Words by Carlie Tucker
If you're bound for the North Island, there's a good chance a stop in Wellington is on the books. This capital city calls to corporate travellers across the Tasman, welcoming them with open arms and plenty of quality hotels. It pays to pick the right stay though and with such a diverse selection, it can be difficult to narrow it down. Here's our top four for your consideration.
Image courtesy of tfehotels.com
Travelodge Wellington
For the budget-conscious business traveller that appreciates quality, this hotel ticks all the boxes. It's positioned just a five minute walk from the harbour at the centre of Wellington's city centre, with both corporate and leisure amenities at your fingertips.
The appeal goes beyond its ultra-convenient location, though, with 132 rooms offering four different configurations to choose from. Regardless of your room selection, you'll be treated to a number of standards to assure a comfortable stay. This includes a fresh and modern style, a comfortable bed, work desk, iron and ironing board and in-room safe. Upgrade yourself to a Harbour View room and you'll also be treated to a sweep of ocean views.
As far as hotel amenities go, there are no sacrifices here either. 24-hour reception, internet access, parking, fitness facilities and an onsite restaurant are all available. There are also conference and meeting facilities with capacity for up to 100 delegates. What's better, as this is a SmartSTAY hotel, when you book through your FCBT Travel Manager you'll also receive complimentary car parking, late check-out to 2pm and a complimentary bottle of wine waiting for you in your room on arrival.
Images courtesy of wellington.amorahotels.com
Amora Hotel Wellington
4.5-star style with everything a business traveller needs can be found at this central Wellington hotel. A superb location ensures prime positioning for getting to the office and many of the city's best sights. This includes Lambton Quay, Te Papa and Wellington's famous Cable Car. Though, the benefits of booking a stay here go beyond the exceptional location.
The hotel offers up 192 of the most spacious guest rooms and suites in the city. And, with Deluxe and Club Rooms, Junior and Club Suites and Studio Rooms, it's easy to find a stay that suits your style as well as your budget. All rooms feature harbour and/or city views along with modern fittings, comfortable beds and a designated work space. Each room also offers WiFi access. The Club Rooms are well worth considering if you're in town on business as they offer access to the exclusive CLub Lounge for complimentary refreshments and breakfast.
Guests will also have access to additional facilities designed for convenience and comfort. This includes an onsite spa, The Grill Restaurant and 11 different function spaces. The largest is capable of accommodating up to 300.
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Image courtesy of rydges.com
Rydges Wellington
Another quality stay that offers up incredible Wellington Harbour views, the Rydges Wellington is a top choice for business travellers seeking convenience and premium service. It too offers a fantastic location in the heart of the city centre, providing easy access no matter where you want to go. Lambton Quay is within walking distance as are Queens Wharf and Wellington Railway Station
Comprised of 280 rooms, you'll have your choice of 10 different rooms and suites. Each offers the comfort of a cushy bed, private ensuite, city or harbour views and host of business traveller-friendly features. This includes a Internet access, iPod docking station, dedicated workspace and a kitchenette area. 24-hour reception is also available as is a concierge and leisure centre with a fitness studio, spa, sauna and indoor lap pool. Dine onsite at the Portlander restaurant, or choose from the selection of nearby spots.
The Rydges Wellington is also a SmartSTAY hotel, which means all business travellers who book through their FCBT Travel Manager will receive complimentary WiFi, a 20% discount off hotel food and beverage (excluding breakfast, mini-bar and room service), late check-out to 12pm (if available) and complimentary room upgrade (if available).
Mercure Wellington Abel Tasman
Blending facilities appropriate for business and leisure travellers, this hotel is all about guest comfort no matter what brings you to Wellington. Along with star-rated service, it provides a perfect position in the heart of the city, with easy access to both corporate and leisure precincts. There is a swathe of top bars, restaurants and cafes nearby as well as a number of the city's iconic attractions.
There are just 73 rooms and suites, but that doesn't mean you won't have your pick. Choose from five different configurations ranging from Standard Doubles to the Prime Suite. Along with a comfortable place to lay your head, you'll also be treated to WiFi access, a work desk and morning newspaper. Beyond the rooms, there is 24-hour reception, photocopying and fax services, offsite gym access, and conference, function and event facilities. Dining is also available at the Bistro 169 Restaurant & Bar with menus for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
