SO/ Auckland Receives Top Honour

SO/

Auckland hotel SO/ Auckland has achieved QualMark Gold accreditation status, a reflection of its sustainable tourism business criteria.

SO/ Auckland has announced it has been recognised with a prestigious QualMark Gold accreditation under the Sustainable Tourism Business criteria.  

Gold is the highest level of tourism destination accreditation by QualMark, a rating system established to celebrate  excellence in service and sustainability.  

A business with gold status sees that “the delivery of exceptional customer experiences (is) an integral part of  everything they do.” Source: QualMark.  

The qualification was awarded in December 2024, after a thorough evaluation process. The hotel’s elimination of  single-use plastic, measures to reduce food waste and overall footprint on the environment were key drivers in the  audit.  

“It’s incredible to step into the year 2025 with something that reflects our commitment to people and the planet,”  shared Zac Lumsden, SO/ Auckland’s General Manager. Alongside environmental sustainability, Gold hotels are  assessed on the safety of guests, quality of rooms and facilities, excellence in service and robust brand standards.  

“For us it’s about the guest—we’re thrilled that our guests are able to book a stay with confidence and know that  they’re stay among the best. We’re proud to stand for excellence in New Zealand and be part of the fabric  of Qualmark’s fellow five-star, gold-standard properties.”  

As the only Ennismore hotel currently open in Oceania, SO/ Auckland’s Gold Level certification comes with a sense of  pride.

“Luxury lifestyle hotels are on the rise in our region—and we see our Qualmark Gold as an example of how  sustainability is integral to luxury in New Zealand and the region. This gold award also paves the way for  future properties in our collection to continue this dedication.” 

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