AVANI Hotels & Resorts Set to Launch in New Zealand

Bangkok, May 2017: AVANI Hotels & Resorts, currently with a portfolio of 18 hotels and resorts in 12 countries across Asia Pacific, the Middle East, Africa and Europe, has announced the acquisition of the Metro Suites business in Auckland, New Zealand.

In a deal worth over NZD 11 million, the Metro Suites business currently operates in the luxury 40-storey tower and will be transformed through a major room refurbishment programme. Upon completion in October 2017, the property will be rebranded as Metropolis AVANI Residences, signalling the AVANI brand’s debut in New Zealand.

Alejandro Bernabe, Group Director AVANI Hotels & Resorts, said, “We are delighted to reach agreement with the Metropolis body corporate to secure this hotel business in the very strong Auckland hotel market, as well as launch our AVANI brand into New Zealand.

“Metro Suites presented itself as a compelling acquisition opportunity to expand our foothold within the Asia Pacific region, and we look forward to introducing the AVANI brand into this market later this year following a significant refurbishment programme.”

Located in Auckland on New Zealand’s North Island, the 370-key property was built in 1999 at a reported NZD 180 million and occupies a prime CBD position in the ‘City of Sales’ – the country’s largest and most populated city.

Auckland is renowned as New Zealand’s leading urban hub, while still retaining the splendor of the country’s remarkable natural landscape, fusing scenic harbours, breathtaking volcanic cones and lush rainforest.

The soon-to-be Metropolis AVANI Residences is within easy walking distance to the vibrant waterfront precinct and positioned in close proximity to some of Auckland’s most popular cafes, eateries and entertainment venues, including Vector Arena and Sky Tower.

Launched in 2011, AVANI offers all the details that matter, blending genuine hospitality and modern lifestyle features with a passion for design.

Each of the property’s one and two bedroom apartments will be transformed as part of the revitalisation programme. Rooms will feature spacious living and dining areas, well-equipped kitchens and laundry facilities, and will offer stunning views over the city skyline, harbour and beyond. Leisure facilities include a 22-metre heated swimming pool, indoor and outdoor spas, a sauna, gymnasium with male and female facilities, and steam room.

AVANI Hotels & Resorts is part of Minor Hotels which already has a presence in New Zealand through the Oaks Hotels & Resorts brand where it currently operates two resorts in Queenstown.

-Ends-

About AVANI Hotels & Resorts

AVANI Hotels & Resorts is the vibrant upscale brand from Minor Hotels. Offering relaxed comfort and contemporary style in city and resort destinations, AVANI was launched in response to an increasingly influential group of discerning travellers who appreciate stylish design and excellent service, but also demand great value. The brand currently has 18 properties in operation in Thailand, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Malaysia, the Seychelles, Mozambique, Botswana, Lesotho, Namibia, Zambia, the United Arab Emirates and Portugal, with a pipeline of further openings in Australia, Asia and the Middle East. MH has plans to grow the brand across Asia, the Indian Ocean and the Middle East.

W: avanihotels.com

About Minor Hotels

Minor Hotels (MH) is an international hotel owner, operator and investor currently with 154 hotels in operation. MH passionately explores new possibilities in hospitality with a diverse portfolio of properties designed intelligently to appeal to different kinds of travellers, serving new passions as well as personal needs. Through our Anantara, AVANI, PER AQUUM, Oaks, Elewana, Tivoli, Four Seasons, St. Regis, Marriott and Minor International properties, MH operates in 24 countries across Asia Pacific, the Middle East, Africa, the Indian Ocean, Europe and South America.

With dynamic plans to expand existing brands and explore strategic acquisitions throughout opportunistic markets, MH pursues a vision of a more passionate and interconnected world. For more information, please visit www.minorhotels.com.

For media enquiries, please contact:

Jane Warburton

PR Director – AVANI Hotels & Resorts

E: