Minor Hotels’ Avani Queenstown Set To Redefine New Zealand Escapes With Premium Lifestyle Hospitality Experience

Written By: Ricky Acharjee

Ricky Acharjee

I am travel writer at Travel And Tour World with 3 years of experience covering global tourism, aviation, hospitality, and destination news. Dedicated to accurate reporting and compelling storytelling, Ricky explores the trends, innovations, and developments shaping the international travel industry while delivering engaging insights for travellers and industry professionals.

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August 5, 2026 11:20 PM |

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Minor Hotels is set to bring a new era of lifestyle hospitality to New Zealand as Avani Queenstown prepares to open its doors in September 2026. The new premium hotel will introduce the Avani brand experience to Queenstown for the first time, combining modern comfort, stylish design and authentic local connections in one of the country’s most iconic tourism destinations.

The opening will mark a major milestone for Avani’s growth in New Zealand, making Avani Queenstown the brand’s flagship hotel in the country and its second property after Avani Auckland Metropolis Residences. The development highlights Minor Hotels’ continued expansion across Australasia as demand grows for contemporary hotels that offer more than traditional accommodation.

Avani Queenstown Brings A New Lifestyle Experience To New Zealand

Avani Queenstown represents a significant step forward in Minor Hotels’ regional strategy, strengthening its presence in one of the world’s most recognised adventure and leisure destinations. The new property has been created for modern travellers who want comfort, flexibility and meaningful experiences connected to the destination they visit.

Unlike conventional hotels focused only on overnight stays, Avani Queenstown will deliver a lifestyle-driven concept where guests can relax, socialise and experience the spirit of Queenstown. The hotel will combine international hospitality standards with the unique character of the region, creating a space where visitors can enjoy both adventure and relaxation.

The property’s arrival comes at a time when travellers are increasingly searching for hotels that provide personalised experiences, wellness opportunities, social spaces and strong connections with local culture.

Major Redevelopment Transforms Former Resort Into Modern Hotel

The new Avani Queenstown has been created through the transformation of the former Oaks Shores Resort. The property has undergone an extensive redevelopment and repositioning programme to evolve from a serviced apartment-style accommodation offering into a complete lifestyle hotel.

The redesign introduces Avani’s contemporary global identity while respecting the natural beauty and character of Queenstown. The new concept focuses on creating a balanced guest experience with comfortable rooms, flexible public spaces and areas designed for interaction.

The redevelopment reflects a wider shift in the hospitality industry, where travellers increasingly value hotels that feel connected to their surroundings. Avani Queenstown aims to offer a stay that feels both international and locally inspired.

Lakefront Location Showcases Queenstown’s Natural Beauty

Situated along the Queenstown lakefront, the new hotel will offer guests an exceptional setting surrounded by some of New Zealand’s most dramatic landscapes. Queenstown is internationally recognised for its mountains, lakes and outdoor experiences, and the hotel has been designed to complement this natural environment.

The interiors will feature modern design elements combined with natural materials and locally influenced details. The approach will create a warm and welcoming atmosphere while reflecting the destination’s distinctive landscape.

The hotel will provide a peaceful retreat for leisure travellers while also serving visitors seeking adventure experiences, including skiing, hiking, water activities and exploration of the wider Queenstown region.

Social Spaces And Dining Experiences At The Heart Of The Hotel

Avani Queenstown will focus strongly on creating shared spaces where guests can connect, relax and enjoy memorable moments. The hotel will feature a variety of areas designed for dining, entertainment and social gatherings.

Visitors will be able to unwind after a day of exploring Queenstown, including enjoying cosy evenings by the fireplace following winter activities. The hotel will also provide flexible event spaces suitable for private celebrations, business gatherings and special occasions.

A major feature of the property will be Six to Midnight, an all-day dining venue designed to become a popular destination for both hotel guests and local residents.

The restaurant will celebrate fresh seasonal ingredients while offering globally inspired dishes. Its dining experience will change throughout the day, beginning with breakfast and lunch before moving into afternoon high tea, après-ski gatherings and evening meals.

With its flexible concept, Six to Midnight aims to become more than a hotel restaurant by creating a lively social hub within Queenstown.

Wellness And Fitness Facilities Enhance Guest Stay

Wellness will form an important part of the Avani Queenstown experience. The hotel will introduce AvaniSpa, providing guests with a dedicated space focused on relaxation, recovery and wellbeing.

The property will also feature AvaniFit, a modern fitness facility designed for travellers who want to maintain their health and exercise routines while away from home.

These wellness facilities reflect changing travel trends, with more visitors looking for hotels that support both physical and mental wellbeing during their journeys.

By combining relaxation, fitness and lifestyle experiences, Avani Queenstown aims to create a complete stay experience that meets the expectations of today’s international travellers.

Strengthening Minor Hotels’ Australasia Expansion

The opening of Avani Queenstown will further strengthen Minor Hotels’ growing presence across Australasia. The launch follows the recent introduction of Avani Mooloolaba Beach Hotel on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast and the continued development of Avani properties across key destinations.

Together, these hotels represent Avani’s strategy of expanding across urban locations, coastal escapes and resort destinations while responding to rising demand for modern lifestyle hospitality.

Queenstown’s global reputation as a premium tourism destination makes it an ideal location for Avani’s New Zealand flagship. The new hotel is expected to attract international visitors, domestic travellers and experience-focused guests looking for a combination of comfort, adventure and authentic local connections.

With its contemporary design, lakefront setting, wellness facilities and unique dining experiences, Avani Queenstown is positioned to become a major addition to New Zealand’s hospitality landscape when it opens in September 2026.

“Avani Queenstown introduces a premium lifestyle offering to one of New Zealand’s most dynamic tourism destinations. Combining a standout lakefront location with Avani’s design-led approach, the hotel delivers a contemporary guest experience that reflects how travellers increasingly want to stay, connect and experience a destination,” Hooley said.

James Billing, Area General Manager for New Zealand at Minor Hotels, highlighted that the new hotel launch demonstrates Queenstown’s ongoing transformation into a thriving destination that attracts visitors throughout the entire year.

“Queenstown has evolved into a destination that offers much more than seasonal travel,” Billing said.

“We’re excited to introduce Avani Queenstown to a market that continues to attract visitors year-round, offering a new way for travellers to experience one of New Zealand’s most iconic destinations.”

Avani Queenstown marks the brand’s second hotel presence in New Zealand, following the success of Avani Auckland Metropolis Residences. The opening further expands Avani’s footprint across the Australasia region, building on the recent launch of Avani Mooloolaba Beach Hotel on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast. Together, these properties highlight Avani’s strategic growth across vibrant city locations, scenic coastal escapes and resort destinations, meeting the rising demand for modern lifestyle stays that combine comfort, design and authentic local experiences.