Hilton in talks for Christchurch property
Reports from New Zealand say that Hilton Hotels remains in talks on a Christchurch development, backed by tourism bosses saying the timing is right for more five-star establishments in New Zealand.
Hilton Hotels Corp Australasia vice-president Ashley Spencer confirmed the United States chain was in discussions with an unnamed group, with according to one industry player, a pair of Christchurch developers in talks with Hilton about the potential for a hotel near the corner of Colombo and Armagh streets opposite Victoria Square, with part of the corner site owned by The Canterbury Hospitality Group.
Christchurch and Canterbury Tourism CEO Ian Bougen told local media that it was about time the Garden City had an international name hotel of the standard provided in the South Island by Sofitel Queenstown.
According to Qualmark, New Zealand has 229 five-star accommodation establishments but the bulk of these are exclusive lodges or retreats rather than hotels.
Spencer said the Hilton group would “love” to be in both Christchurch and Queenstown as locations.
New Zealand Hotel Council Regional Chairwoman Penny Clark said there had been talk of Hilton coming to Christchurch for many years, and the chain would be a welcome addition but likely still some time away.
Report by the Mole from New Zealand sources
John Alwyn-Jones
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