Travel boost: Rydges adds a new-build hotel in Tauranga, New Zealand
Located just 50 metres from Tauranga’s waterfront promenade at 45 The Strand, the new-build hotel will strengthen the region’s accommodation offering, supporting growing demand from both leisure and business travellers while providing a contemporary destination in one of New Zealand’s fastest-growing cities.
Revealed at the 2026 Aotearoa Hotel Industry Conference and Exhibition in Christchurch this week (Aug 11-12), EVT Hotels and Resorts will operate the hotel under its Rydges brand, following its selection through a highly competitive operator appointment process that recognised EVT’s proven track record in hotel management and delivering hotels that reflect and celebrate their local communities.
Tauranga, meaning ‘place of rest or anchorage’ in te reo Māori, continues to experience significant population and economic growth.
Positioned in the centre of the city and servicing both the flourishing visitor economy and New Zealand’s largest commercial port, Rydges Tauranga is set to become a key hospitality destination for the region.
“The commencement of construction is an exciting step forward for this project and for Tauranga,” said EVT Hotels and Resorts Director of Development, Peter Hill.
“We’re looking forward to bringing the Rydges brand to the city and creating a hotel that delivers strong commercial outcomes while reflecting the character, energy and spirit of the local community.
“Tauranga is one of New Zealand’s most dynamic growth markets and we’re pleased to be partnering on a development that will help meet increasing demand for quality accommodation, conferencing and hospitality experiences.
Upon completion in late 2028, Rydges Tauranga will feature 158 modern rooms, including spectacular harbour and city views, a signature restaurant and bar, and flexible, multi-purpose conferencing and exhibition spaces covering four rooms to deliver events of all scales.