Room check: Pullman Auckland

The Pullman's Omni Bar is a perfect place for a tipple and some nosh. Photo / Supplied

A city break in this centrally-located hotel leaves Courtney Whitaker impressed.

Getting there: An easy 10-minute jaunt into the CBD by car for us. Or for international travellers, 40 minutes from the airport, and five minutes from Britomart train station.

Check-in experience: Couldn't fault it. The valet service whipped the car away faster than we could blink, and after a friendly welcome we were checked in and upgraded from the Pullman Tower to the residential apartment suites.

Room: One bedroom apartment with stunning views over the city from the large balcony. A full kitchen, well-equipped mini-bar, Sky TV, and free wi-fi.

Price: $250 a night as a package deal.

What's so good about this place? You could check in and ensconce yourself for the entire stay if you wanted. Everything you need is at your fingertips, although with some of Auckland's best restaurants only blocks away, why would you?

And the bad? Not necessarily a negative, unless you wear heels. The hotel is positioned on a steep hill so the best way to get around is to catch a cab to dinner, or opt for trainers.

What's in the neighbourhood? Albert Park is within strolling distance, as are Chancery's shops and cafes. Or if you like dining with a view, the Sky Tower and Viaduct are a short drive away.

Food and drink: Omni Bar in the lobby will satisfy even the fussiest of diners. We ordered the bruschetta and dumplings, and wine using our drink vouchers from check-in. No wonder there is a well-equipped gym within rolling distance.

The bed: Comfortable king-size.

Breakfast? Included in the deal. Buffet-style and hectic when the guests descend to get their fill before 10am. But the machine pumping out freshly squeezed orange juice was worth dragging ourselves out of bed for.

Bathroom: Massive. Enough room to swing several cats and complete with deep, luxurious bathtub and the oh-so-handy toilet phone.

Noise: None.

Value for money: Yes, although it is worth looking for package deals as you get more bang for your buck.

Exercise facilities: A very well-equipped gym, pool, sauna and spa. The hotel also has a lovely day spa with an extensive list of treatments. Worthy of mention is the menu of smoothies available using protein powder or the new hipster-favourite, Good Green Stuff. Gym bunnies will feel right at home here.

Perfect for: A weekend getaway or business. The Pullman has a maze of conference rooms and function facilities for all occasions.

Would I return? Definitely.

Highlight: The valet parking was a high point for this jaded Auckland driver. I don't do well with parking buildings so this was my ideal. The complimentary bottles of water in the car when it was returned were a nice touch.

CHECKLIST

Pullman Auckland is on the corner of Princes Street and Waterloo Quadrant, Auckland. Phone: 09 353 1000.