Hilton's nautical new look

All 166 rooms were upgraded in the refurbishment process. Pic supplied.

A full refurbishment brings the heart of the harbour into Auckland’s Hilton Hotel

To celebrate Hilton Auckland's 15th anniversary the hotel has been given a new lease of life, receiving a full internal refurbishment by renowned architectural firm Chada.

The firm was commissioned to introduce contemporary design elements to the hotel's facilities, guest rooms and restaurants to accommodate the increasingly diverse tourism market.

The renovations introduce a 'new look' modern nautical themed hotel, with the reinvention of the ground floor lobby area and Bellini bar - which offers the widest range of cocktails in Auckland.

The refurbishment brings the heart of the harbour into Hilton Auckland, shown through floor-to-ceiling windows to accentuate the nautically inspired decor.

"Both of our North Island hotels are welcoming many domestic, as well as international guests," says Roger Brantsma - general manager Hilton Auckland and Hilton Lake Taupo.
He says the improvements will help attract both business and leisure travellers in what will be a busy year for the hotel.

"Auckland is a hub for concerts and sporting events and this proves to be a sell-out for us. During 2017 we'll be home to The World Masters Games and the Lions Rugby Tour. Additionally the city's popularity as a cruise destination will continue to expand."

Other aspects of the Auckland lifestyle are reflected in the hotel's light-filled ambience - a warmth that resonates through the floor to ceiling views of the Waitemata Harbour in the lobby, FISH Restaurant and Bellini.

Stay in one of the hotel's harbour view rooms and the sense of being afloat is palpable, ferries pass by out the window and the view from the balcony is stunning. The other thing you notice is how quiet it is.

The hotel offers a respite from the hustle and bustle of Auckland - despite its commanding downtown location.

And with the acclaimed FISH restaurant and Bellini Bar downstairs many guests are choosing to dine and entertain in-house.

All 166 rooms were upgraded in the refurbishment process says Mr Brantsma.
"All our rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows with contemporary amenities providing the perfect place to unwind or catch-up on work."

Care has been taken to ensure the dining options also echo the aesthetic theme.

"The restaurants embody the heart of the harbour with fresh, kiwi inspired cuisine and superb harbour views.

"Fresh sustainable produce is the ethos behind the new FISH menu with dishes that celebrate both land and sea that embrace New Zealand produce."

Attention has also been paid to the burgeoning event sector.

"Our conference and event spaces have all been upgraded. They now feature designer breakout spaces; while the purpose-built conference floor boasts unrivalled views of the Waitemata Harbour."

The new space is versatile and can host both large and small groups - whether it's an intimate meeting for six, or a cocktail party for 700.

The refurbishment took 12 months and was completed in July.