Inside Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour's 'French luxury' makeover

Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour explains its French luxury 2020 reopening.
Photo credit: Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour

The Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour has given a glimpse at what to expect after its extensive recent makeover, including a new restaurant helmed by a Michelin starred chef.

The renovations hope to "reaffirm [the hotel's] French luxury and art-de-vivre heritage with contemporary elegance" with "striking designed spaces, bespoke experiences, privacy and a sense of discovery".

Set to reopen again October 19, the Sofitel initially opened in 2012 at the site which was previously the Westin Auckland Lighter Quay.

The hotel went into liquidation earlier this year amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

General manager Stephen Gould says the hotel "epitomises sophisticated charm for locals and well-travelled connoisseurs seeking an urban oasis with luxury boutique spaces and a discreet personalised experience." 

"We're proud to welcome locals and visitors to Auckland to journey through the hotel to experience its beautiful, elegant and stylish new-look."

The Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour, will officially reopen on 19th October 2020 after an extensive makeover that reaffirms its French luxury and art-de-vivre heritage with contemporary elegance.
Photo credit: Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour

Arriving guests can expect to be greeted with "elaborate ceiling art, rich Louis XVI inspired furnishings and bold modernist sculptures".

Restaurant La Marée, featuring chef Marc de Passorio, hopes to entice foodies with delicious New Zealand seafood and local produce with French culinary techniques. It offers indoor and outdoor waterfront seating.

Restaurant La Marée, Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour.
Photo credit: Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour.

Also new to the hotel is Club Millésime - which is described as a lounge retreat for "exclusive" breakfasts, afternoon tea, evening drinks and canapés - along with French Press, a café inspired by those in Paris and offering a wide variety of sweet and savory crepes.

Sabrage the champagne bar has had a zhuzh up and the Sofitel Spa, which exclusively offers French skincare line Biologique Recherche, also boasts a new look.

Bookings are being taken now for the newly reopened hotel.

Rooms at Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour.
Photo credit: Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour.