Hilton Hotels & Resorts last week marked its entry into New Zealand’s South Island with the opening of Hilton Queenstown and the boutique Kawarau Hotel, managed by Hilton.
“We identified Queenstown as a strategically significant location for Hilton Worldwide and feel this project represents a development of the highest quality and world-class design. In addition to our award winning properties in key gateway cities such as Auckland and Taupo, this development will form an essential part of our growing network of hotels in New Zealand,” said Martin Rinck, area president, Hilton Worldwide, Asia Pacific.
The newly-built properties will be two of the most anticipated hotel openings in New Zealand this year. The exceptionally designed hotels are the only ones in Queenstown positioned directly on the shores of Lake Wakatipu. Both Hilton Queenstown and Kawarau Hotel managed by Hilton deliver glorious views of the lake or surrounding mountains, including the landmark The Remarkables Mountain Range. Each Hilton Queenstown guestroom includes Schist fireplaces, floor-to-ceiling window, a separate lounge area and private balcony or deck. There are 12 Relaxation Rooms featuring hot tubs on private lakefront decks, and 18 one bedroom Suites. Pieces of art by New Zealand artists on display throughout the hotel evoke the spirit of local culture.
Kawarau Village & The Remarkables from Lake Wakatipu.
Hilton Queenstown offers four dining options; Signature restaurant the Wakatipu Grill, overlooking the lake and helmed by renowned Chef Peter Thornley features the drama of an open kitchen and rotisserie, two magnificent circular fireplaces and outdoor fire pit. Cru Wine Bar & Lounge is an iconic destination for après-ski or an intimate evening. Beyond the hotel, Kawarau Village boasts restaurants, cafes, bars and specialty stores at your doorstep and is where you will find the hotel’s The Lake Counter (specialty grocer, café and deli) and Stacks Pub.
”The expansion of our brand and continued growth of Hilton Worldwide in Australasia now brings a world class Hilton hotel and our innovative eforea: spa at Hilton concept to vacationers exploring New Zealand’s South Island. We continue to set the standard through thoughtful design, signature amenities and our authentic Hilton hospitality,” said Dave Horton, global head, Hilton Hotels & Resorts.
Part of the central Otago region, Queenstown is known for its majestic alpine setting and is recognized as one of New Zealand’s premier domestic and international leisure destinations. A center for adventure tourism, it boasts a vibrant nightlife and an exciting food and wine scene. Queenstown is also rapidly gaining popularity as a destination for luxury travelers and honeymooners. Four world-class golf courses and five ski fields are in close proximity.
General manager Hilton Queenstown, Kawarau Hotel Managed by Hilton, and the Kawarau Village, Marlene Poynder, said: “Our properties’ incredible location in the Kawarau Village will add a new and exciting dimension to the South Island hotel offering. The irresistible style, sophistication and comfort of Hilton combined with the iconic beauty of Queenstown is unsurpassable.”
The Hilton Queenstown offers meeting and event facilities including eight conference rooms, catering for up to 230, while the Kawarau Hotel offers a cinema room for up to 10 and The Milford conference and meeting room for up to 150 guests.
