The Pullman Auckland has its strengths, but there are notable drawbacks that potential guests should consider.
Location: While centrally situated, the hotel is perched on a steep hill. Exploring the city on foot means you'll have to tackle this climb each time you return—challenging for those with mobility issues, strollers, or heavy luggage.
Rooms and Bathrooms: The overall standard is decent mid-range, but the bathrooms are outdated to the point where they never feel fully clean, despite being well-maintained. A renovation is overdue.
Breakfast Experience: The breakfast service was the most disappointing aspect of the stay. For example there were no cheese slices available, which felt odd for a hotel breakfast. Items often ran out by 9 am and were not replenished. The overall selection seemed unusual, with a lack of fresh, high-quality options. The coffee was undrinkable, and there were no proper bread rolls. Seating was insufficient, forcing some guests to eat in the hallway amidst an uncomfortably noisy atmosphere. The hardworking and friendly staff did their best, but there simply weren’t enough of them to handle the crowd. As someone who loves hotel breakfasts, this experience was a letdown.
General Vibe: The hotel caters largely to families with young children and tourists heading out on cruises. It’s not 5-star standard as advertised but rather solidly mid-tier.
Recommendation: For a more enjoyable stay in Auckland, consider the Movenpick or Intercontinental. Both have better locations and are likely to provide a higher standard of service.