Money Well Spent Leads to Rewards for Holiday Inn

Media Release for immediate use: Thursday 8 October 2009

Holiday Inn City Centre Christchurch has been awarded a Qualmark 4 Star Plus rating, following a significant refurbishment of the hotel.

Holiday Inn City Centre Christchurch General Manager Brian Tinworth says he’s extremely proud of the hotel’s new Qualmark rating, which provides an independent assessment of the high levels of fittings and service provided by the hotel.

“This is a significant improvement on our previous 3 Star Plus rating We have moved two category ratings, which places us in a better leadership position among other Christchurch hotels,” he says.

“It’s great to receive this level of recognition from Qualmark, particularly of the hotel’s extensive upgrade and attractive value proposition for guests.”

The extensive refurbishment of Holiday Inn City Centre Christchurch by local firm Dalman Architecture Limited is close to completion, with further renovations and changes planned for the future.

Hotel owner Philip Carter says the current economic climate has seen other businesses delaying future investment, but he’s bucking this trend.

“We’ve spent over $2.5million upgrading the hotel so in our opinion it’s now superior to other establishments with a similar Qualmark rating,” he says.

“We’re really pleased with the result and are sure visitors and locals will be as well.”

Holiday Inn City Centre Christchurch’s lobby, bar and mezzanine floor have undergone a complete transformation, featuring modern furniture, artwork and lighting.

“As a keen supporter of local artists, I’m excited to be able to showcase a variety of New Zealand artwork and lighting. When you enter the hotel your eyes are automatically drawn to a Trubridge design that creates a separate area between the lobby and bar. It really does give the hotel a point of difference from its counterparts.”

The accommodation has also been upgraded - neutral tones are used in 120 guest rooms, featuring new beds, bedding, furniture and artwork. Each of these rooms also has a 32-inch LCD TV, in-room safe and high-speed broadband access.

Brian Tinworth says when you stand in one of the renovated rooms you would never know you are in the heart of a cosmopolitan city.

“The triple glazing gives you a real sense of peace and tranquillity. You can’t hear a thing from outside. It was very important for us to ensure that while our guests are staying in the city centre, they still get a great night’s sleep. But just as importantly, it reduces the hotel impact on the local environment by retaining heat and cooling.”

The new Qualmark rating follows Holiday Inn City Centre Christchurch’s recent acceptance for the Qualmark Silver rating for Responsible Tourism Operations.

“We take our commitment to the environment and community very seriously by managing waste, energy and water, and maintaining a strong involvement with community projects,” adds Mr Tinworth.

ENDS

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