Rutherford Hotel Nelson - A Heritage Hotel | City stay in Nelson | Book Now

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Key details

About the Hotel

Trafalgar Square, Nelson, New Zealand, 7001

Near the historic Old Town

Perfect

8.3

8.7

/10

3.8

4.1

Loved by guests

Comfortable room
Great location
Attentive staff
Excellent gym
Healthy options
Best housekeeping

"Spacious, light, comfortable rooms are the highlight of the Rutherford."

RT-Whanganui from New Zealand

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"Beds are arguably the most comfortable hotel beds ive slept on."

Hamish from New Zealand

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"Great windows and views."

Glenda from United States

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Rooms & Amenities

Rutherford Hotel Nelson offers a range of accommodations, including spacious double rooms, apartments with hot tubs, and suites with kitchenettes. Rooms include air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, minibars, and tea/coffee makers. Some feature sea or mountain views. Select rooms have private bathrooms with walk-in showers, bathrobes, and free toiletries. Apartments include washing machines, dishwashers, and dining areas.

Dining Options

The Oceano Panorama Restaurant serves an à la carte dinner menu with fresh local produce, including seafood and Nelson-grown fruits and vegetables. The Port o' Call Bar offers cocktails, regional wines, and whiskies, along with light evening meals. Guests can enjoy breakfast at Oceano with views of the surrounding area.

Leisure & Walks

The hotel is near the Centre of New Zealand track, starting at the Botanical Reserve. Guests can walk to Christ Church Cathedral or take the Maitai track for a swim in the Maitai River. Tahunanui Beach, a 10-minute drive away, is ideal for family outings. The Nelson region has over 40 walks within 16 km of the city.

Location & Access

The hotel is in central Nelson, a short walk from galleries, shops, and Christ Church Cathedral. Nearby landmarks include South Street Gallery (0.3 km), Melrose House (0.5 km), and Founders Heritage Park (2 km). The Centre of New Zealand is 2.5 km away. Nelson Airport is 10 km from the hotel.

Events & Services

Rutherford Hotel Nelson hosts conferences for up to 700 delegates and banquets for 450 guests. The hotel focuses on sustainability by reducing its carbon footprint. Staff handle incidents and complaints following standard procedures. The property is equipped for business and leisure travelers, with event spaces and dining options.

Must-do experiences

Visit the Nelson Market on Saturdays for fresh local produce.
Savor a Scoop of the famous gelato at The Sprig and Fern.
Explore the World of WearableArt Museum for a unique cultural twist.
Hike up to the Centre of New Zealand for stunning panoramic views.
Discover the hidden gems at the Suter Art Gallery, a true local treasure.

See hotel location on map

How it felt to stay here

Explorers, Not Tourists

“Able to charge back from selected local restaurants to your hotel room.”

Steven from AustraliaMay 2023

Perfect for Finding Friends

“Conversing with them made the stay that much more enjoyable, thank you ?”

Brigette from New ZealandMarch 2024

Rest from Kids

“A special shout out for Gerard, who went over and above to make sure that we had a lovely evening.”

Mandy O from New ZealandJanuary 2025

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Choose the Room

From cosy doubles to spacious family suites – all with flexible options, breakfast, and exclusive deals.

Premium King Room

2 persons

28 m²

1 King-size bed

Shower

Heating

room details

Premium Double

2 persons

28 m²

1 King-size bed

Shower

Heating

room details

Premium Accessible

2 persons

28 m²

1 King-size bed

Shower

Heating

room details

Triple Studio

2 persons

43 m²

2 Single beds or 1 Queen-size bed

Shower

Coffee machine

room details

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Check Dates & Room Rates

See what's available for your travel dates

Amenities

Thoughtfully designed amenities for a comfortable & memorable stay

General

No smoking on site
Free Wi-Fi
Parking
Safe deposit box
24-hour reception
Express check-in/ -out
No pets allowed
Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
Wheelchair access
24-hour security
Luggage storage
Lift
Currency exchange
Coffee shop
Smoke detectors
Electric vehicle charging station
Fire extinguishers
Key card access

