Waterfront Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour officially opens

High-end travellers heading to New Zealand's largest city can look forward to a top-notch hotel option with the full opening of the Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour, in the modern waterside Lighter Quay area of town.

After a rocky history as the Westin and then an independent brand, the Sofitel has actually been running under its current management for several months, but the Sofitel is now officially open for business.

The hotel's 172 luxury bedrooms and suites -- all with balconies, full floor to ceiling windows and "oversized bathrooms" containing separate rain showers -- will be refurbished between now and the end of the year, so be sure to ask for one of the newest rooms when you book.

Also on offer in each room: the plush Sofitel MyBed to get some rest and a personal espresso machine when it's time to wake up.

Food and beverages promise to live up to Sofitel's French roots, with the Sabrage champagne bar, signature waterfront restaurant Lava Dining, and 24-hour room service.

Around the hotel's waterfront location, you'll find a 20-metre indoor lap pool, a fitness centre and, from August, the SO Spa.

You can even opt to arrive via yacht or water taxi at the Sofitel's boat pontoon.

Book and stay between now and 18 July and the Sofitel promises a NZ$50 (A$40) hotel credit to spend however you like in the hotel.

For more, check out the hotel's website.

John Walton

Aviation journalist and travel columnist John took his first long-haul flight when he was eight weeks old and hasn't looked back since. Well, except when facing rearwards in business class.