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From88US$ /night
Check-in
04Mar2026Select date
Check-out
05Mar2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

State Highway 8, Omarama, New Zealand
-
Close to the Omarama Sheep Statue
Nice
6.9
7.8
/10
2.7
3.6
/5

Location

Distinction Heritage Gateway Hotel is situated at the crossroads of the Waitaki District and Mackenzie Region in Omarama. This strategically located hotel serves as an excellent base for exploring notable attractions like the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve and the stunning Clay Cliffs. Outdoor enthusiasts can easily access renowned walking and cycling trails including the Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail.

Dining

The hotel's Heritage Gateway Restaurant & Garden Bar offers authentic New Zealand cuisine for breakfast and dinner, with BBQ lunch available for groups on request. Seating for up to 125 guests allows for both intimate dining and larger functions while comprising a relaxed garden atmosphere. Diners can savor seasonal dishes and a variety of gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options.

Rooms

Offering 98 well-appointed rooms, the hotel includes family suites with cooking facilities and superior rooms equipped with balconies showcasing breathtaking mountain views. All accommodations feature electric blankets, refrigerators, flat-screen TVs, and ensuite bathrooms with heated towel rails. Complimentary off-street parking ensures convenience for every guest during their stay.

Wellness

The hotel is conveniently located near Hot Tubs Omarama, which offers sustainably designed hot tubs filled with fresh mountain water within a serene environment. This nearby attraction provides an opportunity for relaxation after a day of outdoor activities. Guests can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding nature while unwinding in their private hot tub.

Activities

Omarama is a prime destination for skiing and snowboarding, with well-known slopes situated within a short driving distance from the hotel. Guests can explore the Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail or venture to the notable Elephant Rocks, a significant natural formation in the region. For those seeking adventure, the hotel positions visitors close to skiing, hiking, and biking experiences.

Highlights

Location: At the crossroads of Waitaki District and Mackenzie Region .

Dining: Heritage Gateway Restaurant & Garden Bar serving authentic NZ cuisine .

Rooms: 98 modern and comfortable rooms .

Wellness: Nearby Hot Tubs Omarama with fresh mountain water .

Activities: Close to skiing and the Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail .

“This country-style hotel serves as a practical base for exploring the Mackenzie region, placing guests at the junction of key highways and near Aoraki/Mount Cook. On-site dining and family-friendly suites add convenience. While some operational aspects could use polish, the location is ideal for active travelers focused on outdoor pursuits.”
Hotel logo
James DavidEditor-in-Chief at Tohotel
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Select your room type

Distinction Heritage Gateway Hotel offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
Standard Hotel Room
2 persons
240 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Heating
Superior Room
2 persons
325 sq. feet 
1 Double bed
Shower
Heating
Superior Hotel Room Balcony
2 persons
325 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Heating
Standard Triple Room
2 persons
240 sq. feet 
3 Single beds
Shower
Heating
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Price and Room Availability Calendar

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Facilities

Distinction Heritage Gateway Hotel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities: Nice
6.9/10Review score

General

  • Non-smoking rooms
  • Wi-Fi
  • Free parking
  • No pets allowed
  • Rooms/ Facilities for disabled

Sports & Fitness

  • Hiking
  • Golf course

Guest Parking

  • Electric kettle

Services

  • Laundry
  • Happy hour

Dining

  • Restaurant
  • Bar/ Lounge area

Business

  • Fax/Photocopying

Children

  • Cots

Spa & Leisure

  • Garden area

Room features

  • Sitting area
  • Tea and coffee facilities
  • Dining table

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle

Bedroom

  • Electric blankets

Media

  • Flat-screen TV
  • AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

  • Carpeted floor
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Dining Onsite

At the Distinction Heritage Gateway Hotel, guests will discover a delightful range of dining experiences rooted in local flavors, all set against the stunning backdrop of mountain vistas. From a celebrated onsite restaurant to a tranquil garden bar, each venue promises to satisfy both the palate and the spirit of adventure.
Distinction Heritage Gateway Hotel Omarama Restaurant photo
Distinction Heritage Gateway Hotel Omarama Restaurant photo
Distinction Heritage Gateway Hotel Omarama Restaurant photo

Restaurant #1

Local
Ambiance
A cozy dining space popular among both hotel guests and local patrons, offering an inviting atmosphere.
Key Offerings
This restaurant specializes in local dishes, highlighting the rich culinary heritage of the region and providing a comfortable setting to relish delightful meals.
Reservation
Recommended
Hours vary.

Omarama Garden Bar

Casual Bar Menu
Ambiance
Set amidst expansive lawns, this garden bar enables guests to unwind in a relaxed atmosphere while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding mountain ranges.
Key Offerings
Ideal for enjoying refreshing beverages and light snacks, the bar ensures a serene environment to soak in the natural beauty after a day of exploration.
Reservation
Not needed
Hours vary.

