Grand Central Serviced Apartments

The hotel's unique setting within a historic former Auckland main railway station building is its signature feature, offering guests an architecturally impressive and memorable stay. Guests consistently highlight the spacious rooms, comfortable beds, and excellent location directly adjacent to Spark Arena. The friendly staff also contribute positively to the overall experience. This accommodation is ideal for concert-goers due to its immediate proximity to the arena, as well as sightseers and business travelers who benefit from its central downtown location and accessibility. Families also find the large rooms and convenient amenities suitable for their needs. To enhance your stay, guests should be aware of potential train noise, especially if sensitive to sound, and it is advisable to confirm reception hours for a smooth check-in process.

Facilities & Amenities
Many rooms feature a well-equipped kitchenette including a microwave, fridge, sink, utensils, plates, and cups, providing convenience for both short and extended stays. Guests appreciate the provision of hangers, an ironing board with an iron, and complimentary tea, coffee, and hot chocolate. While some rooms are equipped with air conditioning or portable aircon units, others rely on fans or heaters for temperature control. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout, and rooms include a TV. The hotel also offers vending machines for quick snacks and drinks, and a communal laundry facility is accessible, though some guests noted that certain common areas might appear unkempt.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Most guests find their rooms clean and the beds very comfortable, often praising the high-quality linens and the generous size of the spacious rooms. Many appreciate the excellent water pressure in the showers and the presence of renovated bathrooms stocked with good quality towels and basic toiletries. However, some rooms are described as dated or tired, with occasional issues such as stained carpets, holes in walls, or mold around shower areas. Noise levels vary; while some rooms are reported as quiet, others experience significant train noise or disturbances from neighbors or concerts at the adjacent arena. Additionally, some guests noted persistent smells in corridors or within their rooms.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel features an on-site Indian restaurant, which receives frequent praise from guests for its delicious food and convenient location, particularly beneficial for those arriving late. While a cafe/bar is also mentioned within the premises, feedback suggests it can be relatively expensive and sometimes operates with a limited menu or is closed altogether. There is no consistent mention of breakfast services, indicating that guests typically seek morning dining options outside the hotel or utilize their in-room kitchenettes. The presence of the Indian restaurant remains a significant draw for guests seeking an accessible and flavorful meal without needing to leave the building.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's prime location is a major highlight, situated directly adjacent to Spark Arena, making it exceptionally convenient for event attendees. It is also very close to the Strand train station and offers easy walking distance to downtown Auckland, including key areas like Queen Street, the Quay area, and the harbor front. A supermarket is conveniently located just a five-minute walk away, further enhancing guest convenience. Parking is available directly in front of the main entrance for a fee, which many guests consider reasonably priced and highly advantageous given the central city setting.

Staff & Service
The staff generally receive high praise for being friendly, helpful, and accommodating, often going above and beyond to assist guests with various requests, including luggage handling and early check-ins. Many guests commend the quick check-in process and the overall attentive service provided. However, some guests reported initial difficulties upon arrival due to reception being occasionally unattended or challenging to locate. There are also recurring concerns regarding the hotel's policy on security deposits, with some guests experiencing delays or complications in receiving their refunds, which can be a source of frustration.

Additional Information
The hotel operates within a mixed-use building, accommodating both short-term guests and long-term residents, which creates a unique environment but can also lead to varied experiences. Guests should be aware that due to the building's age, some common areas, particularly corridors, may appear dated or have unpleasant smells. While the hotel strives to provide a comfortable stay, some reviews indicate that the property also houses individuals through social development programs, which has led to concerns about noise levels and a perceived lack of security for some guests. It is advisable for guests to manage expectations regarding the overall environment beyond their private rooms.