Heritage, Queenstown, South Island

rooms

The lovely centuries-old schist stone and cedar wood building is beautifully complimented by the 175 sumptuous and newly refurbished rooms which are among some of the largest in Queenstown. All boast magnificent views along with private balconies from which to sit and soak it in. Choose from the luxurious en-suite deluxe rooms or the larger bedroomed suites which come complete with their own kitchenettes. All rooms have super plush beds, up to the minute entertainment systems and complimentary fluffy bathrobes.

facilities & activities

Once you've finished drinking in the view from your window – and that may take a few days – then the gorgeous facilities at the hotel will occupy the next few. Hit the gym, float in the heated indoor/outdoor pool in the fresh alpine air or relax in the spa and enjoy the peaceful, friendly atmosphere. However, it won't be long before the heady attractions of this 'world class' adventure playground come calling.

Queenstown is lucky enough to enjoy four distinct story book type seasons. From fresh spring, to a temperate summer, to a blaze of colour in Autumn, to perfect snowfall in Winter, there are endless opportunities for fun and adventure. While it has managed to retain its charming alpine feel, it is also the birth place of the ultimate in adventure bucket list. Choose from bungy jumping, helicopter flying, sky diving, river rafting, swinging from canyons or take the Shot Jet for a wild, literally breathtaking, jet across the lake. Ride world class cycling routes (some accessible only by gondola) or go skiing at some of the best fields in the southern hemisphere. Discover the real Middle Earth by taking the iconic Lord of the Rings tour. Enjoy a spot of culture and history on the nostalgic 100 year old steam boat that pootles across the lake or hop on the Kingston Flyer, the evocative steam train between Kingston and Fairlight, on the southern edge of Lake Wakatipu. Find out about the rich history of gold mining that brought the area to life and head to the aptly named 'eighth wonder of the world' – Milford Sound - a stunning world heritage park. Staff at the hotel can advise you on bookings and are full of local information.

dining

Named after early settlers to the region, now legendary for their generosity, hospitality and pioneering spirit, Mackenzie's restaurant aims to capture the warmth and welcoming ambiance created all those years ago. Have a drink at the bar before dining al fresco on the sun drenched balcony, or nestle in by the cosy fire during the winter and choose from an a la carte menu complimented by the finest New Zealand wines. An extensive buffet breakfast is available (additional charge) that will fuel you for the day ahead. And if your senses just can't take any more, then room service is available 24 hours a day.

family

It's a great choice for a family stay, with family packages and plenty of family room options available.

Choose the Deluxe Family Room with its spacious open plan design, luxurious furnishings and a super king with two single beds. Or go for one of the suites which provide a home from home with their own kitchenettes, washing facilities, king sized beds that can also be split into two, additional sofa beds and balconies with stunning views. There is also the option of two bedroom suite (made by inter connecting two suites) if you'd prefer separate rooms and each king bed can be split into two singles along with two sofa beds – ideal for a family.

There is a kids menu available and Travel journals are handed out on arrival and you'll have no problem finding exciting adventures with which to fill them. With four family friendly ski fields to choose from, an under water observatory of the lake and any number of adrenaline packed activities such as the shotover jet, skyline luge, indoor and outdoor climbing, cycling and horse riding- then the only conundrum will be which to tackle first. Introduce them to the rugged history of the area by taking them panning for gold or dress up in costumes at the lake district museum. Or just take a trip on the lovely picturesque steam boat and paddle over the lake to see the day to day workings of a genuine operational country sheep station. And if that isn't enough you can even go and see the tufty emblem of New Zealand at the kiwi birdlife park.

The front desk is full of great advice and help. And if they've exhausted themselves then tuck them in and take advantage of the baby sitting service available.

location

The hotel is found just a 20 minute stroll outside of the centre of Queenstown and only a 13 minute drive from the International airport. A super shuttle service will meet your flight and can be booked in advance or the connectabus link from the airport operates a drop off every 15 minutes to hotels around the town. If you'd like to arrive in style, then the hotel will book a limousine to meet you to bring you right to the doorstep. And if you've arrived under your own steam then parking at the hotel is free.