SpiceNews can exclusively reveal Sofitel Queenstown Hotel and Spa has commenced multi-million dollar upgrade and extension of the property, further enhancing its MICE market offering.

Sofitel Queenstown is currently undergoing
a NZ$2 million revamp

The two-stage project includes the construction of a new entry, foyer, reception, business centre and ground floor meeting room, as well as a French themed café. This work is scheduled for completion by mid-June and stage one alone will see an investment of over NZD$2 million.

Stage two of the project will involve the building of a new bar, private club lounge and designer gymnasium.

The multi-million dollar injection into the Queenstown hotel sector follows the purchase of the hotel and the complex’s retail space by established property developer, Graham Wilkinson.

“Queenstown’s tourism and hospitality sector has been badly affected in the past few years by failed or delayed projects, but I believe our commitment to upgrading and extending the Sofitel’s facilities will give the destination a much-needed vote of confidence,” said Wilkinson.

“Queenstown is already showing signs of recovery after the affects of the global financial crisis curtailed business in 2009, and we believe the timing of this new investment is ideal.

“Forward bookings for the ski season are looking very encouraging, and the new project will significantly boost the hotel’s conference and incentives capability, a market that is ideally suited for Queenstown,” he said.

Wilkinson said that the current work would have minimal impact on guests and would be completed prior to the peak ski season.