The Shakespeare Hotel rates, Auckland

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Axel's take: 6.5/10

Central location and pub character, but tired rooms make this a compromise. a budget 3-star pub hotel in Auckland’s city centre, scored for what it is.

The Shakespeare is a budget 3-star pub hotel in a Victorian building, best treated as a simple city-centre base rather than a boutique escape. Its strongest selling point is walkability: Sky Tower, Queen Street and the waterfront are close. Expedia and Booking.com guests regularly praise the location and helpful staff, while the downstairs pub and restaurant add character and convenience. We'd consider it for a short, budget-minded stay if atmosphere matters more than polish.

The compromises go beyond dated decor. Recent reviews repeatedly mention small rooms, bathroom cleanliness and maintenance problems, including blocked showers; other guests report clean, comfortable stays. Street and pub noise can disturb sleep, and the hotel confirms there is no lift. We'd skip it for light sleepers, anyone unable to manage stairs, or travelers wanting reliably well-kept rooms.

• Best for: budget-minded city breaks; travelers who enjoy historic pubs; short stays without a car

• Watch out for: stairs to all rooms; no lift; street and pub noise; uneven bathroom cleanliness and maintenance

• Location: Walkable CBD setting near Sky Tower, Queen Street and the waterfront.

• Rooms: Small and dated; ensuite bathrooms, mini-fridges and tea-making facilities cover the basics.

• Cleanliness: Mixed reports, with recurring complaints about shower grime, mould and drainage.

• Service: Often friendly and helpful, but bar-based check-in and early luggage storage can be awkward.

• Amenities: Pub, restaurant, terrace, billiards and free Wi-Fi; no lift.

• Fees and surprises: Damage deposit required; parking costs extra, and Expedia lists no after-hours check-in.

Axel's opinion of The Shakespeare Hotel, from the hotel's website and recent guest reviews. Sources: Hotel website · Booking.com · Expedia · Tripadvisor. Reviewed Oct 22, 2026.

About The Shakespeare Hotel

• 3-star hotel
• 61 Albert Street, Auckland
• Amenities: Smoke-free property, Terrace, Express check-in, Outdoor furniture, No elevators, Reception desk, Non-smoking rooms, Room service, Fridge, Smoke Detector, TV, Shower/Bathtub
• City page: Hotels in Auckland

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