice and it’s handy to have the option.

The receptionist was excellent, a friendly and helpful young man with blond hair who gave us directions and suggested places to check out. Finding the hotel was a real hassle. It’s completely hidden, with no visible hotel frontage or grand entrance. We made several loops and drove up a narrow one-way lane trying to work out where it was. You have to go through an inconspicuous parking area at an awkward angle to reach it. Parking was about $30AUD per day, from what I remember, and spaces were very limited. There’s also outdoor parking at different rates, but conditions apply. Cars don’t have an easy time here.