It’s back to the future for Scenic Hotel Auckland as it nears the completion of an ambitious two-year transformation to reveal itself as the new, premium brand, Airedale Boutique Suites.

Effective 03 February, Scenic Hotel Auckland will become part of Scenic Hotel Group’s newly created ‘Legacy Collection’, and will be re-branded as Airedale Boutique Suites. The ‘Airedale’ name reflects its central city location on the corner of Airedale and Queen Streets in the heart of Auckland’s cultural and entertainment district and will have a familiar ring to those who have known the location and hotel over a period of time.

Scenic Hotel Group Managing Director, Brendan Taylor says the delivery of the 99-room Airedale Boutique Suites is, “testimony to Scenic Hotel Group’s investment in the future of its people, the places it serves and the wider world.” Working on the restoration of a landmark that has for nearly a century been known as the MLC Building, and is now a New Zealand Historic Places Trust Category 2 listed building brought with it a new set of challenges which Brendan says were offset in equal measure with the sense of pride and purpose that being engaged in such a project brings.

The result of the restoration and refurbishment transformation is a sense of modern nostalgia. Hotel General Manager, Melissa Alexander describes this as being, “Where local history and heritage are intertwined with fresh ideas that reflect future expectations of our guest experience. We have achieved this throughout the hotel with the bringing together of old and new through an inspired design that acknowledges and celebrates the humble glamour of the buildings art deco past together with modern style and comfort.”

Melissa continues, “The resulting experience for guests is one of mindful luxury, that delivers a premium experience with thoughtful ease. We are unpretentious and provide that beautiful blend of authentic hospitality that New Zealand is renowned the world over for.”

Guest enhancements focus on delivering a calming design to ease the stresses and demands of a faster way of life by providing a tranquil resting place. New double glazing throughout most rooms serves to quieten the hustle and hum of the street to give new levels of peace within guest rooms. Premium in-room beverages offer the indulgence to enjoy within the comfort and privacy of your room, while all around you are touches and initiatives designed to make the world a kinder, gentler place to be. These speak to Scenic Hotel Group’s sustainable tourism and hospitality mandate and includes initiatives such as reduced printed collateral, smart technology, and putting people and the planet first.

Airedale Boutique Suites defines its accommodation by character, shape and service level. Classic and Signature rooms are ‘hotel studio rooms’ while Premier Studio Suites offer increased amenities and size. The accommodation offering will be complete with the opening of Airedale Boutique Suites Apartments later in 2020.

Technology is also employed to excellent effect from the moment guests walk through the doors with the option of a self-serve check-in lounge or concierge assisted check in. Smart features flow throughout the hotel bringing the best of both worlds, with a sense of nostalgia through design coupled with the essentials of modern life to make for a seamless and enjoyable experience be it for business or pleasure.

Sitting across from Auckland’s Town Hall, Aotea Square and the Edge Entertainment Centre, Melissa says it was essential also to reflect the vibrancy of this area and a part of that is a swanky new dining offering that promises to please the most discerning of palates.