I know this first hand after a recent visit to Aotearoa. As soon as I mentioned I was staying at the new Soho Hotel, I was inundated with questions.
“Why did they build it there? What’s it really like?”
So, I decided to find out the answers to these questions and spoke to Soho Hotel’s General Manager, Duncan Mackenzie (pictured above).
Q: Who is behind the Soho Hotel project?
A: Soho Hotel Auckland is owned and developed by New Zealand’s IPG Corporation, a family-owned business spearheaded by Dennis Parbhu and his son, Rishi.
They have personally managed every aspect of the hotel’s development, from design to branding, infusing their passion into every detail.
This dedication is especially evident in the hotel’s standout features, like the entrance lighting and the tulip chandelier in the ballroom, which Rishi designed in honour of his mother, Chhaya Parbhu, a talented floral artist.
Q: It’s an interesting location. What are your thoughts on the pros and cons of this?
A: We often get asked why Mount Roskill was selected as the location for Soho. The straightforward answer is that the owners identified Mount Roskill as the exact centre of the city.
The hotel is positioned midway between the airport and the CBD, making it ideal for corporate travellers attending conferences and meetings, with just a 15-minute drive to the airport. It’s also convenient for leisure guests attending events at Eden Park, Mt Smart and Trusts Arena.
Those with connections in the city fringe will appreciate our proximity to everything, plus we have ample valet car parking so there’s no need to worry about finding a parking spot.
Q: What does the hotel offer that perhaps other hotels don’t?
A: Soho’s standout features include spa rooms with private balconies and hot tubs, a pillarless ballroom perfect for gala events and an expansive rooftop area currently under design, with plans to launch next year.
We’re also excited to unveil a double-level, seven treatment room day spa with an onsen hot tub, which is expected to open in early 2025.
Q: What kind of customer is the hotel looking to attract?
A: As a four-star boutique property, Soho appeals to leisure guests seeking a premium urban retreat with spa amenities, as well as local corporate clients looking for a convenient location outside the CBD for business.
Being the closest hotel to Eden Park, we’re an ideal choice for event-goers. Some may even find us a great alternative to airport hotels due to our easy access to the motorway leading to the airport.
Q: What does the hotel offer in terms of services/food and beverage on site?
A: Our on-site dining options are a major drawcard for locals. Tiger Bar & Restaurant serves Asian-fusion cuisine with highlights like Korean fried cauliflower, salmon crudo, pork belly bao buns, market fish with chili red butter and Matcha Tea-ramisu.
Q: How has business been since the property opened?
A: Winter has been challenging for the hotel industry across New Zealand, but Soho has been warmly received by the meetings and events market, with steady conference bookings.
The local Auckland community is excited to have new dining options in the area and our location on a main arterial route means Aucklanders can easily stop by for a coffee or a meal.
Feedback from international guests using Soho as a base to recover from jet lag before exploring further has been particularly positive.
www.soholuxuryhotels.com
