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Hanmer Springs Hotel Hosts Community Concert to Benefit Local Health Centre
Hanmer Springs, NZ — Hanmer Springs Hotel, managed by CPG Hotels, is proud to support the Hanmer Springs Health Centre through a recent community fundraising effort that included a concert, which contributed to raising $2,000 for the purchase of two new wheelchairs for local elderly residents. On Mother’s Day, May 12, 2024, the Cathy Irons […]
6 Picton Eateries You Must Check Out in 2024
When you’re exploring Picton, the gateway to the breathtaking Marlborough Sounds, your taste buds are in for a treat. From fine dining with harbour views to cosy cafés serving up comfort food, this charming town has something to satisfy every palate. As a guest at The Picton Yacht Club Hotel, you’re already in prime position […]
Experience the Enchantment of Winter at Hanmer Springs Hotel
As winter’s final month envelops the Southern Alps, Hanmer Springs beckons with its captivating charm. Nestled among snow-capped mountains and lush forests, Hanmer Springs Hotel is the perfect winter retreat. Whether you crave adventure or relaxation, this alpine haven offers an unforgettable experience. Picture yourself wandering through frost-kissed forests, soaking in hot thermal pools as […]
Explore Culinary Delights at CPG Hotels: Discover Isobels and The Chartroom
Isobels Restaurant at Hanmer Springs Hotel Nestled in the heart of Hanmer Springs, surrounded by luscious gardens and tall canopies, lies Isobels, the in-house restaurant and bar at the Hanmer Springs Hotel. Isobels offers an exquisite taste of Italy with a delightful local twist, making it a perfect dining destination whether you’re looking to dine alfresco on the patio […]
Greenlane Suites: Your Gateway to Comfort and Sustainability in Auckland
Nestled in the tranquil suburb of Greenlane, just minutes away from the heart of Auckland, lies Greenlane Suites—a haven of comfort and sustainability. With a recent upgrade to a QualMark 4-star hotel with a Silver Sustainability rating, Greenlane Suites is not just another accommodation option; it’s a testament to comfortability, convenience, and eco-conscious hospitality. Location […]
Things to Explore in Auckland This Easter
Looking for egg-citing Easter activities in Auckland? We’ve got you covered with our top picks for the long weekend! 🎉 Auckland War Memorial Museum Easter Egg Hunt: Dive into a thrilling egg hunt adventure at the Auckland War Memorial Museum. Explore the museum’s fascinating exhibits while hunting for beautifully decorated eggs hidden throughout the galleries. […]
Exploring Unique Conference and Event Spaces with CPG Hotels in New Zealand
Experience unparalleled conference and event spaces in New Zealand with CPG Hotels. With its stunning landscapes and vibrant locations, New Zealand is the perfect destination for hosting unforgettable events. CPG Hotels is a leading hotel company that offers exceptional venues to take your gatherings to new heights. Hanmer Springs Hotel Hanmer Springs Hotel is an […]
Summer Explorations: Unveiling New Zealand’s Top Family-Friendly Destinations
New Zealand’s picturesque landscapes and exciting outdoor adventures make it the perfect destination for an unforgettable family vacation. To help you plan your trip, we have put together a guide featuring the top destinations to visit. Get ready to soak up the sun and experience the beauty of this amazing country. 1. Dunedin: A Scottish […]
Top Family Summer Activities in Picton, New Zealand
Welcome to the hidden gem of New Zealand’s South Island, the charming seaside town of Picton. Nestled within the spectacular Marlborough Sounds, Picton is a haven for those seeking breathtaking landscapes, outdoor activities, and a touch of serenity. Your family’s summer adventure begins at the premium holiday destination, the Picton Yacht Club Hotel, [...]
The best things to do in Auckland this winter.
Auckland
Winter in Auckland may bring cooler temperatures, but it doesn’t mean that you have to stay indoors all season. With so much to do and see, Auckland remains a great place to visit throughout the year. Here are the top 5 things to do in winter in Auckland:
Visit the Sky Tower
The Sky [...]
Top things to do in Hanmer Springs
What are the top things to do and see in Hanmer Springs?
Hanmer Springs
Nestled among the impressive Southern Alps and majestic forests, you’ll find the picturesque alpine village of Hanmer Springs. A quaint little village, built around a hot mineral spring created by a fractured rock bed along the Hanmer fault. It [...]
What are Some of the Lesser-Known Gems in New Zealand?
What are Some of the Lesser-Known Gems in New Zealand?
New Zealand is well known for all of its awesome tourist destinations, but if you want to avoid the crowds, there are plenty of hidden gems just waiting to be explored. Here are a few of our absolute favourite lesser-known gems in New Zealand.
