For a long time, discussions had been floating around about Hilton making its way to Wellington. However, the timing was always wrong, or plans fell through, and the hotel never came to fruition.
That is until Sarin Investments signed a franchise agreement with Hilton Worldwide to bring the DoubleTree by Hilton brand to the capital city.
DoubleTree by Hilton Wellington opened mid-2018 and is housed in one of Wellington’s most iconic buildings, the T&G building, on the corner of Lambton Quay and Grey Street. Built back in 1928, the property has a lot of history and its heritage brings a certain charm with it.
All the building’s original architecture has been restored and retained. For instance, the Chicago style window casements have been kept, however, the windows were double glazed for soundproofing and insulation. Everything from the arches and ornamental designs, tall ceilings, marble pillars and walls, copper and brass elevators, to the brass doors have been restored.
As an upscale luxury hotel in a convenient location, the property targets corporate, government, and leisure guests.
“Wellington being a very strong corporate and government market, the hotel is rightly placed to offer a brand new and luxury accommodation option at the right price and more value,” said Vikas Yadav, business manager, DoubleTree by Hilton Wellington.
Being right in the heart of the CBD, the hotel is within walking distance of the city’s iconic cable car, the waterfront, and major government and corporate offices.
The team at the four-and-a-half-star hotel includes over 60 people and is supported by a centralised business team in Auckland.
As the hotel is part of the Hilton Honors loyalty programme, guests can check-in and select rooms using the Hilton Honors app. Guests are also able to use digital keys on their phone to unlock doors, making the check-in and check-out process fast and seamless.
“For the guests staying with us, we have the ‘Make It Right’ programme which encourages our guests to let us know if they have any concerns with our service or room so that we can make it right for them.”
On-site, the fusion menu at the restaurant Spring Kitchen offers guests an amalgamation of New Zealand produce, Asian flavours and modern gastronomic techniques.
In terms of sustainability, the hotel participates in a programme called Light Stay where all utilities, energy and water consumption is monitored to reduce the carbon footprint wherever possible.
“Looking ahead, our plan for the hotel is to provide exceptional service and value to our guests. It is a brand-new hotel with a lot of potential. Currently, we are on the top of the leaderboard for review scores and will try our best to maintain the spot.”
