IHG turns up the vibe in Queenstown with hotel rebrand to voco

NEW ZEALAND – IHG Hotels & Resorts, in partnership with Pro-invest Group, has confirmed the conversion of the 227-room Holiday Inn Express & Suites Queenstown into the new voco Queenstown.

This strategic move will reposition the centrally located property into IHG’s more premium portfolio, with a comprehensive refurbishment set for completion and a grand reopening scheduled for late 2026.

A Fresh Look to Match a Prime Location

The conversion is a savvy play to better align the hotel’s excellent location, steps from the lakefront and key attractions, with a more upscale guest experience.

The renovation will introduce a host of enticing upgrades, including enhanced meeting spaces, a new private dining room, an outdoor dining area, and the debut of a dedicated Mozzarella & Co restaurant and bar.

These thoughtful enhancements are designed to broaden the hotel’s appeal to both business and leisure travelers, helping it capture stronger rates and ensure long-term success in this competitive tourist hotspot.

A Partnership Focused on Long-Term Success

IHG Australasia and Pacific Managing Director Matt Tripolone described the move as aligning “the right brand with the right asset, and the right location,” emphasizing a long-term strategy for sustainable returns.

Pro-invest Group Founder and Chairman Ronald Stephen Barrott highlighted the hotel’s solid track record and prime spot, noting that transitioning to the voco brand leverages IHG’s powerful systems and brand strength for the asset’s exciting next chapter.

Once transformed, the hotel will plug into IHG’s global sales network and the popular IHG One Rewards loyalty program, instantly expanding its reach to travelers worldwide.

A Key Note in IHG’s Growth Melody

This rebrand is a significant note in strengthening IHG’s premium footprint in New Zealand’s vital tourism market.

The voco brand is perfectly suited for this, known for its conversion-friendly model that allows for a stylish, capital-efficient refresh.

For visitors to Queenstown, it means a fresh, internationally recognized lodging option enters the mix, offering more choice and a elevated stay.

The deal also highlights a growing trend where owners partner with global brands to reinvent existing hotels through conversion, a smart way to maximize value from a great location and solid infrastructure without starting from scratch.

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