Eichardt’s Hotel Named Among World’s Best Hideaway

News Release from Eichardts Private Hotel
December 21, 2004

Eichardt’s Hotel Named Among World’s Best Hideaways

Eichardt’s Private Hotel in Queenstown has joined the ranks of the world’s best hideaways as named in the annual Grand Awards by prestigious tourism publication, Andrew Harper’s Hideaway Report. Released last week, the special annual Hideaways of the Year report names 24 of the world’s most exclusive properties as Grand Award winners. In a coup for the Queenstown region, the only other New Zealand property featured was Glenorchy’s Blanket Bay.

A Queenstown icon, Eichardt’s was originally built as fine accommodation in the gold rush era of the 1860’s. The building was sensitively and fully restored in 2001 following a community decision to save rather than demolish the historic property following almost devastating flood damage in 1999.

Reopened as a private hotel in December 2001, Eichardt’s once again provides the finest accommodation available offering five stylish suites and a peaceful, luxurious haven right in the heart of downtown Queenstown.

Manager Victoria Shaw is “absolutely delighted” with the award saying it was something all managers of top quality small hotels aspired to.

“The Andrew Harper Report commands huge respect in the accommodation industry. To be named one of his favourite places is very exciting.”

Tourism New Zealand Chief Executive George Hickton says such awards are vital in increasing New Zealand’s reputation and credibility amongst the Interactive Traveller®.

“The combination of the uniqueness of what New Zealand has to offer, our increasing profile offshore and the hard work put into providing world-class product by the New Zealand tourism industry really pays dividends when we receive accolades like this one.

“I would like to pass my congratulations on to both Eichardts and Blanket Bay. It is a significant achievement to be included in this list. ”

In true Andrew Harper style, Ms Shaw had no idea which guest was Andrew Harper or one of his representatives and had no idea that Eichardt’s had been visited or judged.

“Andrew Harper’s people always travel incognito, pay full rates and never let on who they are or what their agenda is which of course makes the award more meaningful.”

Billed as the connoisseur’s worldwide guide to peaceful and unspoilt places and luxury hideaways, Andrew Harper’s Hideaway Report is the ultimate authority on exclusive accommodation around the world.

“Distinctive country house hotels and resorts are judged for their all round comfort, non-commercial character and passionate commitment to personal service,” states the introductory letter to report subscribers. “…Ultimately we rely on the ‘Q factor’ – the intangible summary impression that instinctively separates the good from the truly enchanting.”

Ms Shaw was also delighted to note Blanket Bay was also named as a treasured hideaway.

“Blanket Bay is a superb property and manager Philip Jenkins and I often work together in marketing roles, it’s very exciting for us to be judged in the same league.”

About Eichardt’s Private Hotel

Eichardt’s Private Hotel is a member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World. Located on the shores of Lake Wakatipu in the heart of downtown Queenstown, Eichardt's sets its own standard for gracious, luxury accommodation. Five luxurious suites and plenty of private spaces offer peace, tranquillity and alpine splendour just steps from the bright buzz of Queenstown's vibrant café, dining, shopping and nightlife. For further information please visit the Eichardt’s website www.eichardts.co.nz

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