Eichardt's Private Hotel

The story of Eichardt’s Private Hotel begins before Queenstown was a town, on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, where the very first settler buildings rose in the early 1860s. In 1859, Welsh‑born explorer William Gilbert Rees and fellow pioneer Nicholas von Tunzelmann arrived to survey pastoral land, and in 1860–61, Rees built a homestead and wool shed on what is now the hotel’s site. The discovery of gold in the Shotover River in 1862 transformed the quiet lakeshore into a bustling field of prospectors and traders. Seeing the opportunity, Rees converted his wool shed into a hotel called the Queen’s Arms, one of the first places of lodging in Queenstown during the gold rush.

In 1866, Rees took on partner Albert Eichardt, who became sole proprietor by 1869 and renamed the property Eichardt’s Queen’s Arms Hotel, later simplified to Eichardt’s. Albert’s wife, Julia Eichardt, was a central figure in the hotel’s evolution. Known for her hospitality, business skills, and generosity to the local community, she steered the hotel through hard times and introduced innovations such as early electrical power for the building. Her death in 1892 was marked with deep local respect.

Over the decades, the hotel adapted as Queenstown shifted from mining outpost to destination town. It weathered floods and economic ups and downs and has been restored to honor its heritage while serving modern travellers. Eichardt’s is recognised as a Category Two historic place by Heritage New Zealand, celebrating more than 160 years on the lakefront.

Eichardt’s Private Hotel is a visually striking heritage building right on the shores of Lake Wakatipu with a strong architectural presence that reflects its long history and evolution. Originally dating from the gold rush era of the 1860s, the hotel’s façade and structure carry the simplicity and charm of that period, while its ongoing restorations and adaptations have respected its heritage significance as a Category Two historic place listed with Heritage New Zealand.

The building’s street presentation and lakefront setting make it a local landmark in Queenstown, with textured stonework and classic proportions. The historic core has been sensitively preserved even as the property expanded and modernised over time. Floor‑to‑ceiling windows and balconies are key design elements that frame the surrounding alpine vistas and lake views, reinforcing a strong connection between the architecture and the dramatic natural landscape beyond.

The hotel offers a variety of luxurious places to stay, each designed with care and style. The Penthouse sits atop the property with sweeping views and bespoke design touches. There are Lake View and Heritage Suites within the original building, each unique yet unified by understated elegance. The Gold Vault Suite repurposes a space once used to hold gold, now transformed into an intimate, characterful suite. For longer stays or groups, Earl St by Eichardt’s and The Residence by Eichardt’s provide beautifully appointed private homes near the hotel with lake and mountain vistas, combined with Eichardt’s signature service and charm.

The Grille

Perched right on the edge of Lake Wakatipu and overlooking Queenstown’s lively streets, The Grille is a must-visit spot for both locals and travelers. The space feels modern and relaxed, with floor-to-ceiling windows that let in light and frame the stunning lake views. The menu highlights the best of New Zealand’s seasonal produce, from creamy seafood chowder and perfectly cooked steaks to gourmet burgers that never disappoint. Whether it’s a casual lunch, a romantic dinner, or a special celebration, The Grille caters to every occasion. Pair your meal with a local wine or a craft cocktail, and soak in the energetic atmosphere. Locally sourced, free-range, and home-grown ingredients take center stage, bringing the flavors of Central Otago and Southland to your plate.

Eichardt’s Bar

Operating since 1871, Eichardt’s Bar is one of Queenstown’s long-standing social spots, known for its intimate, fireside setting. The space feels warm and inviting, with plush seating and a central fireplace. Built on the site of William Rees’ original woolshed, the bar carries a strong sense of history, tracing back to the early gold rush days when the area first came to life.

The drinks menu focuses on classic cocktail craftsmanship, with bartenders preparing infusions and garnishes in-house. Alongside, you’ll find a small tapas-style menu inspired by local produce, with ingredients sourced from nearby farms and regions like Central Otago. It’s a relaxed yet polished space, popular with both locals and visitors, and works best as a walk-in spot for a casual drink or light bite.

No.5 Church Lane

No.5 Church Lane is a relaxed Italian spot that keeps things simple and satisfying. The menu leans into the kind of food you actually feel like eating on a night out, from handmade pastas to generous plates made for sharing, along with desserts that feel a little indulgent in the best way. While the inspiration is Italian, the approach is easygoing and not strictly traditional. Flavors feel familiar and comforting. The space itself has a warm, welcoming feel, making it an easy choice for a laid-back evening.

Eichardt’s Private Hotel offers a setting that naturally lends itself to weddings. Right by Lake Wakatipu, the backdrop of mountains and water adds something special to the day without needing much extra. The team handles both small, intimate gatherings and slightly larger celebrations, helping with the details so everything runs smoothly.

For ceremonies, couples can choose between the Penthouse, which comes with a private terrace and wide-open views, or The Parlour, a more intimate space within the heritage building. Receptions follow a similar approach, with options that suit smaller groups, including the Penthouse for up to 40 guests or even a celebration aboard the luxury yacht Pacific Jemm for something a little different.

Accommodation is spread across suites, apartments, and private residences, making it easy for guests to stay close. The team can also assist with group bookings, activities, and transport, so everything around the wedding feels easy and well-organized.

Cultural and Outdoor Experiences

At Eichardt’s Private Hotel, the experience begins right within the property. The on-site Well Spa offers a restorative space with private treatment rooms, including one designed for couples. Treatments focus on relaxation and recovery, especially helpful after long journeys, using New Zealand ingredients like Manuka honey. From full body scrubs and facials to tailored massages and spa packages, it’s an easy way to slow down and recharge without stepping out.

Beyond the hotel, Queenstown offers plenty to explore at your own pace. You can step aboard the Pacific Jemm for a relaxed cruise across Lake Wakatipu, or take a scenic helicopter flight over the Southern Alps for a completely different perspective. For something more adventurous, there’s AJ Hackett Bungy, tandem paragliding, or a ride up the Skyline Gondola for sweeping views over the town. Golf courses nearby offer a quieter option, while guided tours can take you to Gibbston Valley, Arrowtown, Glenorchy, or Cardrona. The team can help arrange everything, keeping plans simple and flexible.

Beyond weddings, Eichardt’s Private Hotel also hosts corporate events and private gatherings. The property works as a multi-venue space, accommodating everything from small team retreats to larger events, with flexible setups for seated or standing functions and the ability to host groups of varying sizes. For corporate events, the hotel offers a mix of meeting spaces, dining venues, and accommodation, making it easy to plan everything in one place. The Parlour is often used for meetings or working lunches, while other spaces can host presentations, networking events, or team dinners.

Catering ranges from cocktails and canapés to full sit-down meals, depending on the format. Private and social gatherings feel more personal, with spaces like The Parlour, The Penthouse, or private dining areas at The Grille offering different atmospheres. These can host intimate dinners, celebrations, or small events. The team helps tailor each gathering, so whether it’s a quiet celebration or something more lively, the experience feels easy and thoughtfully arranged.