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5 Things Our Business Travellers Love About Our Hotels
5 Things Our Business Travellers Love About Our Hotels
Renowned for our award-winning, boutique hotels offering true Kiwi hospitality, we strive to provide our guests with everything they may need. When it comes to business travellers, those guests often have specific requirements that must be met to make their trip comfortable and efficient. Here at CPG [...]
Wellington’s Best Wine Tours
Wellingtons Best Wine Tours
The days are getting brighter and warmer, and Winter is finally at an end. What better way to celebrate the festive season than with a tasty wine tour for you and your friends! Below, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best wine tours for you to explore while [...]
Student Accommodation
Studying in New Zealand is so much more than an academic experience, it is a way to meet new friends, discover a different culture and open up a world of opportunity. Choosing the right accommodation option while you study is an important choice and can have an effect on your entire experience studying abroad. Therefore, [...]
CPG Hotels gives back to Health Workers.
Over the past few years, our health workers have been on the frontline and have stepped up during the COVID pandemic and numerous lockdowns. The Hotel Council Aotearoa (HCA) has partnered with the New Zealand Nurses Organisation (NZNO) and has gifted more than 300 room nights to its members who comprise nurses, health care assistants, kaimahi [...]
The Best Hidden Gem Golf Courses in NZ
New Zealand is home to some world-class golf courses. Beginners, intermediates, and pro golfers will not only love the stunning NZ scenery, but the challenge offered by their many unique courses. While there are the classics (think Tara Iti, Cape Kidnappers, and Paraparaumu Beach), some of the best hidden gem golf courses in NZ aren’t […]
Top five summer activities at Terrace Downs Resort
Summer at Terrace Downs Resort Terrace Downs resort boats a fantastic range of activities for you to enjoy, both on the property and a short drive from it! Summer only enhances the beauty of the high country! High Country Horse Adventures Experience the high country on horseback! Trek from Lake Coleridge Village and enjoy the […]
Top five summer activities in Hanmer Springs
Summer in Hanmer Springs In the warmer months, relaxation is guaranteed in Hanmer Springs. It is undoubtedly the best time to enjoy the sunshine of the summer season. If you want a quiet environment to relax and fresh air to breathe, come and visit Hanmer Springs Hotel. Go White Water Rafting Suitable for families and […]
Top five summer activities in Picton
Summer in Picton Picton Yacht Club Hotel is a premium holiday destination, with spectacular vistas over Marlborough Sounds, you’re just a short stroll to the Waikawa Bay Marina, ferry terminal and the picturesque Picton township. Hike or Cycle the Queen Charlotte Track Discover stunning forest, coastal and mountain scenery along the breath taking Queen Charlotte […]
Top five summer activities in Wellington
Summer in Wellington Located centrally in the lively Cuba Quarter, Willis Wellington Hotel is in the heart of Wellington’s cool café culture, and a short walk from the CBD. The perfect base for all your summer activities! Weta Workshop A short drive from Wellington’s city center, Weta Workshop crafts physical effects for some of the […]
Top five summer activities in Auckland
Summer in Auckland Come and visit Auckland this summer! Greenlane Suites offers great accommodation options for couples, families and friends. The central location means that you are in the heart of the city and close to all these fantastic activities! Waitemata Harbour Take a cruise out on the Harbour and enjoy the summer sunshine, fresh […]
CPG Hotels acquires signature Christchurch property
CPG Hotels, one of New Zealand’s largest privately-owned and operated hotel groups, is adding Fable Christchurch Hotel to its impressive portfolio, and is set to open its doors next month with a major refurbishment on the near horizon. Formally known as the Rendezvous Hotel Christchurch, the hotel will relaunch on Tuesday 16 November as Fable […]
New things to try during lockdown
There’s no better time to get creative in the kitchen! Our talented CPG Chefs have kindly handed over some of their best recipes for you to try at home. Channel your inner chef! Make one of our recipes below, post a pic on Facebook and tag us @cpghotels to be in to WIN A $100 […]
The Most Beautiful Places in New Zealand to Pop the Question
You have finally decided to propose, but you need to find the perfect spot to make it memorable. Luckily, New Zealanders are spoilt for choice when it comes to spectacular locations of beauty. So, whether you are the type of couple that would enjoy a private nature setting or an adrenaline-fuelled location, we have a […]
Five Exciting Things to Do in Auckland Over Winter
As Autumn winds down and as the days become cooler, you may find yourself spending much more time staying at home and trying to keep warm, but we want to make this winter the best yet. COVID-19 restrictions have loosened up across New Zealand, we’ve got to get back out there and make up for […]
Your Trans-Tasman Holiday Accommodation Sorted at CPG Hotels
