Queenstown has always held a bit of magic for me. There’s just something about the mountains meeting the lake, the crisp air, and the feeling that anything is possible. On my latest New Zealand trip, I decided to upgrade the experience a little and check into The Spire Hotel. Tucked away on a quiet laneway in the middle of town, this boutique property promised a peaceful retreat with all the perks of a central location—and it absolutely delivered.
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Location and first impressions
Pulling up to The Spire, I immediately noticed how discreet and well-positioned it was. Church Lane feels a bit like a secret passage, just a stone’s throw from the energy of downtown Queenstown, but somehow protected from the noise and crowds. You’re literally a minute’s walk from the lakefront, incredible bars, restaurants, and local attractions—yet when you step inside the hotel, it’s like the world slows down. There’s an effortless sense of calm, with sleek interiors, welcoming staff, and a glass of something nice waiting for you on arrival.
The suite life
The suite blew me away. As someone who’s stayed in a fair few hotels over the years, it takes something special to stand out—and this did. The space was massive, with high ceilings, rich timber finishes, and big, bold art pieces that gave it a sense of character. The bed was a super king and genuinely one of the most comfortable I’ve slept in. There was a fireplace flickering in the corner, creating this warm, cozy vibe that made me want to pour a whisky and just sink in.
Floor-to-ceiling glass doors opened out to a private balcony, where I could sit and soak up the views of Queenstown’s dramatic alpine backdrop. Every corner of the suite felt thoughtfully put together—from the espresso machine and premium minibar to the Bluetooth sound system and lightning-fast Wi-Fi. The bathroom, too, was luxe without being over-the-top: heated floors, a deep soaking tub that practically demanded a long bath, and a rain shower with water pressure that actually delivered.
Dining at Tamarind by No5 Church Lane
One of the things that really impressed me was the food. The Spire shares a space with Tamarind by No 5 Church Lane, a bold little restaurant that fuses modern Indian cuisine with African influences. Honestly, it wasn’t what I expected from a boutique hotel restaurant—but it completely surprised me, in the best way.
Dinner was a highlight. The menu was full of unexpected flavour combinations—spiced lamb shoulder, tamarind chutneys, slow-cooked goat, plus plenty of plant-based dishes that were just as interesting. Each dish packed a punch without feeling too heavy. The staff were super friendly and clearly passionate about what they were serving, which made the whole experience feel even more personal.
Amenities and services
While The Spire isn’t trying to compete with massive resorts on the amenities front, what they do, they do really well. There’s no in-house spa, but the concierge happily booked a massage for me at a nearby partner spa, and even arranged transport. There’s also a fully-equipped gym just down the lane that guests can use—ideal if you’re keen to stay active while you travel.
The service here was low-key but polished. The kind where everything just happens smoothly in the background. Turndown service with local treats, morning coffees just the way you like them, and spot-on local recommendations that didn’t feel like tourist traps. It was the little details that made a big difference.
Exploring Queenstown
If you’ve been to Queenstown before, you’ll know how walkable it is—and staying at The Spire puts you right in the heart of everything. I spent my days strolling along the lake, ducking into cafes, and jumping on spontaneous adventures like jet boating and scenic flights. Everything felt so accessible.
The hotel’s proximity made it easy to get back for a quick recharge or to freshen up before dinner. I also appreciated how connected the staff were to the local scene. Whether I was after the best flat white, a tucked-away hiking trail, or a quiet bar with a killer view, they had genuine suggestions that felt tailored to what I was into.
Final thoughts
My stay at The Spire was the kind of experience that sticks with you—not just because of the luxe suite or the central location, but because of how it made me feel. It struck that perfect balance between high-end comfort and down-to-earth hospitality. Whether you’re in Queenstown for adrenaline, romance, or just a break from the real world, this place gives you a front-row seat to it all… without any of the noise.
It’s one of those rare finds where you feel like you’re living the good life—without needing to shout about it. For me, The Spire is easily one of the best boutique hotels in Queenstown, and I’d go back in a heartbeat.
best boutique hotels in Queenstown
Book your stay at The Spire Hotel here