DoubleTree by Hilton Debuts in New Zealand

DoubleTree by Hilton and Hilton Worldwide today announced the opening of the brand's first property in New Zealand –DoubleTree by Hilton Queenstown. Formerly known as the Kawarau Hotel and managed by Hilton Worldwide, the stylish 98-room hotel is set in the heart of bustling Kawarau Village, convenient to Queenstown International Airport and just a short drive or water taxi ride from the center of Queenstown, popularly known as "The Adventure Capital of the World."

"We are proud to mark our brand's entry into New Zealand with this exemplary hotel and to delight guests with the award-winning service culture for which the DoubleTree by Hilton name is known – starting with our signature warm chocolate chip cookie welcome and continuing throughout the guest's stay," said John Greenleaf, global head, DoubleTree by Hilton. "The addition of DoubleTree by Hilton Queenstown to our fast-growing global portfolio further underscores our brand's commitment to delivering our upscale, full-service hotel offering in all key markets and gateway cities around the world."

Guests at DoubleTree by Hilton Queenstown will enjoy contemporary guest rooms featuring fully-fitted kitchenettes with an oven, microwave and fridge to provide all the comforts of home. Many rooms offer sweeping views of Lake Wakatipu and feature an adjoining lounge area decorated in a modern alpine style.

"Australasia is a key growth market for DoubleTree by Hilton, and the introduction of the brand into New Zealand marks a significant milestone as we continue to expand our offering to travellers in the region," said Ashley Spencer, vice president of operations, Australasia. "At DoubleTree by Hilton, we know that the little things mean everything when it comes to great travel experiences, and we look forward to delighting guests at DoubleTree by Hilton Queenstown with the services and amenities that have made the brand beloved internationally."

In addition to the signature chocolate chip cookie welcome and upscale services and amenities offered at the hotel, guests will enjoy other DoubleTree by Hilton brand exclusives, including an assortment of gourmet in-room tea and coffee choices, a refreshing array of body care products and an industry-recognized service culture built around the idea of CARE, which stands for Create a Rewarding Experience for guests, team members and the community.

As a participant in the Hilton HHonors guest loyalty program, Hilton HHonors members visiting DoubleTree by Hilton Queenstown will enjoy an introductory offer of 5,000 bonus HHonors points for stays of three or more nights, valid for bookings made through December 9, 2014, and for stays through February 9, 2015.

To celebrate the opening, and coinciding with World Kindness Day, hotel team members will hit the streets on Thursday, November 13 to spread DoubleTree by Hilton's global "Cookie Care" campaign with cookie giveaways to thousands of unsuspecting consumers – all in hopes of making their days a little brighter, as DoubleTree is the hotel brand where "the little things mean everything."

DoubleTree by Hilton Queenstown is located at Kawarau Village, 79 Peninsula Road, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand. For more information or to make a reservation, travellers may visit queenstowndoubletree.com or call +64 3 450 1650.

Media can access additional information about DoubleTree by Queenstown at queenstowndoubletree.com. For more news about DoubleTree by Hilton hotel openings, visit: news.doubletree.com.