Eichardt’s Private Hotel, a renowned heritage property, welcomes the winter season with a magnificent transformation, offering guests refreshed interiors and new extraordinary experiences. The iconic luxury hotel, nestled on the shores of the famous Lake Wakatipu, has undergone extensive refurbishments across the entire property, including private apartments, ensuring its position as Queenstown’s most prestigious destination.
Since its establishment in 1861, Eichardt’s Private Hotel has been recognized as the country’s most acclaimed private hotel, offering an exclusive selection of meticulously curated suites, opulent penthouse apartments, and a remarkable three-bedroom residence. The recent refurbishment of the four luxury private apartments is awe-inspiring. Each apartment has been adorned with a floor-to-ceiling makeover featuring freshly painted walls, plush New Zealand wool carpets, and luxurious bedding. The updated lounge area boasts an elegant fusion of soft cream and neutral tones, accentuating the dark living room furniture and stone firebox. The sunroom showcases a captivating contrast, with its sizeable wooden-framed window against the dark flooring and grey stone walls.
The Penthouse, a crown jewel of Eichardt’s Private Hotel, now offers guests a beautiful exterior deck, perfect for post-ski relaxation and alfresco dining. The deck has a barbecue area and newly stained furniture, complementing the barrel hot tub. From this vantage point, guests can savour unparalleled views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Meanwhile, within the original building, the first floor’s staircase and hallway have been renovated and fitted with plush new carpeting, enhancing the hotel’s timeless charm.
Eichardt’s Private Hotel has remained open throughout the refurbishment process, a testament to its commitment to hospitality excellence. The hotel’s new atmosphere proudly showcases New Zealand materials and highlights the craftsmanship of local artisans, with New Zealand-made cabinetry and other bespoke elements beautifully integrated throughout the property.
In addition to the physical upgrades, Eichardt’s Private Hotel has expanded its focus on guest experiences, introducing a captivating array of new activities. The hotel has forged a partnership with Over The Top, Queenstown’s premier helicopter tour company, to offer guests exclusive itineraries showcasing iconic South Island highlights, including remote locations that were previously inaccessible. Over The Top’s state-of-the-art helicopters provide a serene and spacious flying experience, allowing guests to indulge in the ultimate luxury adventure.
Eichardt’s Private Hotel presents the re-entry of its 80-foot yacht, Pacific Jemm, for guests seeking aquatic adventures, following a light refit. The yacht is available for private events, half-day excursions, and full-day escapades around the majestic Lake Wakatipu. With an impressive range of equipment and amenities, the Pacific Jemm is the perfect setting for intimate weddings, corporate gatherings, and thrilling expeditions, enabling guests to immerse themselves in the lake’s natural splendour.
Kylie Hogan, General Manager of Imperium Luxury Collection, the parent company of Eichardt’s, expressed her excitement about the refurbishment’s timing, coinciding with the first entire winter ski season post-pandemic. She remarked, “This is a very exciting time for Eichardt’s as we continue to preserve a beautiful and timeless 150-year-old building while showcasing the Imperium brand’s luxury experiences. The collaboration with local craftsmen and New Zealand’s finest suppliers has truly elevated the hotel, positioning Eichardt’s as one of Queenstown’s most extraordinary luxury offerings.”
Eichardt’s Private Hotel extends its legacy of unparalleled luxury to two exceptional dining establishments. The Eichardt’s Bar, an intimate haven featuring a fireplace, tantalizing tapas-style dining, and locally inspired cocktails, invites guests to indulge in a cozy ambience. The Grille by Eichardt’s combines New York City bistro elegance and French brasserie charm. As part of the refurbishment, Eichardt’s sister brand, The Spire Hotel, and its acclaimed No5 Church Lane Restaurant and Bar have also undergone a soft refurbishment. The eagerly anticipated relaunch of No5 Church Lane is scheduled just in time for the upcoming ski season.
To discover more about the rejuvenated Eichardt’s Private Hotel and its unparalleled offerings, please visit their official website at eichardts.com.
Written by: Jill Walsh