Accor’s MGallery by Sofitel brand is expanding in New Zealand with The Hotel Grand Windsor and Eden Crescent Hotel Auckland.
The company has entered into a franchise agreement for the Hotel Grand Windsor in Auckland, effective October 2017, and also for the Eden Crescent Hotel Auckland which will open in late 2018.
The Hotel Grand Windsor in Auckland will join the group’s upscale MGallery by Sofitel brand, renowned for its unique interior design and personalised guest service.
Located on Queen Street in the heart of Auckland’s luxury boutique neighbourhood, the heritage-listed hotel, which is owned by CP Group and managed by its in-house hotel chain CPG Hotels, is currently undergoing extensive works. The renovations will highlight the property’s original 1920s art-deco features and deliver a new level of sophistication to guests.
The design of the boutique property’s refurbished 69 guest rooms and 10 suites, spanning across eight levels, are inspired by Wallis Simpson, the Duchess of Windsor’s famous jewellery collection. Each will reflect one of four signature gemstone colours including emerald, aquamarine, amethyst and tourmaline. Once complete, the hotel will also feature a restaurant, lobby lounge, bar, wellness centre and meeting facilities, in addition to the guest rooms whose refurbishment were completed in June 2017.
AccorHotels Chief Operating Officer Pacific, Simon McGrath, said the hotel would be a unique addition to the MGallery by Sofitel offering in New Zealand.
“We are delighted to welcome the Hotel Grand Windsor to our portfolio. Auckland is a thriving city, which particularly appeals to the leisure market who are calling for unique experiences with a focus on style,” he said.
“Through the MGallery by Sofitel brand AccorHotels offers guests accommodation and dining experiences that bring to life the history of their surrounds. The Hotel Grand Windsor in Auckland is no exception, and the building itself is particularly rich in history dating back to 1928.
“The hotel’s new MGallery by Sofitel signature will include memorable features such as high tea and other dishes with a twist in celebration of the bygone era in which the hotel was created,” he said.
Eden Crescent Hotel Auckland will open in late 2018 as the third MGallery by Sofitel in New Zealand.
Refurbishment will commence at the hotel shortly. Once complete the 91 room boutique property, which is owned by CP Group and will be managed by its in-house hotel chain CPG Hotels, will be equipped with all of the luxurious and unique features and services that guests have come to know and love from the MGallery by Sofitel brand.
Eden Crescent Hotel Auckland was constructed in 1860 and operated as the Royal Hotel, well known for its elegance and style. What remains today is the charming seven storey extension to the Royal Hotel built in 1912, by then known as the Cargen Hotel, which welcomed guests up until 1950. This historic gem will soon be ready to welcome guests once again in its next chapter.
The hotel will appeal to the leisure market with facilities designed for relaxation and rejuvenation such as a spa, swimming pool and fitness centre. Corporate guests will be able to take advantage of modern and functional guest rooms and meeting rooms filled with character. Plus, the hotel will also feature a concept restaurant, with details to be revealed shortly.
McGrath said that guests are looking for luxurious experiences, which allow them to experience their destination in a real way.
“We are pleased to announce the upcoming opening of Eden Crescent Hotel Auckland MGallery by Sofitel. New Zealand is a rich and in demand destination, complete with stunning landscapes, vibrant culture and an interesting history,” he said.
“This MGallery by Sofitel property will allow us to showcase Auckland in a unique and interesting way to both leisure and corporate guests. Boutique style and elegance will be strong features of the hotel in keeping with its origins,” he said.
Eden Crescent Hotel Auckland, MGallery by Sofitel is located close to Auckland harbour, Parnell, Britomart, Queen Street, Shortland Street and the Vector Arena offering extensive leisure activities, upmarket shopping, corporate offices and event venues.