New Zealand's seven-suite Otahuna Lodge is being relaunched following a four-month renovation at a cost of "over a million," says a spokesperson for the hotel. Scheduled to debut May 1, the renovation includes the complete refurbishment of the seven suites and public areas, and a major overhaul of the 30-acre garden. "Basically the renovation added new furnishings, fabrics and artwork to the rooms, as well as focusing on improvements to the garden," said the spokesperson. The hotel, built in 1895, is regarded as the finest example of Queen Anne architecture in Australasia. American-born owners Hall Cannon and Miles Refo purchased Otahuna Lodge last year. The current effort follows major structural renovations conducted in 2003 by the hotel's previous owner. Otahuna Lodge is on New Zealand's South Island, 20 minutes from Christchurch. The special reopening rate through October 1 ranges from $490 to $910, based on double occupancy, and includes all food, beverage and laundry. The travel agent liaison is Hall Cannon. He can be reached at [email protected]. Although a new web site will be launched at the end of May, for now visit [www.otahuna.co.nz].
