Hotels in Grafton

Experience the Thrill of Grafton: Where Nature Meets Sport in a Scenic Playground

Nestled just a stone's throw from downtown Auckland, Grafton is a vibrant blend of urban charm and natural beauty. This unique neighborhood boasts stunning parks like the lush Grafton Cemetery and the breathtaking Auckland Domain, featuring the iconic Auckland War Memorial Museum. Sports enthusiasts can catch thrilling events at the nearby Eden Park stadium, while the picturesque Grafton Bridge offers stunning views of the skyline. With its rich cultural tapestry, eclectic eateries, and artistic vibe, Grafton invites travelers to experience the heart of Auckland's spirit—perfect for a romantic escape or a weekend adventure. For the best hotel rates in Grafton and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Grafton

Grafton, Auckland offers exciting attractions for travelers. The Sky Tower provides stunning panoramic views and dining experiences, making it perfect for first-time visitors. Princes Wharf is a vibrant waterfront area with restaurants and shops, ideal for leisurely strolls. Mt. Smart Stadium hosts thrilling sports events and concerts. Accommodation in Grafton ranges from budget hostels to upscale hotels, ensuring options for every traveler. Staying in Grafton allows easy access to Auckland's attractions while enjoying a relaxed atmosphere. Here are some of the best hotels in Grafton that our travelers love:

1. Near Sky TowerOpens in a new window: This area is perfect for travelers seeking a vibrant city atmosphere, combining entertainment and business opportunities. With attractions like the iconic Sky Tower and nearby casinos, it offers a lively environment for both leisure and corporate visitors. For accommodations, SkyCity HotelOpens in a new window is a well-rated 4.5-star hotel, ideal for families and business travelers, featuring amenities like an on-site casino and services for children. Another excellent option is The Grand by SkyCityOpens in a new window, a luxurious 5.0-star hotel that also caters to families and business needs, with a 24-hour business center and various childcare options. Lastly, Rydges AucklandOpens in a new window, a 4.5-star hotel, provides a blend of business and luxury, with multiple meeting rooms and a conference center, making it a great choice for professionals.
2. Near Mt. Smart StadiumOpens in a new window: This region is a fantastic choice for sports enthusiasts and families, offering a range of recreational activities and a community-centered vibe. The area is close to various sporting events and outdoor activities. Orere Point TOP 10 Holiday ParkOpens in a new window is a budget-friendly 2.5-star holiday park, perfect for families, featuring amenities like mini-golf and a shared playground to keep kids entertained. Another option is Luxury Under CanvasOpens in a new window, a cozy 3.0-star lodge that provides a rustic experience and is surrounded by picturesque rural views, ideal for those looking to relax and explore the natural beauty of New Zealand.

Things to do in Grafton for first time

Grafton, nestled near Auckland, offers a delightful mix of stunning landscapes, from lush parks to majestic mountains. Travelers can enjoy activities like hiking, boating, and exploring vibrant shopping areas. With its blend of natural beauty and entertainment options, Grafton is a perfect three-day getaway for any adventurer. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Grafton:

• Day 1: Start your adventure at the iconic Sky Tower, where you can take in breathtaking panoramic views of Auckland from the observation deck. Afterward, make your way to the University of Auckland Library, a perfect spot for book lovers to explore a vast collection of resources and enjoy the serene atmosphere. Finally, unwind at Emily Place Reserve, a lovely green space where you can relax and soak in the local ambiance—ideal for a leisurely stroll or a picnic among the trees.
• Day 2: Begin your day at Princes Wharf, a vibrant area filled with shops and eateries, perfect for a waterfront breakfast. Next, immerse yourself in the thrilling experience at Fly A Jet - Flight Simulator, where you can feel the rush of flying a jet without leaving the ground. To wrap up the day, delve into the creative world of Weta Workshop Unleashed, where you can explore the magic of movie-making and see behind-the-scenes magic from some of your favorite films.
• Day 3: Kick off with a hike up Mt. Eden, one of Auckland's highest volcanic cones, offering stunning views of the city. After your hike, visit the Auckland War Memorial Museum, where you can learn about New Zealand's rich history and culture through fascinating exhibits. Conclude your day at Queens Wharf, a bustling hub where you can enjoy waterfront dining or simply relax by the harbor, taking in the lively atmosphere and beautiful views as the sun sets.

5 tips to find a great Grafton hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Grafton is during May, June, and August, when hotel prices tend to be more affordable. For a great value for money experience, it's recommended to stay for at least 2-3 days to fully enjoy the main attractions, such as the stadium, sports facility, and scenic bridge. This allows visitors to make the most of their trip while staying on a budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for affordable last-minute hotel deals in Grafton, consider checking the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com. You may discover great prices and discounts when booking today. To maximize your savings, enable email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com for updates on flash sales and special promotions. This way, you're more likely to snag the cheapest rates and take advantage of their price promise while enjoying your stay in Grafton.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to factors like the location, star rating, and season. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on hotel expenses in Grafton.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your holiday, keep your location in mind. Staying closer to major attractions or city centers can offer convenience, but it usually tends to be more expensive. For more affordable rates, consider hotels in less central areas or neighborhoods, striking a balance between cost and easy access to the sites you plan to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Book your next stay in Grafton and join Hotels.com’s One Key programme which allows members to earn and redeem rewards points for hotel bookings. Move through blue, silver, gold and platinum tiers and unlock benefits such as earning free nights, room upgrades, special discounts, and exclusive deals for members. Sign up now.

What to eat in Grafton

Here are some famous dishes in Grafton, Auckland, Auckland Region, New Zealand:

• Fish and Chips: A beloved Kiwi classic, fish and chips in Grafton is often enjoyed at the beach or during a casual outing. Freshly battered fish, typically snapper or hoki, is deep-fried to golden perfection and served with crispy fries. This dish embodies New Zealand’s coastal heritage and is often accompanied by tangy tartar sauce and a wedge of lemon, making it a perfect choice for a laid-back lunch.
• Pavlova: This iconic dessert is a must-try during your Grafton visit. With its crisp meringue shell and soft, fluffy interior, pavlova is topped with whipped cream and an array of fresh fruits like kiwifruit, strawberries, and passionfruit. This delightful sweet treat is often enjoyed during celebrations and gatherings, reflecting the local culture of hospitality.
• Meat Pie: A savory staple in New Zealand, the meat pie in Grafton is perfect for a quick meal on the go. Often filled with minced meat, gravy, and sometimes vegetables, these hand-held delights are a comfort food favorite and are commonly found in local bakeries, showcasing the country's baking tradition.

Best time to go to Grafton

Grafton experiences its lowest average temperature in July, at 53.6°F (12.0°C), while February is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 67.6°F (19.8°C). July is usually the wettest month. February, March, and September are the peak travel months in Grafton, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny to mostly cloudy, with light rainfall. On the other hand, June, October, and December tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.