"A mash of Art Deco architecture, sixties furnishings, and perky service, the 25-room Hotel DeBrett reflects the designer savvy and eclectic lifestyles of this edgy little district of downtown Auckland. Slick black-and-white bathrooms are a throwback to Mod Squad-era polka-dot dresses, and Austin Powers would feel right at home sliding down the two-story loft suites’ spiral staircases or spinning vintage vinyl in the cozy drawing room with its record player and DVD library. The hotel’s heart is an airy, art-filled two-story atrium that encloses the restaurant and courtyard of the adjacent bar, a place to kick back as Auckland’s notoriously fickle skies roll overhead like a time-lapse movie. The food is super-fresh Kiwi culinary fare, like braised lamb croquette, vine tomato, olive jus, and eggplant puree. The DeBrett doesn’t have a spa or gym but will gladly arrange in-room massages or personal trainer appointments, though most guests get their exercise exploring the city, including the boutiques along High Street and the bustling Viaduct Harbour with its waterfront pubs and America’s Cup yachts."
