The Classic Villa

No worries, mate!

What a pleasant experience! Our trip to Christchurch was one big hassle (mechanical problems, unexpected overnite at LAX, 22 hours on planes, etc.) but the operative phrase once we arrived at The Classic Villa was "No worries, mate!" Peter and his staff took excellent care of us. We decided to change our original reservation and and requested to split our stay at the Villa into two segments sandwiched around a 3 day trip into the Southern Alps - No worries, mate! Need a pop after a long day seeing the sights? No worries, mate! Take a nip from the decanters of brandy and sherry located in the hall. Want to catch up with what’s happening on the other side of the world? No worries, mate! There’s a computer with internet always on and available 24/7 in the office area. The location is primo -- right across from the Arts Center complex down the street from the Gardens and a huge park. Several restaurants and the night club area within three blocks of the Villa. The rooms were plush and well appointed. The only "issues": the TV channel selection was pretty limited, there was only hanging space for clothes - no drawers -- and I didn’t have a proper desk work area in the room. Other than that, it was perfect. We’ll be back!

Terrific location; lovely boutique hotel.

Christchurch is a surprisingly attractive small city. We passed through twice. The first time to catch the Trans-Alpine railroad to the West Coast; the second time returning by car from the West Coast, en route to Aukland. The Classic Villa could perhaps have a niftier name, but it was a lovely remodeled mansion or former club: lots of original wood paneling; an open, relaxed, reception/kitchen/dining area; an amply sized hotel room w/modern bathroom; parking out in front; and, excellent service. It’s located right across from the Arts Center, and excellent restaurants are close-by, including Annie’s Wine Bar, which was a treat. The Christchurch Art Gallery, with an intriguing art collection, is within easy walking distance, as is the center of the City; and, a wonderful Botanic Gardens is also right around the corner. We enjoyed our stay at the hotel and in Christchurch.

Can’t wait to go back

Free parking, great buffet breakfast, free internet, the room was really nice, it feels like you’re in a classic italian villa of the 1800s. Great stay, I will definitely go back in the future.

Terrific Experience in Christchurch

Beautiful in-town villa within easy walking distance of city center. Management/owner present to meet every need or request. Breakfast served family style including vodka for mix-your-own Bloody Mary! Parking on site; convenient to restaurants and entertainment.Spent 4 weeks traveling in Australia and N.Z. and this was our favorite hotel.

Traveler's tip on getting the most out of your stay

Laundry picked up by retail service at hotel so prices much more reasionable than typical big hotel; "Cookin with Gas" restaurant next door is excellent; try the Court Theate across the street for live performances.

We’ll stay here again

Great updated historic house in perfect location near park, museums, cathedral, the Avon, theaters, and more. Extremely comfortable room and tasteful decor throughout. Fun, tasty, and filling "continental" breakfast. Helpful owners and staff. We were sorry that we could not stay longer and look forward to staying at the Classic Villa when we return to Christchurch.

Traveler's tip on getting the most out of your stay

Take 2+/- hour walking tour that departs from near Cathedral Square. We learned history and enjoyed stories told by our docent, a retired teacher whose great grandfather was of one of the original settlers.

Best location in Christ Church

We loved being in the arts district, and enjoyed the hospitality and comeraderie of the guests who were from all over the world.

Traveler's tip on local attractions

Go soon, stay a while, and return often!

at home like

The Classic Villa was like a BB located in very convenient place. It was quite nice family like small accomodation where you can reluxe during your stay. The only thing I wanted t upgrade was Internet connection set up.

They made Christchurch for us

We didn’t know where to go or what to do while booking our trip to New Zealand did some research here and read the reviews. But you never know for sure, This was a GEM of a place and we would recommend the CLASSIC VILLA to anyone and everyone that is going to Christchurch. Great location and people.

Traveler's tip on getting the most out of your stay

Within walking distance,(easy), of the center of town and shopping and history for everyone. Don’t miss the open market just accross the street.

Christchurch great hotel

Small boutique hotel (posh bed and breakfast), friendly atmosphere, great rooms loads of character over a big hotel. Its more like staying with family or friends, very personal and we loved it so much we went back.

Fabulous find

This B&B was everything we could have hoped for! Great location, comfortable and very clean rooms, charming but with all modern amenities. The breakfast is delicious and the management even offers cool drinks and coffee and tea throughout the day. Nothing is overlooked, and just steps away from the art centre and the stunning botanical gardens.

Great Bed & Breakfast

Wonderful centrally located place.

Would stay there again

Even though this hotel is located in the heart of the city, it was very quiet. The owner and staff were very helpful and friendly. My room was very warm and comfortable (middle of winter). A good range of breakfasts.

Traveler's tip on local attractions

Tourist tram goes right past the hotel with a stop just over the road. The tram driver points out all the local attractions as he takes you on a circular route around the centre of the city. Art gallery, art centre and theatre all within a stone’s throw. Good selection of shops five minutes walk away. Pretty River Avon also five minutes walk away and in opposite direction botanical gardens.

A nice Bed and Breakfast

This is a bed and breakfast and the host provides a lovely breakfast. We had a large room and it was very clean and the beds were comfortable. However, it was very sterile looking and the room was all white. The day we arrived was very warm and we were worried that we would not be able to sleep as there is no air conditioning. By evening it did cool down. But usually the climate is cooler and the beds had electric blankets. The location was very good for walking to everything. I would give this B&B just 3 stars and it seems a little expensive for what it offers. However, it was nice to have free local phone calls and internet.

Traveler's tip on getting the most out of your stay

The Arts Centre across the street is worthwhile and the trips to the harbors are lovely. Enjoy the beautiful parks. A great sports bar is "The Holy Grail". Palazzo Seafood is very good.

A rare gem!

Our stay at The Classic Villa was a delight. Beautiful room with all ammenities, excellent location to downtown, park and transportation and special events. Well hosted, felt like home. We will be back.

Traveler's tip on local attractions

Check the Arts Center for special events. It’s Just across the street. Saturday market during the summer is fun ajacent to Arts Center.

Can’t beat it

I have to admit that I was a little dubious of all the 5* ratings this hotel had received but I now understand how they came about. It is really great, we only had a 2 night stay but wish they’d had space for a third, perfect location, friendly owner and staff, great breakfast, very comfortable bed and modern bathroom. The photos don’t do it justice. Treat yourselves it really deserves its 5*.

Traveler's tip on dining

Do be aware that Christchurch is a sleepy town and many restaurants close at 10pm, not the best start when you get to the airport in the rain at 9.30pm! It you like Indian food try the Raj Mahal, very good, make a reservation for Fri or Sat nights though and get there before 10!