In the heart of New Zealand’s largest city, InterContinental Auckland made a stunning debut in 2024 at the billion-dollar Commercial Bay lifestyle precinct, which houses the city’s latest upscale office, retail, social, and dining hub. Since opening, the 139-room luxury property has won global awards and stands tall as one of the nation’s best new hotels. To find out more, James Wilkinson checked-in and spoke to InterContinental Auckland General Manager, Ryan South.

InterContinental Auckland is popular on so many levels, from the location to the club lounge, design, rooms and food and beverage on offer. Tell us about your favourite things of the property.

A standout feature for me is our Club InterContinental. This space offers a perfect balance of exclusivity and comfort. Whether you’re here for leisure or business, the space is designed to elevate your stay with tailored experiences, breathtaking views of the Waitematā Harbour, and an ambiance that feels both inviting and refined.

From personalised check-ins to all-day refreshments and evening canapés, every detail has been thoughtfully crafted to deliver the ultimate in luxury.

Ryan, tell us about the stylish rooms and suites on offer, including the great views of Waitematā Harbour.

Our rooms and suites redefine modern luxury with their elegant design, luxury amenities, and breathtaking views of the Waitematā Harbour. Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the spaces with natural light, creating an inviting atmosphere to relax or recharge.

Each room is outfitted with Byredo amenities, offering a touch of indulgence, and each Suite features deep soaking baths for the ultimate unwind after a day of exploring Auckland.

The interiors blend contemporary sophistication with natural textures, echoing the beauty of our surrounding landscape. Whether you’re staying in a Classic Room or one of our stunning Suites (the Presidential Suite is my top pick), you’ll find plush bedding, smart technology, and intuitive touches that cater to all travellers, ensuring a seamless and unforgettable stay.

Tell us about the fantastic food and beverage on offer, which is some of the best in Auckland.

Our signature restaurant, Advieh, is inspired by the rich and vibrant flavours of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine, it’s a celebration of bold spices and carefully sourced local ingredients.

Our partner chef, Gareth Stewart, has made sure that each dish tells a story, blending contemporary techniques with the traditions of Middle Eastern gastronomy.

Advieh’s commitment to excellence has not gone unnoticed, with the restaurant proudly earning accolades such as a prestigious Hat and ‘Hotel Restaurant of the Year’ title at the 2024 Cuisine Good Food Awards, cementing its place as one of Auckland’s top dining destinations.

Beyond Advieh, the culinary opportunities continue at Commercial Bay. Just steps from the hotel, you’ll find over 40 local and international food vendors, featuring everything from specialty coffee to lively bars and waterfront restaurants. With a diverse range of cuisines and renowned chefs at the helm, you’ll never be short of exceptional dining options.

What’s your x-factor at InterContinental Auckland?

Our x-factor is undeniably our people. Their passion, dedication, and commitment to excellence are what truly set us apart. Every team member, whether in front of guests or behind the scenes, plays a vital role in delivering the seamless, personalised service we are known for. It’s this collective energy, passion, and attention to detail that leave a lasting impression and define the InterContinental Auckland experience.

Another key x-factor is our prime location. Located at the prestigious 1 Queen Street and as part of the vibrant Commercial Bay precinct, we are surrounded by endless possibilities. Commercial Bay features over 120 luxury fashion and beauty retail stores, eateries, restaurants, and bars, offering the perfect destination for dining, relaxing, shopping, and enjoying a night out, all set against the stunning backdrop of Auckland’s Waitematā Harbour.

How important is the loyalty, particularly given the global popularity of IHG Rewards?

Loyalty is at the heart of everything we do at InterContinental Auckland, especially as a newly opened hotel. IHG One Rewards connects us with a global community of travellers who trust our brand to deliver exceptional stays time and time again.

For us, loyalty goes beyond a points system—it’s about fostering meaningful relationships through consistent, world-class service. We are truly honoured that so many guests have already placed their trust in us to create unforgettable experiences, and we’re proud to see them returning. Recognising and rewarding their loyalty is a priority as we continue to build lasting connections.

Favourite things to do in the local area?

Auckland offers something for everyone. Within the city, you can explore vibrant shopping precincts like Commercial Bay, stroll along the waterfront, wine and dine your way around the city or visit galleries and museums.

But if I’m honest, I’m all about looking for a bit of adventure. My dream day would be heading out of the city to surf at Muriwai or sailing on Auckland Harbour. It’s this seamless mix of urban energy and outdoor adventure that makes Auckland such a special and dynamic destination.

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