On April 19th New Zealand finally rolled out the welcome mat for Australian arrivals as the trans-Tasman travel bubble began. While some of those travelling will be kiwis coming home to visit family and friends, many others will be holidaymakers looking to get out of Oz for a well-deserved break. If that’s you, you’re in […]
Best Geothermal Attractions In & Around Rotorua
Planning a trip to New Zealand’s geothermal capital? Rotorua City is best known for its geothermal activity, with several geysers, hot springs, mud pools and more dotted in and around the city. Whether you’re looking for a dramatic photo backdrop or want to soak your feet into a free foot bath, explore Rotorua’s natural wonders […]
Top NZ Summer Swimming Spots for 2021
This summer, New Zealand hotels aren’t filling up with the usual influx of tourists. Instead, domestic travel is picking up as Kiwis continue to support the local tourism businesses across the country. Even though the holidays are over, there are enough public holidays toward the front of the year for us to make the most […]
Top Holiday Locations for Kiwis This Summer
Top Holiday Locations for Kiwis This Summer With many international borders closed due to COVID-19, and a fortunate lack of community transmission of the virus within NZ (at the time of writing!), most of us Kiwis are getting set to staycation. Domestic tourism is expected to boom over the summer break here in New Zealand, […]
Top Five Things to Do on A Sunny Day in Auckland
Now that Winter is over and Spring is here once again, Auckland’s days are slowly starting to become clearer and brighter! As domestic travel in New Zealand begins to pick up in the wake of COVID-19, and Auckland is now open for travel again, we’ve seen an increase in interest for Auckland accommodation across the […]
Top 5 places to eat out in Auckland
Auckland City is one of the best places in New Zealand when it comes to eating out—rivalled only by Wellington City—and the restaurant choices are pretty amazing. There are plenty of things to do in Auckland, but if you’re looking to explore the food scene, our guide below is here to help! You can always […]
Top Attractions in Auckland for Your Staycation
Top Attractions in Auckland for Your Staycation Many Kiwis have had plans fall through now that international travel isn’t an option for the foreseeable future. So, why not enjoy a staycation here in Aotearoa instead? Currently, there are no restrictions on domestic travel for most New Zealanders, and that means there’s no reason we can’t […]
CPG Hotels’ major domestic tourism investment
CPG Hotel Group has such faith in the the domestic tourism industry, it is forging ahead with the launch of a new luxury boutique hotel brand As the country’s largest privately-owned hotel group, CPG Hotels, like the rest of the tourism sector, has experienced less than full occupancy rates and had to reduce its services […]
Teddy Bears on Queen Street
Fable Auckland, our premier Auckland accommodation location, has joined the nationwide teddy bear hunt to entertain children during the ongoing COVID-19 crisis. Spending time outside safely is important for everyone’s mental health during the lockdown period, and this will continue to be the case as we trial Level 3 restrictions together as a country in […]
What to Do in Auckland This Easter
Got your Auckland accommodation sorted, but still looking for things to do in Auckland this Easter weekend? Fortunately, we’ve rounded up a list of the top activities that will be on for Easter 2020 here in New Zealand’s biggest and most vibrant city. Read on to see them for yourself! 1. The Royal Easter Show […]
13 free things to do in Rotorua!
Rotorua is an awesome hotspot for things to do with a wide range of adventure, cultural and geothermal attractions. Everyone knows it’s a tourist destination and many also assume that means paying above and beyond to experience the best things there. But that isn’t the whole truth by any stretch of the imagination. As a […]
5 great places to eat near Greenlane
When staying at the Greenlane Suites guests enjoy the beautiful leafy suburb surroundings, sheltered from the hustle and bustle of the city. One of the great things about Greenlane is there are also plenty of attractions and amenities nearby, including some fantastic restaurants covering a variety of international cuisines. We’ve put together this list of […]
Things to do in Wellington: Our Top 10 attractions!
The nation’s capital is a fantastic hub of a culture and a place where things happen. It’s probably due to the fact that nothing can stay still in the Windy City, literally. Visitors are spoilt for choice when it comes to fun things to do and places to visit in Wellington and many of them […]
What to do in Dunedin – our Top 10 picks!
Dunedin is an amazing place to visit any time of the year. From the surfing in the summer to the beautiful colours of the gardens in the autumn to the snow-covered ground in the winter. With a city that absolutely jam-packed with things to do, we thought we’d put together a list of our favourites, […]
Matariki 2018 – the Maori New Year
Matariki signifies the Maori New Year and is the Maori name for a small cluster of stars known as the Pleiades that become visible during the winter months. Each year, events take place all across New Zealand to celebrate Matariki and this year, the Picton Yacht Club Hotel is supporting the Matariki Festival Picton by […]
10 fantastic day trips from Auckland!
