Hulbert House - Boutique Lodge

Hulbert House, a boutique lodge in a Victorian villa in Queenstown

Hulbert House is a boutique accommodation located in Queenstown, New Zealand, occupying a restored 1887 Victorian villa. The house, protected by a New Zealand Historic Places covenant, presents itself as an eight-room property designed for personalised attention and an intimate atmosphere. Its location, a short walk from central Queenstown, provides access to restaurants, shops and the lake, while maintaining the tranquillity of a hillside with views over Lake Wakatipu and the peaks of the Southern Alps.

Rooms and spaces

The property has eight rooms, each with its own name and distinctive character. The offering includes the Firth, described as the grand room and an example of Victorian grandeur; three premium lake view rooms; and the O’Sullivan Studio, a studio with direct garden access and a well-appointed kitchenette, aimed at those seeking greater independence. The property also offers the option of booking the entire house for intimate gatherings or special occasions. The room names pay tribute to historical figures linked to the property, such as Philip Burbage Boult, who was granted the land in 1876, or Horatio Nelson Firth, whose family lived in the house between 1889 and 1901.

Services and facilities

The stay includes evening canapés and drinks, all-day baked treats and Harney & Sons tea. Facilities include a lounge with a fireplace, a verandah with views, a garden and a new ‘Palm House’ built in the former rear courtyard, which incorporates the original service wing and a full-height chimney breast with custom-made tiles. The interior design, by Neil McLachlan, combines period details with contemporary elements, such as English wallpapers, custom-milled carpets, French antiques and chandeliers.

Experiences and seasonal offers

The website describes experiences and offers linked to different seasons. In April, the property hosts British designer Brando Posocco, of NEBBIA, for the installation of his ‘1,000 Year Bench’ in Jardine Park. In autumn, a three-night stay includes a professional photoshoot among the autumn colours. In July, the ‘Ski & Après Weekend’ combines skiing at Coronet Peak or The Remarkables with a return for wine and canapés. In August, for Winter Pride, a two-night stay includes a complimentary shuttle transfer to the mountain of your choice and a Pride gift in the room.

Surroundings and activities

Hulbert House’s location allows guests to explore Queenstown and its surroundings, ski in the nearby mountains or walk along the lake. The property presents itself as a starting point for discovering the area and returning afterwards to a peaceful setting with views over the lake and the city lights. The house welcomes solo travellers, couples and groups, and offers privacy, comfort and tranquillity in one of Queenstown’s most distinctive historic buildings.

History and conservation

The property dates from 1887 and is protected by a New Zealand Historic Places covenant, ensuring the preservation of its historical significance. The restoration and interior design have maintained Victorian period details while incorporating modern comforts. The history of the house is linked to figures such as Horatio Nelson Firth, whose family lived there until 1901, when Firth was imprisoned for embezzlement, an episode recounted in the property’s narrative.

Location and contact

Ballarat Street, Queenstown 9300 New Zealand · Phone: +64 3 442 8767 68