Sports & Fitness

Fitness centre
Hiking
Cycling
Golf course

Guest Parking

Electric kettle
Dryer
Cookware/ Kitchen utensils

Services

Valet parking
Room service
Housekeeping
Laundry
Tours/Ticket assistance
Welcome drink

Dining

In-room breakfast
Restaurant
Snack bar
Bar/ Lounge area
Picnic area/ Tables
Packed lunches
Special diet menus

Business

Business centre
Meeting/ Banquet facilities
Fax/Photocopying

Children

Cots
Babysitting/Child services
Children's buffet

Facilities for people with disabilities

Toilet for disabled

Spa & Leisure

Rooftop pool
Seasonal outdoor pool
Sun loungers
Sun terrace
Sauna
Massage

Room features

Air conditioning
Heating
Mini-bar
Dressing area
Garden furniture
Tea and coffee facilities
Dining table
Ironing facilities

Bathroom

Washing machine
Free toiletries

Self-catering

Electric kettle
Dryer
Cookware/ Kitchen utensils

Media

Flat-screen TV
AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

Carpeted floor

Dining Onsite

At Rutherford Hotel Nelson, dining becomes a delightful experience set against the backdrop of stunning views and a relaxed atmosphere. Guests can start their day at the Oceano Panorama Restaurant before unwinding in the inviting Port o' Call Bar, each offering unique culinary experiences that highlight local flavors and cater to various dietary preferences.

Rutherford Hotel Nelson - A Heritage Hotel Restaurant photo

Oceano Restaurant

A la carte dining with a focus on local ingredients and flavors

Ambiance

Inviting and relaxed setting with panoramic views, perfect for soaking in the surrounding beauty

Key Offerings

Signature dishes available for dinner, along with vegetarian, gluten-free, and dairy-free options. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast while basking in morning sunlight.

Reservation

Recommended for dinner.

Dinner served from 17:00 - 21:30, daily; Breakfast hours vary.

Port o' Call Bar

Light meals and drinks with an emphasis on local beverages

Ambiance

Cozy and welcoming lounge, ideal for after-work relaxation or casual gatherings

Key Offerings

Extensive selection of cocktails, wines, and whiskies, alongside a menu for light evening meals.

Reservation

Not needed.

Open in the evening; hours vary.