Auckland is New Zealand’s largest city with a population of over 1 million people from a diverse mix of cultures with the city offering plenty of things to see and do. In saying this, New Zealand is one of those countries that’s great to explore and Auckland makes a great base for doing so with […]
The 2018 Saint Clair Vineyard Half
Always had a marathon on your bucket list but never felt quite ready for it physically or mentally? How about an option that is half the distance, set against an amazing backdrop, raises money for a good cause and is a great amount of fun? Sound a bit more like you? Then look no further […]
8 of the Best Movie Locations in New Zealand
New Zealand’s scenery is some of the most breath-taking in the world, a fact that hasn’t been missed by Hollywood’s biggest filmmakers. A large number of films have been shot here with Hollywood keen to take advantage of our natural beauty and cinematic surroundings. If you’re a movie-buff, there’s nothing more fun than seeing these […]
10 Best Beaches in New Zealand you need to discover
New Zealand is known as ‘The land of the long white cloud’ but it could just as easily be known as ‘The land of awesome beaches’ with 15,000km of coastline to boast. Suffice to say, you’ll have plenty to choose from but below are some of the best to prioritise during your stay! Gillespie Beach […]
Let’s Celebrate Chinese New Year!
Year of the Dog 2018 is the Year of the Dog according to the Chinese zodiac. … The Chinese Zodiac, known as Sheng Xiao, is based on a twelve-year cycle, related to an animal sign. These signs are the rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, sheep, monkey, rooster, dog and pig. Years of the […]
10 of Auckland’s Hidden Gems
The City of Sails is a great place to visit with so many notable attractions to pick and choose from. Being a tourist hotspot, the top sights are fairly well publicised so we thought we’d highlight a few lesser known marvels for those after something a little more Kiwi-casual. Point Chevalier Point Chevalier was one […]
9 of New Zealand’s Most Photogenic Places
When planning a trip to New Zealand the first thing you’ll probably pack before clothes, toiletries, sunscreen etc., is your camera. There’s no secret why, it’s a beautiful country. But the next step can often be a bit more challenging. Deciding where to go to take your awe-inspiring, liked-by-all, insta-famous snaps. To make this decision […]
10 Fantastic Events & Activities This Summer
With the first week of summer under wraps, temperatures sitting in the mid to high 20’s, and school finishing up for the year, we have compiled this list of 10 fantastic things to do in New Zealand over the festive season – shining a light on the amazing events and wonderful activities on offer throughout […]
Diwali Festival Auckland – the Festival of Light
Updated: 4 October 2017 One of the highlights of the annual events calendar in Auckland is the Diwali Festival – a celebration of Auckland’s vibrant Indian culture. This year the festival will be held over the weekend of Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 October and the main hub for the event will be in Aotea […]
McKayson New Zealand Women’s Open Golf
If you are going to be in Auckland on or around the weekend of 28 September to 1 October, then make sure you get yourself to one of Auckland’s newest golf clubs, Windross Farm. The newly constructed course located in Papakura will be playing host to the New Zealand Women’s Golf Open. Whilst New Zealand […]
Exploring the Marlborough Sounds
With spring just around the corner it’s time to get planning some weekends away. It won’t be long until the clocks move forward and the nights get lighter. It’s one of our favourite times of the year to go exploring the Marlborough Sounds. Whether it’s hiking through the native forest, exploring the sheltered coves, kayaking […]
5 reasons why you need to visit Rotorua this spring
As the nights start to get lighter and the daffodils begin to bloom, the winter gloom starts to lift all around New Zealand. The spring months are the perfect time to plan a little weekend getaway and Rotorua is a great place to visit at this time of year. With temperatures starting to rise, Rotorua […]
Visa Wellington on a Plate – a culinary delight
If you’re looking for something to do in August, might we suggest a little weekend jaunt down to Wellington (or longer if you can spare the time!). From the 11-27 August, the Visa Wellington on a Plate event will once again be taking over the city for two weeks. This winter extravaganza features over 100 […]
Our top 5 things to do in Auckland this winter will make you get out of the house
That’s right people – there is life outside of the warmth of your house and just because winter is now in full swing in New Zealand doesn’t mean you shouldn’t still get out and explore. New Zealand is about so much more than relaxing on the beach on a warm summer’s day and Auckland is […]
What to do in Dunedin this winter – our top 10
Dunedin is an amazing place to visit any time of the year. From the surfing in the summer to the beautiful colours of the gardens in the autumn to the snow covered ground in the winter. We absolutely love Dunedin in the winter months. It’s pretty cold down here but there is so much to […]
Rotorua – the adventure capital of the North Island
Whilst it might have a way to go to catch Queenstown as the adventure capital of New Zealand (and possibly the world!), there is still plenty going on in Rotorua for the thrill-seekers out there. Whether it’s bungy jumping, zorbing, white water rafting or maybe something a bit different like the Shweeb, Rotorua has a […]
Exploring the Wairarapa
The next time you’re down in Wellington and maybe looking to get out of the city for a day, look no further than the Wairarapa. This region has embraced wine and food in a big way and is a great place to head to sample some of New Zealand’s finest regional produce. From a gentle […]
The British and Irish Lions are here!
