Naumi Studio Wellington

This hotel stands out for its vibrant and artistic decor, creating a visually stimulating and memorable atmosphere that many guests describe as unique and fun. Its signature feature is its prime central location directly on Cuba Street, placing guests at the heart of Wellington's lively cultural and dining scene. This makes it an ideal choice for sightseers and explorers eager to immerse themselves in the city's offerings, as well as couples seeking a romantic and stylish getaway. Friends and groups also find the hotel appealing for its social ambiance and proximity to entertainment. While the hotel is generally well-regarded, guests should be aware that rooms can be warm due to a lack of air conditioning, especially during warmer months. Requesting a room away from street-facing areas or on a higher floor is advisable for those sensitive to noise.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel offers a range of facilities, though guest experiences are mixed. Many appreciate the presence of a swimming pool and spa, providing options for relaxation, although some guests reported the pool water being cold or the spa being out of order for maintenance. A fitness center is available, though it is noted as being small. Guests consistently praise the inviting lobby, lounge areas, and bar, which are often highlighted for their appealing decor and comfortable seating, making them great spots to unwind. Free Wi-Fi is generally reliable throughout the property. Thoughtful touches like coffee machines in rooms and complimentary popcorn and lollies at reception are frequently mentioned and well-received. However, some guests noted that the mini-bar has been axed or requires a bond, and the elevator can be slow or occasionally out of service.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest feedback on room comfort is generally positive, with many praising the comfortable beds and high-quality linen that ensure a restful sleep. The decor within the rooms is consistently highlighted as stylish and unique. However, a recurring concern is the room size, with many describing them as small or compact, though some larger rooms are available. A significant point of contention is the lack of air conditioning, leading to rooms being too warm or stuffy, especially in warmer weather, with only a ceiling fan often proving insufficient. Noise levels are frequently mentioned, stemming from street noise, noisy neighbors, or even cleaning staff. While some bathrooms are described as great with Antipodes products and good water pressure, others note issues such as small size, leaking showers, rusty drains, or bathroom doors that do not close fully, impacting privacy.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's dining options receive largely positive reviews. The breakfast buffet is frequently praised for its quality and variety, with guests highlighting it as delicious and offering a good selection of hot and cold items. While some found it to be on the pricier side, many considered it a worthwhile addition to their stay. The on-site restaurant and bar are popular choices, with guests commending the food quality and the vibrant atmosphere. The bar is particularly noted for its cocktails, which are described as creative and well-crafted, making it a lively spot for both hotel guests and locals. Some guests mentioned that the restaurant kitchen might close earlier than expected, and bar service can occasionally be slow during busy periods.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is overwhelmingly praised as one of its strongest assets. Situated directly on Cuba Street, guests find themselves within immediate walking distance of a plethora of restaurants, cafes, and shops, offering diverse dining and entertainment options. Its proximity to major city attractions and public transport links, including bus stops, makes exploring Wellington highly convenient. While the central setting is a major draw, it also contributes to street noise, particularly on weekends. Parking is available, though it is often described as limited and can be expensive, with guests advised to book in advance or explore nearby alternative options, including street parking which may be free during certain hours.

Staff & Service
The hotel staff generally receive high praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and attentiveness. Many guests highlight their welcoming demeanor and willingness to assist with requests, contributing significantly to a positive experience. The check-in process is often described as smooth and efficient, though some guests found the self-check-in kiosks confusing or experienced issues with booking information. The 24-hour reception is appreciated for its responsiveness. While housekeeping is generally seen as maintaining clean rooms, some guests noted a change to less frequent service (every other day) or occasional oversights like dust. However, the staff's overall commitment to providing excellent service, including assistance with luggage and local recommendations, is a recurring theme in positive reviews.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware of the hotel's deposit policy, which typically involves a $100 or $200 bond held for several days after checkout, a point of frustration for some. The hotel operates a cashless policy, which some guests found inconvenient. There have been changes to in-room amenities, with the mini-bar either removed or requiring a bond, and cleaning frequency reduced to every other day. However, the hotel offers unique reception snacks like marshmallows and lollies, which are a delightful touch. Some guests noted a lack of basic kitchenette amenities like cutlery and crockery in rooms advertised with them. The option for late checkout is a valued benefit for many travelers.