Revolution in New Zealand’s Budget Hotel Sector as Formule 1 Takes off at Auckland Airport

    150 150 Daniel Fountain
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    The opening of Formule 1 Auckland Airport on the 29th August heralded a revolution in New Zealand’s budget hotel sector.

    The launch of the first new-build Formule 1 in New Zealand is part of a major new accommodation and hospitality complex at the airport that also includes fast-food outlets, a bar, and mobile phone store. The 125 room Formule 1 and the rest of the complex have been developed by Auckland International Airport.

    Formule 1 is Accor’s purpose-designed budget brand that is already present in countries across Europe, South America, South Africa and in Australia. The brand is also set for major expansion in Asia.

    The hotel will provide the ultimate in reliable, contemporary accommodation at the highly affordable rate. There are also double, twin and quadruple share rooms, making the hotel ideal for couples, groups and families. In addition there are five large special-access rooms.

    The hotel features Formule 1’s new Cocoon concept room. The rooms are more stylish, more restful room with soft colours, rounded edges and soothing lighting, as well as extra storage space. Facilities include flat screen TVs with extra channels, wireless internet and a strong focus on sustainability, the Cocoon Room won Best Interior Design at the European Hotels Design Awards and represents a real metamorphosis for the brand, which was first introduced in 1984. Other in-room facilities include quality bedding with duvets, ensuite bathroom, individual air-conditioning and a work table. Rooms are completely sound-proofed.

    The Formule 1 offers an inexpensive breakfast buffet, with more substantial meals available during the day from the various outlets in the complex, including the Szimpla Gastro Pub, health food café, and coffee shop. There is parking for up to 70 cars.

    Within a few hundred metres of the hotel there is a huge supermarket, a number of additional fast food outlets, a bank, New Zealand Post and a camper van hire centre.

    The hotel is managed by Accor, New Zealand’s largest hotel group. The Formule 1 Auckland Airport increases Accor’s New Zealand network to 32 hotels.

    Daniel Fountain / 05.09.2011

    Editor, Hotel Designs

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