In case you have been living under a rock, Saturday marks the start of one of the most anticipated sporting events in New Zealand – the British and Irish Lions tour. It’s been 12 long years since the Lions were last in New Zealand and they will be itching to make a better impression this […]
Cheap Parking in Auckland CBD – sign me up!
Whether you are planning a weekend away or just a trip into the city to grab a bite to eat, parking can be a bit of a nightmare and it can get pretty expensive. If you are heading to the city after 5pm on weeknights or on the weekend, we’ve got a bit of good […]
The Queen City Gets A Grander Windsor
The glamour of the Art Deco era, when travelling in style meant monogrammed trunks, well-cut suits and dressing for dinner with fabulous gowns and jewels, has inspired Auckland’s latest five-star boutique hotel. Already occupying a much-loved heritage building in Auckland’s international retail precinct, the Fable Auckland is set to relaunch as a boutique five-star hotel […]
Rotorua Night Market
If you are staying at one of our two Rotorua hotels, then a trip to the Rotorua Night Market should be on your trip itinerary. Held every Thursday night (weather permitting), the Rotorua Night Market is one of Rotorua’s great local markets. Held In the heart of Tutanekai Street – Rotorua’s ‘Eat Street’, the market […]
5 ideas for Mother’s Day in New Zealand
That’s right everyone – Mother’s Day is coming up on Sunday 14 May so we hope this post isn’t the first time you’re starting to think about what to do! Just in case it is, we’ve pulled together a list of things you can do with your Mum this Mother’s Day in locations around New […]
UberEATS comes to Auckland!
Looking for some tasty food but can’t be bothered to leave the hotel room? Fear not! For anyone staying in one of our two Auckland Hotels, UberEATS has just made the whole ‘eat in or eat out’ debate a lot easier. If you are staying at the Fable Auckland or Greenlane Suites, you can now […]
Anzac Day events in New Zealand
Next Tuesday will signify the 101st Anzac Day as the country joins together to honour the soldiers who fought at Gallipoli and other conflicts in which New Zealand has been involved. The 25th April is a day when the whole country remembers those who have fought so bravely for their country – New Zealand sent […]
Things to do around New Zealand at Easter
With Easter fast approaching the schools due to break up for holidays in the next few days, it’s time to get planning some activities to keep them (and you!) entertained over the Easter break. Easter is a great time of year to get away and explore a new destination. Whilst we may be heading into […]
Wellington – the great outdoors
This month is activity month at CPG Hotels and Wellington is an awesome place to get stuck into lots of exciting outdoor activities. From horse trekking to mountain biking to surfing, Wellington has it all. With summer almost over (*cries a little*) now is the time to make the most of the warm autumn days […]
The World Masters Games comes to Auckland
Excitement is starting to build in and around Auckland for the World Masters Games which will be held in Auckland next month. For those who may not know, the World Masters Games is the world’s largest multi-sport event with over 25,000 participants from over 100 countries worldwide flocking to Auckland for the chance to take […]
Taieri Gorge Railway – a classic Kiwi railway journey
New Zealand is known for a lot of amazing things but its railways are not usually up there on the list. We don’t have a prolific railway network here in New Zealand however the ones we do have are pretty amazing. There are three major routes that most people have heard of: the Northern Explorer […]
Top 5 golf courses in Rotorua and around
In our series looking at some of the best places to play golf if you are staying at one of our seven hotels around New Zealand, we move to Rotorua. Rotorua is not as well known for its golf courses as it is for the geothermal attractions and adventures activities in the city but who […]
Top 5 Golf Courses in Wellington
Following on from our recent post looking at the top 5 golf courses in Auckland we move on to Wellington and take a look at some of the best golf courses to play down in the lower North Island. Golfing breaks are extremely popular in New Zealand whether you are a local or an international […]
Top 5 Golf Courses in Auckland
New Zealand is one of the best places in the world to play golf. With the second highest number of golf courses per capita in the world behind only Scotland, there is no shortage of options when it comes to playing golf, especially in Auckland. If you are staying at one of our two Auckland […]
Skyline Rotorua – a proper family day out!
