Capitalising on the popularity and explosive growth of its Ramada brand in the South Pacific, Wyndham Hotel Group has announced the signing of two new franchise agreements for Ramada hotels in New Zealand.
The agreements for Ramada Resort Reia Taipa, located in a coastal town in Doubtless Bay on New Zealand’s North Island, and Ramada Suites Albany, located in Auckland’s thriving North Shore, will bring the total number of Ramada properties in the country to eight and play an important role in the hotel group’s strategic efforts to grow the brand in New Zealand.
“According to a report issued by Colliers earlier this year, New Zealand is experiencing a travel industry boom with unprecedented growth and occupancy levels, which we are well-poised to capitalise on as we continue to expand in the country,” said Barry Robinson, Wyndham Hotel Group’s President and Managing Director, South East Asia and Pacific Rim.
“In addition to highly desirable destinations, both new Ramada resorts will provide excellent services and facilities, meeting the expectations of travellers who associate our world-acclaimed brands with quality accommodation options.”
The 32-room Ramada Resort Reia Taipa has undergone two years of extensive refurbishments by its owner, New-Zealand-based Taipa Management Limited, and will offer a combination of deluxe and superior studios, suites and apartments upon its opening later this month. Approximately 20 minutes from Kaitaia Airport, the beachfront resort will also feature an onsite restaurant, a bar, a spa, a swimming pool, a tennis court and small conference facilities.
“Taipa provides the perfect base to explore northern New Zealand, from Bay of Islands to Cape Reinga and Hokianga, and we are thrilled to introduce the world-renowned Ramada name to this region,” said Levin Da Costa of Taipa Management Limited. “We believe that leveraging the strength and reputation of the Ramada brand will attract business and leisure travellers from across the globe.”
The agreement for the 66-room Ramada Suites Albany builds on the strong relationship between Wyndham Hotel Group and New Zealand development company Safari Group, who recently announced the development Ramada Suites Queenstown Remarkables Park. Two other joint ventures between the companies, Ramada Suites Auckland Federal Street and Ramada Suites Christchurch City opened earlier this year.
Ramada Suites Albany will offer stylish accommodation neighbouring some of Auckland’s key attractions including Westfield Albany, North Harbour Stadium and Massey University. The development plan includes a mix of studio, one and two-bedroom short stay apartments as well as residential apartments and car parking. An onsite café, restaurant and bar are also planned to complement the hotel. Retail space will also be available.
“Ramada Suites Albany is the first new major hotel development on Auckland’s North Shore in many years and will serve a thriving business community and leisure market,” said Michael Osborne of Osborne Consulting, who assisted the parties to negotiate the franchise agreement.