Welcome to Rutherford Hotel Nelson - A Heritage Hotel – Nelson

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From121US$ /night
Check-in
22Mar2026Select date
Check-out
23Mar2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

Trafalgar Square, Nelson, New Zealand, 7001
-
Steps from Christ Church Cathedral
Great
8.4
8.7
/10
3.9
4.0
/5

Location

Rutherford Hotel Nelson is strategically positioned in the Nelson city center, within walking distance to the picturesque Maitai River. The hotel is located close to significant attractions, such as the Nelson Market and the renowned Christ Church Cathedral. This central location provides easy access for exploring the natural beauty of the Abel Tasman National Park.

Rooms

The hotel offers 113 spacious rooms and suites, many of which feature stunning views of the Nelson Haven or the surrounding mountains. Each room includes amenities like a flat-screen TV, complimentary tea and coffee facilities, and premium bedding for a comfortable stay. The hotel also provides room options with private balconies for added outdoor enjoyment.

Dining

Rutherford Hotel Nelson houses the popular Radius Restaurant, where guests can enjoy a variety of New Zealand cuisine, made from locally sourced ingredients. Guests can also unwind in the hotel's bar offering a selection of wines and refreshing beverages. A breakfast buffet is available daily, catering to both local and international flavors.

Business Facilities

The hotel features a dedicated conference center, providing six versatile meeting rooms equipped with modern audio-visual technology. Ideal for corporate events, the conference center can accommodate up to 300 guests. Business travelers can enjoy a business center with printing and copying services available.

Events and Activities

Rutherford Hotel Nelson offers numerous event spaces, ideal for weddings and social gatherings, with customizable packages to suit various requirements. Guests can participate in local tours and activities, such as kayaking and hiking, through the hotel's concierge service. The surrounding area provides easy access to diverse outdoor pursuits, including mountain biking and art galleries.

Highlights

Location: Nelson city center, walking distance to attractions

Rooms: 113 spacious rooms with mountain views

Dining: Radius Restaurant with locally sourced cuisine

Business: Conference center with modern technology

Activities: Local tours through concierge service

Must-do experiences

  • Take a stroll at the nearby Nelson Marina for stunning sunset views.
  • Savor a famous Nelson scallop pie at the local favorite, The Styx.
  • Visit the Hodgson Gallery for exceptional local art and exhibitions.
  • Explore the immersive World of WearableArt & Classic Cars Museum.
  • Don't miss the Saturday Nelson Market for fresh produce and crafts.
View all

Select your room type

Choose from doubles, suites, or family rooms, many with breakfast, flexible cancellation, and promotional rates
Premium King Room
2 persons
305 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Heating
Premium Double
2 persons
305 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Heating
Triple Studio
2 persons
465 sq. feet 
2 Single beds or 1 Queen-size bed
Shower
Coffee machine
Quadruple Suite
2 persons
400 sq. feet 
3 Single beds
Shower
Heating
Click button to see more rooms
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Facilities

Boutique hotels design their amenities with your relaxation and unique travel experiences in mind
Facilities: Great
8.3/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Wi-Fi
  • On-site car park
  • Handicap 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

Room features

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

Bathroom

  • Bathtub
  • Washing machine
  • Free toiletries

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle
  • Dryer
  • Cookware/ Kitchen utensils

Media

  • Flat-screen TV
  • AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

  • Carpeted floor
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Dining Onsite

At Rutherford Hotel Nelson - A Heritage Hotel, dining options are thoughtfully curated to offer both relaxation and exceptional taste. Oceano Restaurant serves a select a la carte menu with stunning panoramic views, while the Port o' Call Bar invites guests to unwind with expertly crafted cocktails and a rich selection of spirits.
Rutherford Hotel Nelson - A Heritage Hotel Restaurant photo
Rutherford Hotel Nelson - A Heritage Hotel Restaurant photo

Oceano Restaurant

A la carte, featuring vegetarian, gluten-free, and dairy-free options
Ambiance
Bright and inviting with panoramic views, perfect for sunrise breakfasts and elegant dinners
Key Offerings
A diverse menu tailored to accommodate various dietary preferences; highlights include fresh local ingredients and an exquisite dining atmosphere
Reservation
Recommended
Breakfast and Dinner (17:00 - 21:30 daily)

Port o' Call Bar

Casual bar dining with a focus on light meals and refreshments
Ambiance
Relaxed and cozy, ideal for unwinding after a long day with a warm atmosphere
Key Offerings
An extensive selection of cocktails, wines, and whiskies; perfect for casual gatherings or a quiet drink
Reservation
Not needed
Open for light evening meals and drinks