If you are looking for a proper family day out, there are few better places in New Zealand than Skyline Rotorua. Whilst Rotorua is jam-packed with geo-thermal attractions, these can sometimes get a bit tedious for the younger family members (and a bit smelly) so if you’re looking for something a bit more adventurous, then […]
Pasifika Festival – Auckland
One of the hottest events on Auckland’s Summer Calendar is the annual Pasifika Festival. This year promises to be even bigger and better than ever as Pasifika celebrates its 25th birthday. This FREE event is held every year in Western Springs Park and attracts huge crowds to watch over 220 performances. This year organisers are […]
The Wellington Wine and Food Festival
A post shared by WGTN Wine & Food Festival (@wgtnwineandfood) on Feb 21, 2017 at 12:33pm PST The Wellington Wine and Food Festival is rolling into town this weekend and it promises to be a cracker! This festival is a celebration of the very best of local food, wine and craft beer all set in […]
Things to do in Dunedin – laid back or action-packed – it’s up to you
Dunedin is a really cool place to visit and one that is often overlooked by Kiwis and international visitors alike. Those who miss it off their itinerary do so at their own peril! Whether you are looking for a nice relaxing weekend away, or you want to get out and explore the beautiful landscapes of […]
Top 5 things to do on a sunny day in Auckland
It seems as though summer has finally arrived in Auckland! After a windy start to 2017, February has been a beautiful month up in New Zealand’s biggest city with plenty of sunshine and some calm days out on the water. Aucklanders and visitors alike have been making the most of the warm and sunny weather, […]
Picton – a laid back sort of place
If you are looking for a laid back holiday where you can chill out, relax and unwind from the stresses of day to day life, then Picton is the ideal destination. Nestled away at the top of the South Island, Picton is a beautiful coastal town which sits in an ideal location for exploring some […]
Taihape Gumboot Day – a truly unique Kiwi experience
New Zealand has a culture all of its own. It’s something we’re super proud of and rightfully so – there are so many things that make New Zealand special and one of those things our small communities found in cities, towns and villages from North to South. If you are lucky enough to be in […]
Rotorua Bike Festival – bring on the fun!
The Rotorua Bike Festival is New Zealand’s biggest biking event and for 10 days, the whole city is taken over by biking enthusiasts from the hardcore downhillers to the long distance road bikers. This year’s event will take place from the 10-19 February and we can once again expect hundreds to descend on Rotorua […]
Marlborough Food and Wine Festival 2017
There’s no doubt about it. The Marlborough Food and Wine Festival is one of New Zealand’s biggest and best festivals and it is coming up in just over one week! This is the one that the wine connoisseurs and foodies mark in their diary as soon as the date is announced and with good reason. […]
Road tripping from Picton to Christchurch – the alternative route
If you are staying with us at the Picton Yacht Club Hotel before making your way south towards Christchurch and beyond, there are a few things you need to know following the powerful magnitude-7.8 earthquake that hit the South Island and lower North Island in November. Since the earthquake hit, the road heading south down […]
Picton Maritime Festival 2017
One of our favourite events on the Picton events calendar is the annual Picton Maritime Festival. This year the festival will be held on Saturday 21 January and it promises to be bigger and better than ever. This will be the 12th year the festival has been held down on Picton’s foreshore and the Picton […]
Auckland International Buskers Festival 2017
Coming up at the end of January is the annual Auckland International Buskers Festival. This awesome four day event is a highlight of the annual Auckland events calendar and one that we recommend getting down to if you are in Auckland over the last weekend of the month from the 27-30 January. This year’s Buskers […]
Latin Fiesta Auckland – get down and dance!
If you love to dance then the Latin Fiesta in Auckland could be right up your street. Part of Auckland huge Summer in the Square series of activities, the Latin Fiesta is going to bring the very best of Latin America right here to the City of Sails. Grab your sombrero, shake your maracas and […]
Celebrating Christmas in New Zealand
This post is more for our friends and visitors from the Northern Hemisphere and hopefully gives you some great tips for enjoying Christmas in New Zealand. If you hadn’t already gathered, Christmas down in the Southern Hemisphere is a bit different to the Christmas you are used to back home. For a start, none of […]
Where to get your Christmas fix!