Location

Trafalgar Square, Nelson, New Zealand, 7001

Map view

Trafalgar Square, Nelson, New Zealand, 7001

City landmarks

Garden

Queen's Gardens

970 m

Gallery

The Suter Art Gallery

1.0 km

Gallery

Wall To Wall Art Nelson

650 m

Landmark

Dance to the Music of Time

1.3 km

Gallery

Saligia

960 m

Landmark

Centre of New Zealand

2.5 km

Park

Founders Heritage Park

2.0 km

Landmark

Botanical Gardens

1.5 km

Landmark

Melrose House

680 m

Landmark

Fairfield House

900 m

Landmark

Anzac Park

720 m

Landmark

Southern Wilderness

650 m

Gallery

Quiet Dog Gallery

650 m

Landmark

Maitai Walkway

670 m

Landmark

Parker Gallery

710 m

Landmark

Rutherford Park

820 m

Landmark

Huangshi Garden

820 m

Landmark

Girlies Hole

1.3 km

Landmark

Centre of New Zealand Monument

2.5 km

Landmark

Helibike Nelson

1.5 km

Landmark

Neale Park

1.7 km

Nearby

Church

Christ Church Cathedral

250 m

Museum

Nelson Provincial Museum

320 m

Market

The Nelson Market

470 m

Gallery

South Street Gallery

80 m

123 Hardy St

Little Beehive Co-Op

330 m

Gallery

Red Art Gallery & Cafe

580 m

Gallery

ATELIER Studio

330 m

Mall

Morrison Square

430 m

Shop 8 Dowsons Arcade

Atkins Gallery

570 m

Restaurants

Port-O-Call Bar

10 m

27 Nile Street W Rutherford Hotel

Cod & Lobster Brasserie

240 m

300 Trafalgar Street

Ford's Restaurant and Bar

300 m

276 Trafalgar Street

East St

190 m

8 Church Street City Central

Nicola's Cantina

230 m

6 Church Street Across From Kush Coffee

The Vic Brewbar

290 m

281 Trafalgar Street

Golden Bell Thai Restaurant

370 m

104 Hardy Street

Tongtara Thai Restaurant

290 m

142 Hardy Street

Burger Culture

280 m

279 Trafalgar St

Lone Star

390 m

90 Hardy Street

Green Bamboo Vietnamese

320 m

126 Hardy Street

Explore Nelson

Christ Church Cathedral

4 minutes' walk

Iconic landmark known for its stunning architecture and historic significance, located just a few steps from the hotel.

Nelson Provincial Museum

4 minutes' walk

Offers insights into the region's history and culture, with engaging exhibits suitable for all ages.

The Suter Art Gallery

13 minutes' walk

Features a diverse collection of visual arts, plus regular exhibitions. Admission is free, providing cultural access.

The Nelson Market

6 minutes' walk

Vibrant market held on Saturdays, featuring local crafts, fresh produce, and live music, perfect for immersing in local culture.

Maitai Walkway

10 minutes' walk

Scenic walking trail ideal for casual strolls or brisk walks, offering beautiful views along the river.

Natureland Wildlife Trust

32 minutes' walk

Family-friendly wildlife park featuring native New Zealand species. Great for kids and animal lovers.

Caving Adventures

15 minutes' drive

Thrilling guided caving expeditions for adventure-seekers, with gear provided. Pre-booking is recommended.

Local Yoga Studios

10 minutes' walk

Relaxing yoga sessions offered at nearby studios, ideal for unwinding after a day of exploring.

Cod & Lobster Brasserie

3 minutes' walk

Casual dining spot famous for fresh seafood and local dishes. Reservations recommended, especially for dinner.

Nicola's Cantina

3 minutes' walk

Charming locale offering street-style Latin cuisine with vibrant flavors. Known for its vibrant atmosphere.

Port-O-Call Bar

1 minute' walk

Relaxed bar setting serving a range of local beers and snacks, perfect for unwinding after a day out.

Ford's Restaurant and Bar

4 minutes' walk

Contemporary restaurant with a diverse menu. Known for using local ingredients and a stylish ambiance.

Theatre Royal

5 minutes' walk

Historic theatre with regular performances ranging from plays to concerts. Check schedules for family-friendly shows.

The Freehouse

10 minutes' walk

Lively bar with live music events, renowned for craft brews and a welcoming atmosphere for all ages.

Founders Heritage Park

6 minutes' drive

An open-air museum with exhibits showcasing Nelson's history. A great option for families and history lovers.

The Boathouse

5 minutes' walk

Riverside venue offering live music in a relaxed setting. Perfect for enjoying local talent and a casual night out.

Getting around

City Centre

Nelson10 min · 800 m

Airports

Nelson Airport (NSN)14 min · 8.8 km

Woodbourne Airport (BHE)162 min · 107.7 km

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Property information and rules

Check-in

from 14:00-23:59

Check-out

until 10 am

Guest Parking

Private parking is possible on site at NZD 10 per day.

Internet

is available in for free.

Breakfast

You can start your day with a full breakfast, which costs NZD 34.50 per person per day.

Pets

Pets are not allowed.

Languages

English, German, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, Hungarian, Japanese, Chinese, Hindi, Afrikaans, Malayalam, PanjabiÂ / Punjabi, Tamil, Tagalog / Filipino

Year renovated:

2012

Number of floors:

Number of rooms:

111