Floral paradise
Avenues editor Liam Stretch recently stayed at Wellington's newest boutique hotel - Naumi Studio Wellington.
Naumi Hotels has opened its seventh property in Wellington, New Zealand, bringing its colourful and wild style to the city's iconic Cuba Street.
Naumi Wellington's 62 rooms are more akin to studio apartments than hotel rooms, with a colour palette that reflects the brand's eclectic design. The rooms feature bold colour blocking inspired by nature, such as lilac, avocado green, and rusty red, and statement peanut bedside lights by Sweden-based Ovature Studios. The walls are draped in sumptuous velvet for a cosy feel, and the rooms boast the largest televisions in the country at 65". The rooms are themed, with each offering something a little different.
I stayed in the 'Habitat King', which was spacious and well-appointed, with fantastic views of the city beyond. A real treat was the turndown service with tea and robe made from sari offcuts (made through Naumi's social enterprise 'Humanity' programme, which supports underprivileged communities).
An added bonus and a nod to the best of local, guests can take a piece of New Zealand's gourmet offerings with them from the special mini bar, which features local brands with a connection to the hotel.
On top of a luxurious stay, Naumi Wellington's restaurants and bars are a hit. Lola Rouge offers a South-East Asian menu and an extensive drinks menu of boutique wines, cocktails, and beers from local craft breweries.
The Parlour, inspired by Parisian conservatories, is a space to enjoy high tea and cocktails, with floral sculptural assemblages from renowned New Zealand artist Judy Darragh adorning the green walls. The cocktail menu here is extensive, offering some of the best in the Windy City.