With Christmas just over one month away, it’s that time of year when towns and cities across the country start to get into the festive spirit with their Santa Parades, Christmas Markets and more. If you’re staying with us in one of our hotels in Auckland, Rotorua, Wellington, Picton or Dunedin over the coming weeks, […]
Coastella Music Festival returns to Wellington
Coastella Music Festival will return to Wellington Kapiti Coast in February after an unbelievable inaugural event in 2016. Held at the Southward Car Museum, Coastella is a music festival to span the generations. Whilst the theme for this year’s event is toe-tapping music from Ireland, the festival will showcase pretty much every generation of music […]
Toast Martinborough – celebrating 25 years
One of New Zealand’s most popular wine, food and music festivals will be celebrating its 25th birthday this year so there is no better time to book your trip to Wellington for the annual Toast Martinborough festival. Join thousands of other people in celebrating the 25th anniversary of this iconic wine, food and music festival. […]
Dunedin Craft Beer Festival
You know summer is on the way when the beer and wine festivals start coming around and at the beginning of November, Dunedin will play host to the third annual Dunedin Craft Beer and Food Festival and it promises to be bigger and better than ever. Held at the Forsyth Barr Stadium on Saturday 12 […]
The ASB Auckland Marathon
One event on the calendar that many people look forward to is the annual ASB Auckland Marathon. For those who live in Auckland, we are reminded about the event all year round with countless runners sporting their official Auckland Marathon t-shirt whilst they run past us on the street but we definitely get what all […]
Okere Falls Beer Festival
‘What’s that you say, a beer festival? Don’t mind if I do!’ We love that summer is just around the corner as that means one thing – the start or beer and wine festival season! There is nothing quite a like a proper New Zealand beer or wine festival and the Okere Falls Beer Festival […]
Marlborough Anniversary Weekend – Things to do
At the end of the month Marlborough will finally get their long awaited turn for a long anniversary weekend. It seems a long time ago that Wellingtonians just across the Cook Strait got their long weekend anniversary celebration way back at the end of January, but let’s hope it’s worth the wait with warmer weather […]
Diwali Festival of Lights – Wellington
Following hot on the heels of the Auckland Diwali Festival is the Diwali Festival of Lights in Wellington. Held at the TSB Bank Arena down on the Queens Wharf, India’s best loved festival will once again be returning to the capital in what promises to be another spectacular event. Kicking off at 1.30pm on Sunday […]
Waiheke Island – Lonely Planet Top 5 destination for 2016
Waiheke Island is a hidden gem just a 35 minute ferry ride from downtown Auckland and this year was voted by Lonely Planet as one of the top ten destinations to visit in 2016 – they came in at #5 on that prestigious list. As the Lonely Planet say, “Waiheke is a utopia of coves, […]
Volcanic Air – a great way to see New Zealand
Rotorua is an awesome place and we love it. There is so much to see and do here that you will never be short on ideas and opportunities to try something new. Whether you go and explore the geo thermal wonderland at Wai-O-Tapu, relax in the thermal waters of the Polynesian Spa or maybe whizz […]
The Auckland Brick Show – a LEGO® lover’s paradise!
New Zealand’s largest fan-created LEGO® display is coming back to Auckland this September and it’s an event not to be missed for the whole family. LEGO® has truly stood the test a time – a toy as popular today as it was 10, 20, 30 years ago and beyond. One thing that has kept LEGO® […]
Auckland’s North Shore
If you have got a car and fancy a day out from the hustle and bustle of down town Auckland, a trip across the Auckland Harbour Bridge to the North Shore is a great way to spend a few hours with lots of things to do whether you are looking for a nice beach, a […]
The Bledisloe Cup comes to Wellington
The Bledisloe Cup is coming back to Wellington for the first time since 2013 and it promises to be a thrilling game in this year’s three test series. New Zealand have completely dominated Australia, and have won the past 13 series, a run they will be looking to carry on this year. Overall, New Zealand […]
The World of WearableArt® Awards Show
The World of WearableArt®, known as WOW®, is a renowned international design competition that attracts hundreds of entries from all over the world. Finalists compete for over $165,000 in prize money plus internships with leading creative companies such as Weta Workshop. Every year the event is held in Wellington and this year the Awards Show […]
Top 5 places to eat out in Wellington
We know how tricky it can be to pick a great place to eat out when you arrive in a city for the first time, or even if you have been a couple of times already and can’t remember all the good places to grab a bite to eat. We decided to ask all our […]
Top 5 Walks in Rotorua
Rotorua is an absolute hotbed of activities from the high adventures of mountain biking and zorbing to the ultimate relaxation in the thermal waters in places like the Polynesian Spa. If you are looking for something that falls somewhere in between the two, then there are plenty of walking tracks in the area that will […]
Lakeland Queen Cruises – see Rotorua in style
With so many things to see and do in Rotorua, your senses can sometime be a little overwhelmed with the various options for things to do. If you’re looking for something a bit more sedate away from the action of the luge and the mountain biking then we have the perfect thing for you. The […]
Cape Palliser – a stunning drive
We often get asked for recommendations for places to head out for a day trip when people come to visit us at the Willis Wellington. After exploring the vibrant city, people want to get out and explore the local area and one of the top tips we give people is to take the coastal road […]
Marlborough Wine Tasting – the perfect weekend away
If you are looking for an exciting weekend away and you love your wine, then a trip to Picton should be on your list of things to do this year. Situated at the top of New Zealand’s South Island, Picton is a great place to base yourself for a number of trips and one of […]
The International Netball Quad Series comes to Auckland
International netball at its best is coming to Auckland this month in what promises to be a fascinating International Quad Series involving New Zealand’s Silver Ferns, Australia’s Diamonds, the Spar Proteas from South Africa and the England Roses. Double header at the Vector Arena The tournament kicks off with a double header at Auckland’s Vector […]
Fortune Theatre – an Otago legend
If you are looking for a genuine and authentic theatre experience, the Fortune Theatre in Dunedin is New Zealand’s southern-most theatre and the only one to be found in Otago and Southland. Situated in the beautiful and historic Trinity Methodist Church building which dates back to 1869, the Theatre was established in 1974 and moved […]
Zealandia – a day out with nature
Zealandia is one of New Zealand’s most exciting tourist attractions and is situated right in the heart of Wellington, so close to the CBD that you couldn’t believe a place like this existed. As soon as you enter this, the world’s first fully-fenced urban ecosanctuary, you are transported a million miles away from the hustle […]
Polynesian Spa – the ultimate place to relax in Rotorua
Whilst Rotorua is an awesome place to come for some high adrenaline adventures with no shortage of things to do for thrillseekers, there is a much more relaxing side to their geothermal city. One of the best things to do on any trip to Rotorua is to spend a morning, afternoon or even the full […]
Visa Wellington on a Plate is back!
