Wains Hotel Dunedin, a historical Dunedin building, will be relaunched as a five-star boutique hotel later this year. Over $3 million will be spent on refurbishments, covering all areas of the hotel.
Wains Hotel dates back to 1862. It is the oldest hotel in Dunedin and is listed as a Category I historic building by Heritage New Zealand. The hotel was started by Job Wain during the peak of the Central Otago gold rush. Business thrived, and when the Commercial Bank building next door closed, Wains expanded the hotel into that building.
Located in the central business district, the hotel is in a prime location to take advantage of Dunedin’s retail shops and entertainment options.
The old building is full of quirks and personality. Made from a blend of solid stone, extravagant carvings and luxurious materials, the hotel makes a stunning first impression on arrival. The new-look Wains Hotel will cater to those seeking a true boutique hotel experience.
In the 50 guestrooms across seven storeys, guests will be soaked in warm, classic luxury. The hotel’s design will embrace the building’s history as well as Dunedin’s links to Scotland, the early culture of the city and the gold rush era of the 1860’s.
“This is extremely exciting news for Wains Hotel and Dunedin City. This boutique level of hotel product has been long awaited, and we look forward to welcoming our guests to the refurbished hotel later this year”. Wains Hotel General Manager Sally Reiber said
Refurbishments are set for completion by the end of the year, bringing with it grandeur unseen before in Dunedin.
