A national online travel agent poll that pulled in thousands of votes has named Rydges Hotels and Resorts as the number one hotel group in New Zealand.

The hotel chain which consists of five hotels across New Zealand, won ‘Best Hotel Group’ category at the TAANZ National Travel Industry Awards announced at a black tie annual event before 600 guests at Sky City Grand last weekend (Sep 30).

Rydges’ National Sales and Marketing Director for New Zealand, Danelle Ayers, credited the win to having a team that are extremely passionate about what they do, know how to have fun while they do it and can truly connect with people.

“It’s about being real and not taking ourselves too seriously, our aim is to assist travel agents to ensure their lives are as easy as possible and we do that by being flexible, knowing our hotels, being prompt on emails, picking up the phone and getting things done with a minimum of fuss – you could say it’s old school style,” she said.

“Rydges is committed to giving our guests the best possible experience be it through our special concept restaurants such as Portlander, The Cut and Bloody Mary’s, complementary Wi-Fi, our loyalty program PGR and of course staff,” said Norman Arundel, Director of Hotels, Event Hospitality and Entertainment.

“Event is also committed to investing in the New Zealand market with Rydges Wellington Airport and QT Queenstown currently under construction.”

James Wilkinson

Editor-In-Chief, Hotel Management