Drifter Christchurch

The first thing you need to know about this hotel is that it’s not just a hotel. Drifter is an all-encompassing travel experience, combining all the best things we love about visiting a new place. Located in one of Christchurch’s key heritage buildings on Lichfield Street, it’s designed for the modern traveller looking to socialise, unwind and enjoy a surge of inspiration in a premium (yet pocket-friendly) environment. 

There are 95 rooms available, a mix of luxe private suites and premium shared rooms all destined to be front page material. Now, if the word ‘shared’ triggers nightmare European hostel experiences of your early 20s, hear us out. These serene and spacious rooms are fitted with designer bunk beds, privacy curtains, sleek and clean ensuite bathrooms and lockable storage.

In saying all that, a room key is not needed to be part of the Drifter community. The communal areas welcome visitors and locals to mingle together in cool and contemporary spaces. Strike a yoga pose in the Leisure Club, brainstorm with your team in the boardroom, soak up the perks of remote work in the study, get lost in a new story at the library or cinema, and lounge next to the firepit on the outdoor terrace. With a bar and diner coming soon, as well as an events calendar packed with exhibitions, wine tastings, pop-up markets and more, your travel itinerary is already planned for you.

Design undeniably plays a major role here. Every single corner has been intentionally and thoughtfully considered by the Auckland-based interior architecture and design studio, CTRL Space. The historical exterior is complemented with a modern yet timeless interior, where bold colours, retro geometric patterns, warm eco-friendly materials and handcrafted elements are beautifully intertwined throughout. Artist Beni Single was also invited to leave his mark on the space, with Matisse-inspired canvases and murals created as an ode to the Garden City.

Drifter is rewriting the hotel rulebook with a hybrid concept that layers accommodation with wellness, culture, food and drink, and social experiences. A vibrant and inclusive sanctuary that has it all within one building (while offering the best of Christchurch on its doorstep), it’s perfect for out-of-town dreamers as well as locals who need a night or two to drift away.