Rutherford Hotel Nelson - A Heritage Hotel Location

Trafalgar Square, Nelson, New Zealand, 7001
Map view
Trafalgar Square, Nelson, New Zealand, 7001
Nearby
Church
Christ Church Cathedral
900 ft
Museum
Nelson Provincial Museum
1100 ft
Market
The Nelson Market
1600 ft
Gallery
South Street Gallery
300 ft
123 Hardy St
Little Beehive Co-Op
1100 ft
Gallery
Red Art Gallery & Cafe
2000 ft
Gallery
ATELIER Studio
1100 ft
Mall
Morrison Square
1500 ft
Shop 8 Dowsons Arcade
Atkins Gallery
1900 ft
Restaurants
Port-O-Call Bar
100 ft
27 Nile Street W Rutherford Hotel
Cod & Lobster Brasserie
800 ft
300 Trafalgar Street
Ford's Restaurant and Bar
1000 ft
276 Trafalgar Street
East St
700 ft
8 Church Street City Central
Nicola's Cantina
800 ft
6 Church Street Across From Kush Coffee
The Vic Brewbar
1000 ft
281 Trafalgar Street
Golden Bell Thai Restaurant
1300 ft
104 Hardy Street
Tongtara Thai Restaurant
1000 ft
142 Hardy Street
Burger Culture
1000 ft
279 Trafalgar St
Lone Star
1300 ft
90 Hardy Street
Green Bamboo Vietnamese
1100 ft
126 Hardy Street
Explore Nelson
Explore Nelson
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Christ Church Cathedral
Christ Church Cathedral
4 minutes' walk
A stunning Gothic-style cathedral known for its beautiful stained glass and peaceful gardens, offering guided tours.
Nelson Provincial Museum
Nelson Provincial Museum
4 minutes' walk
A captivating museum showcasing the history of Nelson with interactive exhibits, perfect for families and history buffs.
Queen's Gardens
Queen's Gardens
12 minutes' walk
A lovely landscaped park featuring exotic plants and statues, ideal for a relaxing stroll or a serene picnic.
The Suter Art Gallery
The Suter Art Gallery
13 minutes' walk
A vibrant art gallery hosting regional exhibitions, with a café and beautiful views of the Maitai River.
Maitai Walkway
10 minutes' walk
An inviting riverside path perfect for walking or biking, offering scenic views and a peaceful escape from the city.
Natureland Wildlife Trust
35 minutes' drive
A fun family-friendly wildlife park featuring native animals and interactive experiences; great for children and nature lovers.
Dance to the Music of Time
Dance to the Music of Time
15 minutes' walk
An engaging community event that celebrates music and arts, perfect for connecting with local culture and other visitors.
Cod & Lobster Brasserie
Cod & Lobster Brasserie
3 minutes' walk
A coastal-themed eatery serving fresh seafood and gourmet dishes with a relaxed atmosphere and river views.
East St
East St
3 minutes' walk
A vibrant casual dining spot offering a mix of international cuisines and local favorites in a cozy environment.
Ford's Restaurant and Bar
Ford's Restaurant and Bar
4 minutes' walk
A chic restaurant known for its modern Kiwi cuisine and extensive wine list, with a stylish setting and attentive service.
Port-O-Call Bar
Port-O-Call Bar
1 minute' walk
A lively bar with a friendly vibe, offering live music and themed nights that attract a diverse crowd.
Little Beehive Co-Op
Little Beehive Co-Op
5 minutes' walk
A community hub with various events, featuring local art, crafts, and occasional live music; great for all ages.
Getting around
City Centre
Nelson10 min  ·  2700 ft
Airports
Nelson Airport (NSN)14 min  ·  5.5 mi
Woodbourne Airport (BHE)162 min  ·  66.9 mi
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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
Wireless 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, Panjabi / Punjabi, Tamil, Tagalog / Filipino
Year renovated:
2012
Number of floors:
9
Number of rooms:
111

Reviews and Ratings

Real comments from travelers who have already stayed
Review score
Based on 364 verified reviews
8.4/10
Great
87%
Recommend
Breakfast
7.9/10
Cleanliness
8.9/10
Comfort
8.9/10
Facilities
8.3/10
Free Wi-Fi
8.6/10
Location
9.4/10
Paid Wi-Fi
10.0/10
Staff
8.9/10
Value for money
7.9/10
Pros
Central location
Excellent service
Immaculately clean room
Good value
Cons
Unhelpful staff
Facility air conditioning
Guest reviews
based on 513 reviews
4/5
based on 541 reviews
8.4/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.
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FAQs
About Rutherford Hotel Nelson - A Heritage Hotel
What are the check-in and check-out times at Rutherford Hotel Nelson - A Heritage Hotel?
Check-in is at 14:00 and check-out is by 10:00.
How far is Rutherford Hotel Nelson - A Heritage Hotel from the nearest airport?
The hotel is 5 km from Nelson Airport.
What dining options are available at Rutherford Hotel Nelson - A Heritage Hotel?
The hotel features Oceano Restaurant and the Port O' Call Bar for breakfast, dinner, bar meals, and drinks.
What amenities does Rutherford Hotel Nelson - A Heritage Hotel offer for recreation?
Guests can enjoy a seasonal outdoor rooftop pool and a fitness center.
What room amenities can guests expect at Rutherford Hotel Nelson - A Heritage Hotel?
Each room includes a flat-screen TV, minibar, air conditioning, and modern en suite bathroom with complimentary toiletries.
What nearby restaurants can guests visit from Rutherford Hotel Nelson - A Heritage Hotel?
Nearby restaurants include Cod & Lobster Brasserie, Oceano, Tongtara Thai Restaurant, and Ford's Restaurant and Bar, all within 0.5 km.
What services does Rutherford Hotel Nelson - A Heritage Hotel provide for business travelers?
The hotel offers a conference room, business center, and free Wi-Fi throughout the premises.
Is breakfast available at Rutherford Hotel Nelson - A Heritage Hotel?
Breakfast is available for an additional charge of 34 NZD.
What are some local attractions near Rutherford Hotel Nelson - A Heritage Hotel?
Nearby attractions include The Nelson Market (0.5 km), Nelson Provincial Museum (1 km), and the Botanical Reserve and Centre of New Zealand track.
What wellness options are available at Rutherford Hotel Nelson - A Heritage Hotel?
Guests can enjoy massage services and a sauna on-site.

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Check-in
22Mar2026Select date
Check-out
23Mar2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room