Accor is set to become New Zealand’s largest hotel group, following an announcement today that it will add four new properties to its stable by the end of 2011.
Taking its portfolio in New Zealand to 29 hotels, Accor has acquired Hyatt Auckland, as well as the hotel formerly known as Hotel So in Christchurch.
In addition to this, Auckland airport will next year welcome two Novotel and Formule 1 hotels.
Hyatt Regency Auckland, to be re-branded as Pullman Auckland from 20 January 2011, was the country’s first 5-star hotel and will look to build on the reputation that it has developed since opening in 1968.
The hotel, set to become the first Pullman hotel in New Zealand, has recently undergone a NZ$7 million refurbishment of all of its guest rooms, as well as an upgrade of some public areas and back-of-house facilities.
“The launch of a new international brand always provides impetus for a city’s tourism infrastructure,” Accor vice president, New Zealand Paul Richardson said.
“The Asia Pacific region is a key future market for growing New Zealand’s inbound tourism, and with Accor boasting the largest network of hotels in the region and with Pullman growing so rapidly, we will be able to play a major role in promoting Auckland as a destination for business, leisure and conference travellers.”
The property formerly known as Hotel So is to be re-launched as All Seasons Christchurch Cashel Street.
“It is an excellent hotel for the Christchurch market because it can cater for such a wide range of guests in a central city location,” Mr Richardson said. “
The new branding will help contribute to Christchurch’s tourism recovery since the earthquake disrupted the city in September and give impetus for 2011.”
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