Distinction Heritage Gateway Hotel Location

State Highway 8, Omarama, New Zealand
Map view
State Highway 8, Omarama, New Zealand
Nearby
Ladybird Hill Vineyard
1200 ft
Restaurants
Merino Country Cafe & Gifts
1500 ft
7 Chain Hills Highway
Explore Omarama
Explore Omarama
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Omarama Sheep Statue
10 minutes' walk
The iconic Omarama Sheep Statue celebrates the region's sheep farming heritage and is perfect for a quick photo op.
Ladybird Hill Vineyard
5 minutes' walk
A local vineyard offering wine tastings amidst scenic views. Pair your visit with a delightful cheese platter.
Quailburn Woolshed
10 minutes' walk
An authentic woolshed showcasing the area's sheep farming practices. Great for learning about local traditions.
Hot Tubs Omarama
5 minutes' drive
Relax in private hot tubs with stunning mountain views. Ideal for unwinding after a day of adventure.
Hiking at Clay Cliffs
10 minutes' drive
Thrill-seekers can hike the unique clay formations of Clay Cliffs for stunning views and photo opportunities.
Wellness at Hot Tubs Omarama
5 minutes' drive
Recharge and relax in hot tubs under the stars, a perfect serene experience after outdoor activities.
Merino Country Cafe & Gifts
6 minutes' walk
Offering hearty local dishes with a cozy atmosphere. Don't miss their famous homemade pies and coffee.
Ladybird Hill Vineyard
5 minutes' walk
Enjoy fine local wines and a selection of gourmet bites in a tranquil vineyard setting with stunning views.
Omarama Cinema
5 minutes' drive
A local cinema featuring the latest films, ideal for family outings or a fun night out after dinner.
Live Music at the Local Pub
5 minutes' walk
Experience the local music scene with weekly sessions showcasing regional talent, perfect for relaxed evenings.
Getting around
City Centre
Omarama3 min  ·  700 ft
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 14:00-22:30
Check-out
from 07:00-10:00
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in for free.
Breakfast
The hotel offers a full breakfast at the price of NZD 33 per person per day. 
Children & extra beds
There are no extra beds provided in a room. 
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Number of rooms:
119

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about Distinction Heritage Gateway Hotel from previous guests about their experience.
Review score
Based on 238 verified reviews
6.9/10
Nice
60%
Recommend
Breakfast
6.9/10
Cleanliness
7.7/10
Comfort
7.5/10
Facilities
6.9/10
Free Wi-Fi
7.3/10
Location
8.0/10
Paid Wi-Fi
6.9/10
Staff
7.8/10
Value for money
6.7/10
Pros
Great location
Comfortable bed
Excellent staff
Cons
Unclean rooms
Outdated motel
Poor maintenance
Guest reviews
based on 576 reviews
6.9/10
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.
Open reviews
Questions of the users
About Distinction Heritage Gateway Hotel
Is the double bed in the rooms a large size or standard?
15 January 2024
The double bed in the room is a queen size.
Do standard rooms come with a bath, a shower, or both amenities?
22 February 2024
Most standard rooms feature a shower over the bath. A special request can be made during booking to prefer either option.
Is vaccination proof necessary to stay or dine at the hotel?
10 March 2024
Yes, proof of vaccination is required for entry into the hotel and restaurant.
Are hairdryers available in the hotel rooms?
30 January 2024
Each room is equipped with a hairdryer for guest convenience.
What time does the restaurant close for dinner?
8 February 2024
The restaurant operates for dinner from 6 PM to 8 PM.
Will the restaurant be open during my stay in early February?
12 February 2024
While it is anticipated that the restaurant will be open, exact availability cannot be guaranteed at this moment.
Can confirmation be provided that all rooms include a bathroom?
11 March 2024
Yes, all rooms come with private bathrooms.
Are there utensils such as cutlery and bowls available in the rooms?
18 April 2024
No, the rooms do not include cutlery and bowls.
Are there family-friendly accommodation options suitable for two adults and two children?
4 February 2024
Yes, there are larger units available, although they are often in high demand.
Are there alternative dining options nearby if the restaurant is closed?
20 February 2024
If the restaurant is not open, there is a bar on-site that offers platters, as well as a pub located opposite the hotel.
What is the cancellation policy for bookings?
5 April 2024
There are currently no charges for cancellations.
Is breakfast offered at the hotel, and are affordable dining options available?
15 March 2024
Breakfast is not served at the hotel right now; however, local cafes in town provide a variety of options at different price points.
How can I change an existing booking to a different date?
29 January 2024
Please provide the confirmation number to assist in tracking your booking; the hotel currently has availability on the requested date.
Is there availability for an upstairs room upon request?
27 February 2024
To request an upstairs room, please mention it in your booking notes or contact the reservations team directly.
Is the restaurant currently open for dinner service?
12 February 2024
The restaurant is not open for dinner this month but is scheduled to reopen on 5 September, subject to occupancy.
Where can I enjoy breathtaking views during my stay?
12 March 2024
Many areas around the hotel present stunning views, particularly the garden bar and the balconies available in some superior rooms.

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