Now when we talk about surprises upon check in, we usually refer to some additional perk, such as a room upgrade or a welcome amenity. This time, something extraordinary happened. I was originally booked to stay at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Queenstown, but when I arrived at the property for my check in, they had informed me that I was upgraded to the adjacent Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa. Funnily enough they asked if I was alright with this, and of course I gladly took up the offer.
The Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa is actually located outside central Queenstown, the adventure capital of the world. Getting from the hotel to the town centre is easy if you’re driving. The hotel also provides a complimentary shuttle service that follows a regular schedule. Otherwise, the water taxi service will also get you from the hotel to the town centre, and back.
A simple look at the hotel and one can tell that it’s fairly new. The main driveway is huge, great for accommodating guests who need more time to unload their bags upon arrival.
As a Hilton Honors Gold member, my reservation was pulled out quickly, and the staff reconfirmed that I was indeed upgraded from the DoubleTree property just next door. They mentioned that they were operating at almost full capacity at this time of the year. I was swiftly issued my keys.
Right next to the main check in area is a large seating area, with sofas overlooking the waterfront.
As I could handle my bags, I declined any help from the porters, and headed straight for my room. The room had a rather unique elongated layout, compared to the usual rectangular or square-like floor plan. The bed sat against the far end of the room, that was more than adequately lit by natural light through large windows in the day. An ottoman was also placed at the foot of the bed for convenience.
In front of the bed was the living area, with armchairs and a coffee table, facing a wall mounted television. Beneath the television was a fireplace, which I didn’t have to use during my stay.
Right next to the living area was a work desk set against the wall. This room could be accessed via an adjoining room, which is great for families who require two or more rooms.
By the entrance to the bathroom was the minibar and refrigerator. Notice the cute little kiwi soft toy that’s placed in every room. You can bring it home if you wish, but for a fee.
Another highlight of the room was the bathroom. It was huge, also with an elongated layout, with a separate bathtub and shower.
The sink area was also huge, with two sinks so that you won’t have to fight with your partner. There was also a towel rack right by the sink area.
The wardrobe was stocked with bathrobes, and the usual iron and ironing board. A safe was also provided to safekeep any valuables.
After settling in, I decided to tour the premises, starting with the gym. The gym had sufficient cardio equipment and some free weights. It tends to get a little packed in the morning so it might be wise to beat the crowd if possible.
There is a large indoor pool for guests, which is great particularly for the colder months.
Do try out the steam room and sauna too.
The exteriors also make for a nice stroll. For those who love playing chess, you’re in luck.
Here’s a view of the side of the hotel facing the waterfront.
The water taxi that I mentioned earlier will pick you up from this dock, which is really convenient for hotel guests.
Breakfast was complimentary for me due to my Hilton Honors Gold status. I was always identified by the little blue square on my table every morning. I felt that the staff made extra effort to attend to my needs, which is commendable.
The breakfast spread was quite impressive, with a wide selection of hot and cold dishes, and beverages as well.
Overall, I was very happy with my stay at the Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa. For a hotel chain like Hilton, it’s really the little things that matter the most, like housekeeping rearranging my toys and leaving lovely handwritten notes on my bed everyday. This will definitely be my first choice when I return to Queenstown in the future.
