Cedar House, Gisborne: Historic Boutique Luxury
Cedar House, Gisborne
Location: 4 Clifford Street, Whataupoko, Gisborne
Distance from CBD: Approximately 5 to 10 minutes’ walk
Phone: 021 441 622
Website: www.cedarhouse.nz
Accommodation: Boutique guest rooms and self-contained houses
Facilities: Heated saltwater swimming pool, outdoor spa, continental breakfast, Wi-Fi and parking
Best for: Romantic weekends, heritage lovers, couples, special occasions and visitors who appreciate a little old-fashioned grandeur without sacrificing modern comforts.
Some Gisborne addresses have more stories than others.
And then there’s Cedar House.
Tucked away in the leafy streets of Whataupoko, just a short stroll from the centre of Gisborne, Cedar House is the sort of place that makes you wonder why anyone would willingly book an anonymous hotel room when they could stay somewhere with this much personality.
Built in the early 1900s, this grand Edwardian residence has witnessed more than a century of Gisborne life.
Originally built for the prominent Muir family, the property has reportedly served as a private girls’ school, an exclusive hotel and a restaurant.
Today, it has settled rather comfortably into its latest role as one of Gisborne’s most distinctive boutique accommodation experiences.
And frankly, the old girl is looking rather splendid.
Old-world elegance. Without the old-world inconveniences
Cedar House has something increasingly difficult to find in modern accommodation: genuine character.
Think high ceilings, generous proportions, beautiful period details and furnishings that feel carefully considered rather than ordered by the container-load.
The restoration respects the building’s Edwardian origins while introducing the comforts today’s travellers expect.
There are five individually styled guest rooms, including three premium rooms with ensuite bathrooms and two rooms with private bathrooms just across the hallway.
King beds, tasteful décor, air conditioning, Wi-Fi and Netflix help ensure that the nostalgia doesn’t extend to the practicalities.
Some rooms look towards the Waimata River, while others overlook the gardens and swimming pool.
The Waikanae suite even has a spa bath, ideal for anyone who believes a proper weekend away should involve doing considerably less than usual.
A swimming pool, a spa and absolutely no urgency
Outside, the Gisborne lifestyle takes over.
A heated saltwater swimming pool, outdoor spa and landscaped gardens provide an inviting excuse to abandon the day’s itinerary.
There are places to sit, space to relax and an atmosphere that encourages a wonderfully unproductive afternoon.
It’s easy to imagine returning from a morning exploring Gisborne, slipping into the pool and deciding that whatever was planned for the afternoon can probably wait.
For visitors arriving from larger cities, that relaxed pace is part of the attraction.
Gisborne has always been particularly good at reminding people that life doesn’t need to be conducted at motorway speed.
Cedar House seems to have understood the assignment.
Not everyone needs to share the mansion
For guests who prefer their own space, Cedar House also offers two self-contained, two-bedroom accommodation options.
The Black House provides a separate refurbished home with its own kitchen, while The Pool House offers a more independent stay with convenient access to the swimming pool and spa.
Both are situated on the Cedar House property, giving guests the opportunity to enjoy its facilities while retaining a little extra privacy.
It’s a particularly appealing arrangement for two couples travelling together or visitors planning a longer Gisborne escape.
Gisborne is practically on the doorstep.
One of Cedar House’s greatest luxuries isn’t actually inside the property.
It’s the location.
Clifford Street sits in an established residential neighbourhood, yet Gisborne’s cafés, restaurants, galleries, shops and harbour attractions are within comfortable walking distance.
That means visitors can enjoy a leisurely breakfast, wander into town for coffee, browse the independent shops along Gladstone Road, and perhaps find somewhere for a long lunch.
The Waimata River is close by, and Gisborne’s beaches are only a short drive away.
There is something particularly appealing about staying somewhere peaceful while having much of the city’s personality within easy reach.
And being able to walk home after dinner is a luxury that deserves more appreciation.
The little things matter.
Cedar House offers a self-service continental breakfast, along with tea, coffee and complimentary refreshments.
The accommodation has a more personal, residential feel than a conventional full-service hotel, with hosts Penny and Roger available to assist guests.
Guest reviews have been particularly encouraging, with strong feedback for cleanliness, facilities and location.
It’s worth knowing that breakfast is continental rather than a cooked restaurant-style offering, and housekeeping is available on request.
Those seeking a fully serviced luxury hotel experience should check the arrangements before booking.
But for travellers who value individuality, generous rooms and a relaxed atmosphere, that more independent style may be precisely the appeal.
Why Stay at Cedar House in Gisborne?
Cedar House isn’t simply somewhere to sleep.
It’s somewhere to slow down, appreciate a little history and experience a more elegant side of Gisborne.
Because sometimes the accommodation deserves to be part of the holiday, rather than just somewhere to leave your suitcase.
Ready to Stay?
