We check out the SO/ Auckland – and find ourselves an incredible deal which means you’ll find us stuffing our face at the breakfast buffet, stat! Here’s our SO/ Auckland review.
You know you’re staying in an absolute vibe of a hotel when it can double as a fashion shoot location, spa sanctuary and perfect rooftop party venue – and that’s before you get to the sheer luxury of the rooms themselves.
When you’re shelling out money for a fancy hotel, you’re after value. You want to feel equally like a queen who’s whims are very much taken care of without even having to think of them, and also like you’ve scored the bargain of the century with all the cool stuff you get to experience, see and do in your stay.
Thaaaaankfully, SO/ Auckland delivers on all of the above. I’m staying over in what’s turned out to be a little solo staycation in my own city – in fact, this hotel is about a 13-minute drive from my house, which in theory seems a little extravagant and unnecessary. BUT, sometimes needs must and I’ve found myself enjoying some ‘me time’ (ok fine combined with a little bit of uninterrupted work which also feels like a dream!) and discovering what makes the SO/ Auckland tick. Here are my thoughts:
VIBE: Looking out over the Waitemata, SO/ Auckland is located bang smack in the middle of Auckland’s CBD, and the hotel is rooted in quirky luxury. A fashion-forward hotel that smacks of avant-garde design, you know this is no average accom the instant you walk into the lobby and you’re greeted with the biggest chandelier you’ve ever seen (that almost reaches to the floor), dark moody tones interspersed with bold, playful colours and couches tipped up on the ends. She’s a quirky wee spot, all right – but it’s also fun and freeing, and sets you up for a fab time.
ROOM: Every one of the 130 rooms in the SO/ Auckland feature a gorgeous, free-standing bath – so luxurious soaks and pamper time are at the very top of my order. The design of the rooms has been inspired by Auckland’s famed volcanoes (like, not literally – more abstractly, thank God) and it’s decked out with all the fancy goodies you’d expect – Nespresso machines, mini bars, impossibly fluffy pillows and delicious-smelling bath stuff. It’s a comfy stay that’s perfect for a business base or a staycation with the gals (there’s also a veeery fancy and veeeery big penthouse I’ve been lucky enough to stay in before if you’re shelling out for something special!).
FOOD AND DRINK: This is where things get tres good – you’re absolutely spoilt with gorgeous options, no matter what you’re in the mood for. Sometimes when you’re at a nice hotel, you don’t actually want to leave – luckily, you can head up to Hi-So, the stunning rooftop bar, for amazing cocktails (their Jaffa martini is something that has to be tried to be believed, it’s that good) and fab food. Tip: try and head there on Sundays for Yakatori Sunday, and they also offer awesome sundowner specials between 3-6pm – $99 for a bottle of champagne and 12 oysters? Get IN. There’s always a good vibe on the roof, but if you’re looking for something a bit more chill, go down one level to Harbour Society – it’s a little fancy, a little refined and very, very good.
FANCY STUFF: And by fancy stuff, you know I mean the spa. Descend into the underground world of So Spa, built just above the old gold vaults of the Reserve Bank (I told you it was fancy!). Featuring a 20m indoor lap pool, Finnish sauna, steam room, spa pool, a fully‑equipped gym, and four treatment rooms, it’s the perfect place to unwind. Booking in spa packages is practically mandatory: try the Himalayan rock‑salt detox, Tibetan sound healing, chakra balancing, or bespoke facials – or just a simple massage (trust me – absolutely heavenly!).
$1 BREAKFAST – SERIOUSLY? Absolutely. SO/ Auckland is currently offering daily breakfast at just $1 per person—if booked directly and selecting the “$1 Breakfast” deal at time of booking. It’s available through 31 October 2025. Breakfast is served at Harbour Society on the 15th floor with sweeping views, offering a sumptuous buffet plus à la carte hot dishes, fresh‑pressed juices you can make yourself, heaps of gluten‑free options and good barista coffee. It’s such a gorgeous way to start your day and you really do feel like you’re treating yourself!
