Hospitality Business Magazine

JW Marriott Auckland unveils first 40 rooms plus meeting and event space plans

JW Marriott Auckland has announced the first 40 rooms of its multimillion-dollar refurbishment project are now available to book, marking a key milestone in its reincarnation of the former Stamford Plaza Hotel on Albert Street site.

General Manager JW Marriott Auckland, Girish Talreja says: – “We are beyond delighted to launch our first renovated 40 rooms, and give local and international guests of the hotel an elevated taste of what is to come, as we continue to reveal the different stages of our transformation throughout the rest of the year.

“Our renewed concept allows for mindful travellers to nourish their body and soul and connect with the beauty that Auckland’s city has to offer.”

The fully reimagined guest experience is expected o be complete by November 2024.

All 286 rooms and suites will embrace a contemporary design inspired by New Zealand’s natural beauty, while the welcoming lobby will foster connection on arrival. Enhanced functionality and ambiance will be developed in the five versatile conference and event spaces featuring state of the art technology, including multiple LED screens and in-house audio visual consultant.

As part of the renovation journey, the hotel will this year also introduce five dining venues for guests to nourish their soul and body, including a modern all-day dining “Kiwi brasserie” with an alfresco area, a Teppanyaki restaurant, and two bars.

Marriott Bonvoy members can look forward to an exclusive Executive Lounge, completing the diverse culinary experiences. This transformative project reaffirms JW Marriott Auckland’s dedication to creating mindful experiences for their guests and solidifying its position as a premier destination in Auckland’s vibrant heart, just a few minutes walk to iconic Auckland attractions, the Sky Tower, Ferry Terminal, and Commercial Bay shopping precinct.

Singapore’s renowned O37 design studio has unveiled a sophisticated reinvention of the first 40 rooms, drawing inspiration from New Zealand’s natural beauty and iconic landscapes, the design seamlessly blends organic textures with contemporary elements.

Warm wood tones and a calming monochromatic palette creates a sense of serenity, while accents of black metal and nature-inspired art subtly echo Auckland’s volcanic heart. The contrasts, dubbed “beautiful collisions,” elevates the hotel to a new level of refined elegance, creating a haven amidst the Auckland CBD’s vibrant energy. Guests can experience JW Marriott Auckland’s transformation for themselves with an exclusive Elevate and Enjoy opening offer enabling them to be among the first to experience 40 beautifully renovated Superior Rooms, boasting luxurious comfort.

Curating a mindful experience for every guest’s needs, the room features a multipurpose marble table for dining or desk for working, and the ability for the chaise seating to be transformed into an additional bed.

“Our renewed concept allows for mindful travellers to nourish their body and soul and connect with the beauty that Auckland’s city has to offer.” 

The next phase of the journey will be the continued renovation of the remaining 246 rooms and suites, new meeting and events  spaces, two restaurants, two bars and an Executive Lounge. The entire renovation project is set to be completed by the end of November 2024.

Meeting & Event Spaces

JW Marriott Auckland, has also announced the renovation of its meeting and event spaces as part of its multimillion dollar renovation project, with its JW Ballroom (400 max capacity), and multifunctional Auckland Room (150 max capacity) open for bookings now for events taking place from April onwards.

Artists’ render of the new JW Marriott ballroom with a capacity for up to 400 guests.

JW Marriott says this ambitious undertaking is just the beginning, as the hotel plans to renovate three additional spaces starting August 2024. From intimate gatherings to grand celebrations for up to 400 guests, JW Marriott Auckland aims to provide a diverse range of options for various occasions, including weddings, gala dinners, seminars, awards nights, and conferences.

The renovated meeting spaces will exhibit a harmonious blend of natural textures and contemporary elements, featuring warm wood tones and a soothing palette to create a serene atmosphere. Boasting nearly 50 square metres of LED walls and dynamic lighting that adapts effortlessly to guests’ needs, the spaces are designed to be the epitome of sophistication in the heart of Auckland.

Notably, JW Marriott Auckland has partnered with Microhire, making it the first hotel in New Zealand to leverage their audiovisual technology. With expert support and an in-house audiovisual technician, the collaboration aims to elevate the event experience, offering cutting-edge technology for a memorable and seamless occasion.

Girish Talreja, General Manager of JW Marriott Auckland, expresses pride in the launch of the renovated function spaces, providing a hub for local and domestic guests to connect. He notes, “These spaces are the first in New Zealand to offer Microhire’s state-of-the-art audiovisual technology.”

Geoff Townend, Regional General Manager of NSW & NZ at Microhire, shares the excitement of the partnership, stating, “Microhire is delighted to partner with JW Marriott Auckland and further grow our Marriott relationship as we expand into the New Zealand market.”

Aside from the new venues, JW Marriott Auckland offers signature nourishing food and beverage packages to support mindfulness and promote mental and physical health during meetings and events. The hotel is committed to incorporating neuro-inclusive practices in all Marriott-hosted customer meetings and events of 250 people, including dedicated quiet rooms, sensory tools, accommodations, and resources.

The enhanced meeting and event spaces mark another milestone in the full hotel renovation, which includes refurbished guest rooms and suites, overhauled lobby, and revamped food and beverage options, including a modern all-day dining ‘Kiwi brasserie,’ an elegant Teppanyaki restaurant, JW bar, Lobby Lounge, and an exclusive Executive Lounge for Marriott Bonvoy members.