That’s right people – the much anticipated Visa Wellington on a Plate event is back and this year promises to be bigger and better than ever. Held over two weeks every August, the Visa Wellington on a Plate event has quickly grown to become one of New Zealand’s biggest food festivals with a wide range […]
New Zealand Fashion Week hits Auckland
New Zealand Fashion Week is almost upon us and it promises to be another fantastic week of star-studded activity with designers from across the globe descending on Auckland to showcase their latest ranges. The event will be held at the ANZ Viaduct Events Centre from 22-28 August and this year’s line-up promises to be bigger […]
Loaded Tough Guy & Gal Challenge hits Rotorua
Rotorua is the home of the Tough Guy & Gal Challenge and the event will be coming back to the city once more at the end of August for two days on the 20th and 27th August. The course at Rotorua is probably one of the toughest and most exhilarating in the country and is […]
WWE is coming back to Auckland!
For the first time in five years, WWE wrestling is coming back to New Zealand with an awesome live event. WWE Live is about to hit Auckland’s Vector Arena on Wednesday 10 August and it’s the first time many of New Zealand’s WWE fans will get to see these stars of the biggest show on […]
The Rat Pack comes to Auckland!
For one night only, the Rat Pack are going to be bringing the Vegas vibe to Auckland in what promises to be an amazing night of live music and entertainment. The Auckland Philharmonic Orchestra will be supporting singers Tim Beveridge, Tama Waipara and Esther Stephens as they recreate the music made famous by Frank Sinatra, […]
Beervana returns to Wellington…mmmmm beer
New Zealand’s most popular beer festival is coming back to Wellington and this year promises to be bigger and better than ever. Celebrating its 15th year, Beervana is a celebration of New Zealand craft beer and has been attracting some of New Zealand’s brightest stars in the beer brewing world over the past 15 years. […]
The eruption of Mt Tarawera
As we all know, Rotorua is the geothermal capital of New Zealand but one event sticks in the mind of all who visit the city in its vast history of volcanic activity: the 1886 eruption of Mt Tarawera. This is perhaps one of the most famous volcanic eruptions in New Zealand’s history, certainly of […]
The Auckland Domain
The Auckland Domain (or The Domain as it is more commonly known) is Auckland’s oldest park and is a spacious and diverse piece of green space in the heart of the bustling, cosmopolitan city centre. Located in Grafton just a short 5 minute drive from downtown Auckland or a 30 minute walk, the park is […]
The Interislander Ferry
The Interislander Ferry is an iconic part of any journey around New Zealand. For many, it’s the gateway from the North to the South Island or vice versa and a necessary trip for thousands of visitors and Kiwis every year. Departing from Wellington in the North Island and dropping you in Picton in the South […]
Grease Arena Spectacular comes to Dunedin!
That’s right everyone. The Grease Arena Spectacular is coming to Dunedin and it’s going to be awesome! The More FM Arena is going to be transformed for this three night musical extravaganza and you can still be a part of it! Tickets are still on sale and it promises to be a night you won’t […]
CPG Hotels win AGODA.com Awards
The Fable Auckland Auckland and Willis Wellington Hotel, both part of the CPG Hotels family, have recently won two awards from OTA AGODA.com. In recognition of our partnership and working relationship. Agoda only give 8 amongst all hotels, hostels, and motels in the whole of New Zealand, and we are very proud to have won […]
CPG Hotels – News Update…
CPG Group own the below properties and in May 2015 developed a management company called CPG Hotels to manage the properties. In the last 8 months they have grown to 7 owned and managed properties. Since taking over the management: Complimentary unlimited wifi has be installed at all properties. Rebranding is in process with regards to […]